The first wash is the moment most patients dread, and it is simpler than it looks. Done properly it softens the crusts, keeps the scalp clean and does not disturb a single graft. Done impatiently it can cost you follicles.
When do you start?
Usually around day three, though follow the specific timing in your aftercare pack. Before that the grafts are at their most fragile and the scalp is left alone.
The technique
Work at the basin rather than in the shower, so nothing sprays directly onto the recipient area. Fill a cup or jug with lukewarm water, never hot, and pour it gently over the scalp from a low height to wet the area.
Apply the lotion or foam we have provided by dabbing it on with your fingertips, never your nails, and never rubbing or scrubbing. Let it sit for as long as your instructions say, typically several minutes, so the crusts soften.
Rinse by pouring again, gently and patiently, rather than blasting with a shower head. Pat dry with a clean towel using a dabbing motion, or let it air dry. Do not rub, and do not use a hairdryer on hot.
The first two weeks
Repeat daily, or as directed. As the days pass the crusts soften and lift away on their own; you should never pick or scrub them off. By around day ten to fourteen most crusting has cleared.
The donor area can be washed a little more normally after the first days, but still gently and without hot water.
What to avoid
Hot water, direct shower pressure on the recipient area, rubbing, nails, normal shampoo in the early days, dry shampoo, conditioner unless we have said otherwise, and vigorous towel drying. Also avoid letting soap or shampoo from the rest of your body run over the grafts in the shower.
Getting back to normal
Most people return to a normal shower and their usual shampoo after about two weeks, once crusting has cleared and we have confirmed you are healing well. Keep the water off very hot for a while longer, and be gentle for the first month.
Frequently asked questions
What if I see hairs in the water?
After the first week or so this is normal shedding of the hair shaft, not the follicle, and it is expected. In the first 72 hours, tell us.
Can I use my normal shampoo?
Not initially. Use what we provide, then reintroduce a mild shampoo after roughly two weeks once we have confirmed timing.
What if crusts remain after two weeks?
Continue gentle washing and tell us. Do not pick them off; we can advise or take a look.
Can I shower normally from day three?
You can shower your body, but keep the spray off the recipient area and wash the scalp with the pouring method until we say otherwise.
Book a free consultation at our Harley Street clinic. Existing patients should follow the written aftercare and call with any concern.