It is the most common question of all after a hair transplant. Your hair feels stiff, your scalp itches a little, and all you want is a proper wash. The answer is usually sooner than you think. According to the clinic's routine, the first wash happens around day 3. But be clear about one thing: your clinic's own instructions always come first. Follow them, and use this as a complement.
The first wash
Around day 3 you can usually start washing carefully. Use lukewarm water, never warmer than 40 degrees. A weak stream is better than hard pressure. If the stream feels strong, hold your palm as a shield between the shower and your scalp.
Lather the shampoo in your hands first. Then gently press the lather on with flat palms. Never rub. Never scratch. The scalp is sensitive and the grafts are not yet properly attached.
How to rinse
Let the water run over your head instead of aiming the stream straight at the scalp. You can also fill a jug or a soft cup with lukewarm water and pour it slowly over your hair. It gives the same rinse without the pressure.
Let your head air dry, or dab carefully with clean paper towels. Avoid towels during the first four weeks. No friction at all.
The first weeks
For the first period, one word applies: gentleness. Feel free to wash daily if the clinic recommends it, but always with the same careful technique. The scabs that form should stay in place until they come off on their own. Do not pick. Do not massage.
You can read the full course of the aftercare, step by step, in our walkthrough aftercare week by week.
Choose a mild shampoo
The shampoo you use matters. A strong shampoo can dry out the scalp just when it needs calm the most. Lather Me Up is made for exactly this period. It cleanses without drying out, lathers softly and rinses out clean. The scalp is left in peace.
The ritual is simple. Lather in your hands, press gently, rinse by letting the water run over. Nothing more is needed.
Once the scabs have come off
Between day 7 and 10 the scabs have usually come off. Then the pressure can gradually increase, and after about five more days you can start massaging gently in the direction of the hair with your palms. After about four weeks you can go back to your regular shampoo if you like. Listen to your scalp along the way. If it feels irritated, slow down again.
The time frames here are general. Everyone recovers at their own pace, and your clinic knows your procedure. Their instructions always come first, and at the slightest doubt they are the ones to ask.
Soon the wash is just a wash again. Until then: low heat, low pressure, soft hands.