Undergoing a hair transplant is a transformative step toward regaining confidence and a fuller head of hair. However, the first week post-procedure is critical for ensuring optimal results. If you’re wondering what to expect 1 week after a hair transplant, this 2000-word guide by Alloroots provides detailed insights into recovery, care, and milestones during this period. Led by Dr. Alok Sahoo, an AIIMS alumnus, Alloroots is India’s trusted name for advanced hair restoration, offering personalized support to make your journey seamless. Let’s explore the healing process, do’s and don’ts, and how Alloroots ensures your success.
Why the First Week Matters
The initial seven days after a hair transplant are pivotal for graft survival and healing. Whether you’ve undergone Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), or Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) at Alloroots, your scalp is in a delicate state. Proper care during this time minimizes complications, reduces swelling, and sets the foundation for natural, long-lasting results. Understanding what’s normal—and what to watch for—helps you stay confident and informed.
The Hair Transplant Process: A Quick Recap
Before diving into the first week, let’s revisit the procedure. At Alloroots, our hair transplants involve:
- Consultation: Dr. Alok Sahoo assesses your hair loss, estimates grafts, and selects the best technique.
- Procedure: Follicles are harvested (FUE/DHI: individually; FUT: via strip) and implanted with precision.
- Duration: 4-8 hours, using local anesthesia for comfort.
- Techniques: FUE (no linear scar), FUT (high graft yield), or DHI (precise implantation).
Post-procedure, your scalp enters a healing phase, and the first week is when initial recovery unfolds.
Also Read:- Can Hair Transplant Cause Cancer?
Day-by-Day Breakdown: What to Expect 1 Week After a Hair Transplant
Day 1-2: Immediate Post-Op Phase
- Appearance: The scalp appears red with tiny scabs around grafts. Transplanted areas may look slightly raised.
- Sensations: Mild soreness, tightness, or itching is normal. The donor area (back/sides) may feel tender.
- Swelling: Some patients experience forehead or eye swelling due to anesthesia fluids, peaking at day 2-3.
- Care: Keep the scalp clean and dry. Alloroots provides a saline spray to mist the grafts gently. Sleep with your head elevated (45° angle) using a neck pillow to reduce swelling.
- Activity: Rest completely; avoid touching the scalp or bending over.
Alloroots Support: We provide detailed post-op kits, including medications (painkillers, antibiotics) and instructions to ensure comfort and hygiene.
Day 3-4: Early Healing
- Appearance: Redness and scabs persist but may start fading. Swelling typically subsides by day 4.
- Sensations: Soreness decreases, though itching may increase as healing begins. Avoid scratching.
- Shedding: Some transplanted hairs may shed (normal “shock loss”; follicles remain intact).
- Care: Begin gentle washing as advised by Alloroots, using a mild, pH-balanced shampoo. Pat dry with a clean towel—never rub. Continue saline sprays to keep grafts moist.
- Activity: Light activities like walking are okay, but avoid sweating, sun exposure, or strenuous tasks.
Alloroots Tip: Our team schedules a follow-up to monitor healing and guide you on washing techniques for optimal graft care.
Day 5-7: Stabilization Phase
- Appearance: Scabs start loosening and may fall off naturally, revealing a cleaner scalp. Redness fades significantly, especially with FUE/DHI. FUT patients may notice donor area stitches (removable at 10-14 days).
- Sensations: Itching is common but manageable with prescribed sprays or antihistamines. Pain is minimal or absent.
- Shedding: Shock loss continues but doesn’t affect long-term growth.
- Care: Continue gentle washing daily, as instructed by Alloroots. Apply any prescribed ointments to the donor area. Avoid direct water pressure on grafts.
- Activity: Resume non-strenuous work (e.g., desk jobs) if comfortable. Avoid helmets, caps, or anything touching the scalp.
Alloroots Support: We offer 24/7 helplines for queries and complementary therapies like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to boost healing, if recommended.
Common Experiences at the 1-Week Mark
By day 7, your scalp is stabilizing, and you’re likely noticing:
- Improved Comfort: Most discomfort (soreness, tightness) resolves. Itching may persist but is controllable.
- Cleaner Scalp: Scabs are mostly gone with proper washing, revealing tiny hairs or stubble in transplanted areas.
- Donor Area Healing: FUE patients see tiny dots fading; FUT patients have a healing linear scar.
- Swelling Gone: Any facial swelling fully subsides.
- Normalcy Returning: You feel ready for light routines, though full recovery takes longer.
What’s Not Normal?
- Severe pain, excessive bleeding, or pus (rare with Alloroots’ sterile protocols).
- Persistent swelling beyond day 5.
- Fever or signs of infection. If these occur, contact Alloroots immediately. Our team, led by Dr. Alok Sahoo, ensures prompt intervention.
Also Check:- Can I Wear a Cap After a Hair Transplant?
Post-Op Care Guidelines: The Alloroots Approach
Proper care in week one maximizes graft survival (typically 90-95% at Alloroots). Follow these expert tips:
Do’s
- Wash Gently: Start washing on day 3-4 as instructed, using lukewarm water and Alloroots-recommended shampoo. Pour water from a cup to avoid pressure.
- Sleep Elevated: Use extra pillows to keep your head at a 45° angle, reducing swelling and protecting grafts.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support healing.
- Take Medications: Follow prescribed antibiotics, painkillers, or anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent infection and discomfort.
- Attend Follow-Ups: Visit Alloroots for check-ups to monitor progress and receive tailored advice.
- Use Saline Spray: Mist grafts 2-3 times daily to keep them moist and promote scab softening.
Don’ts
- Don’t Touch Grafts: Avoid scratching, picking, or rubbing, as this dislodges grafts.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can harm the sensitive scalp. Wear a loose hat only if cleared by Alloroots.
- No Sweating: Skip workouts, saunas, or hot baths, as sweat irritates grafts.
- No Smoking/Alcohol: These impair blood flow, slowing healing and risking graft failure.
- Avoid Tight Headwear: Helmets or caps can disrupt grafts; wait at least 10-14 days.
- Don’t Skip Care: Inconsistent washing or neglecting medications increases complication risks.
Alloroots Pro Tip: Our bio-enhanced FUE and PRP therapies, available at select clinics, accelerate healing and strengthen grafts, ensuring faster recovery.
Emotional and Psychological Expectations
The first week can be an emotional rollercoaster. You may feel:
- Excitement: The procedure is done, and fuller hair is on the horizon.
- Anxiety: Scabs, redness, or shedding can spark worry, but these are normal.
- Impatience: Results take months, so focus on healing, not growth.
Alloroots provides counseling and regular check-ins to address concerns, ensuring you stay confident. Dr. Alok Sahoo’s team emphasizes that week one is just the start of a rewarding journey.
Why Choose Alloroots for Your Hair Transplant?
Alloroots sets the standard for hair restoration in India, offering:
- Expert Leadership: Dr. Alok Sahoo, with over 10,000 procedures, delivers exceptional outcomes.
- Advanced Techniques: FUE, FUT, DHI, and robotic DHI for precision and natural results.
- Comprehensive Care: From pre-op planning to post-op support, we guide you every step.
- State-of-the-Art Clinics: Sterile facilities in Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, and beyond ensure safety.
- Holistic Solutions: PRP, Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC), and scalp micropigmentation enhance results.
- Patient Trust: Thousands of satisfied clients vouch for our life-changing transformations.
Our post-op protocols, tailored to FUE, FUT, or DHI, minimize complications and maximize graft survival, making week one smooth and stress-free.
What Happens After Week 1?
By day 7, you’ve crossed a major milestone, but recovery continues:
- Weeks 2-4: Scabs fully shed, redness fades, and shock loss peaks (temporary shedding of transplanted hairs).
- Months 3-6: New growth begins, with fine hairs appearing.
- Months 12-18: Full, dense results emerge, showcasing Alloroots’ artistry.
Follow Alloroots’ long-term care plan—gentle washing, PRP sessions (if advised), and avoiding harsh chemicals—to sustain progress.
Tips for a Successful First Week
- Follow Instructions Precisely: Adhere to Alloroots’ washing and medication schedules.
- Stay Patient: Redness and shedding are temporary; focus on healing.
- Communicate: Reach out to our team with any concerns, no matter how small.
- Protect Your Scalp: Avoid environmental stressors like dust, sun, or pollution.
- Rest Well: Adequate sleep supports recovery and reduces swelling.
Patient Testimonials
“One week after my FUE at Alloroots, my scalp was healing beautifully. Dr. Alok Sahoo’s team guided me daily, and the redness was minimal. I felt supported throughout!” – Amit, Bangalore
“Alloroots made my first week post-DHI stress-free. Scabs were gone by day 7, and their care tips worked wonders. Highly recommend!” – Priya, Bhubaneswar
Start Your Hair Transplant Journey with Alloroots
Ready for fuller hair with expert care? Alloroots ensures a smooth recovery from day one. Contact us at:
- Website: alloroots.com
- Locations: 2nd Floor, D 1 Square, Nandan Kanan Road, KIIT Square, Patia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751024
Book a consultation with Dr. Alok Sahoo to plan your transplant and learn about our post-op support. With Alloroots, your first week—and beyond—is set for success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I wash my hair 1 week after a transplant?
Yes, gentle washing is advised from day 3-4 using Alloroots’ recommended shampoo. By week one, daily cleaning with lukewarm water helps remove scabs without harming grafts.
2. Is swelling normal 1 week after a hair transplant?
Swelling typically subsides by day 5. If it persists at week one, contact Alloroots. Our team monitors healing to ensure complications are addressed promptly for optimal recovery.
3. Why is my scalp itchy 7 days post-transplant?
Itching is normal as the scalp heals. Alloroots provides saline sprays and antihistamines to manage it. Avoid scratching to protect grafts and ensure successful hair growth.
4. When can I return to work after a transplant?
Most patients resume non-strenuous work (e.g., desk jobs) by day 5-7. Alloroots advises avoiding physical exertion for 10-14 days to safeguard grafts during early healing.
5. Will transplanted hair shed in the first week?
Some shedding (shock loss) may start by day 5-7, which is normal. Alloroots ensures follicles remain intact, with new growth beginning at 3-6 months post-procedure.
Dr. Alok is a renowned Pan India Hair Restoration Surgeon with an MD in Dermatology & Venereology from AIIMS, New Delhi. With over 3000 successful hair transplants to his name, he has transformed the lives of thousands across the country, providing expert hair care with a focus on integrity, precision, and personalized solutions. His vast experience and commitment to excellence make him a trusted leader in the field of hair restoration.
