Hair Transplant · Harley Street
Hair Transplant Recovery
What the days and weeks after a hair transplant actually look like.
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Recovery from a modern FUE or DHI transplant is more straightforward than most people expect, but it helps to know the timeline so nothing comes as a surprise. Downtime is short, though the full result takes patience.
Here is the general picture. We give you detailed, personalised aftercare instructions on the day.
The first two weeks
For the first few days the recipient area is tender and a little swollen, and there may be redness. Most people return to desk-based work within three to five days. Small scabs form around each graft and typically clear within ten to fourteen days with gentle, careful washing as instructed. Sleeping slightly elevated early on helps reduce swelling.
The shedding phase
From around two to eight weeks, the transplanted hairs shed. This is completely normal and expected, not a sign of failure: the follicle stays in place and pushes out new growth over the following months. Redness settles within a week or two, and most people resume exercise after about two weeks.
How should I sleep and protect the grafts?
For the first few nights it helps to sleep slightly propped up, which reduces swelling, and to avoid anything rubbing the recipient area. The new grafts are most delicate in the first days, so no hats that touch them, no scratching and no vigorous towel drying. We give you specific, written aftercare so there is no guesswork.
What is normal in the first few days?
Some redness, mild swelling around the forehead, and small crusts around each graft are all expected and settle over the first week or so. The donor area may feel tight or numb for a while. None of this is cause for alarm, and we tell you clearly what is normal and when to get in touch.
60-second estimate
How many grafts do you need?
Answer three quick questions for an indicative hair-loss stage and graft range, then get a free photo assessment from our surgeon.
Step 1 of 3
Who is this for?
Frequently asked questions
When can I go back to work after a hair transplant?
Most people with desk-based jobs return within three to five days, once the initial swelling settles. Physically demanding work or anything that risks knocking the grafts may need a little longer. We advise on timing for your job at consultation and in your aftercare.
When can I wash my hair?
Washing usually starts within a couple of days, but very gently and exactly as instructed, to protect the new grafts while scabs are present. We show you the careful technique and give written guidance, since the first couple of weeks of washing matter for graft survival.
When can I exercise again?
Light activity can resume within a few days, but sweating and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for about two weeks to protect the grafts and reduce swelling. Contact sports need longer. We give you a clear timeline based on your procedure.
When do the scabs come off?
The small crusts usually loosen and clear within about ten to fourteen days, helped by the gentle washing routine we show you. It is important to let them come away naturally rather than picking, which protects the grafts and the final result.
When can I wear a hat or go in the sun?
A loose hat is usually fine after the grafts have settled, often around the two-week mark, and we will advise on your case. Direct sun on a healing scalp should be avoided early on, and sun protection afterwards helps the result.
Speak to our team
Every treatment begins with a free, no-obligation consultation at 19 Harley Street. We assess you in person and give honest advice on what suits you.
Medically reviewed by Dr Sumeyye Yuksel, MBBS · 24 July 2026