Hours 1-24: Immediately After Your Procedure
Keep your head elevated — sleep at a 45-degree angle using a travel pillow. Do not touch, rub, or scratch either the recipient or donor area. Avoid bending over or lowering your head below heart level. Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours. Take prescribed medications as directed. Expect some leakage of plasma fluid from the recipient area on the first night — this is normal.
Days 2-4: The Washing Protocol
Most clinics begin the washing protocol on day 2 or 3. Dilute a gentle, fragrance-free baby shampoo in water. Apply to the recipient area using a light patting motion — never rubbing. Rinse with very low-pressure water or a cup pour. Never direct a shower stream directly at the transplanted area. Repeat once daily.
Week 2-4: Scab Resolution and Shedding Phase
Continue daily gentle washing. Scabs soften and detach naturally by day 10-14. Do not pick or accelerate scab removal. Expect the transplanted hairs to begin shedding between weeks 2-4. This is entirely normal telogen transition — the follicle beneath the skin is intact and will regrow.
Months 1-6: Activity and Lifestyle Restrictions
Exercise: light walking from day 7. Moderate cardio from week 4. Weight training from week 6. Contact sports from month 3. Protect the recipient area from direct sun for the first 3 months. Avoid swimming pools for 4-6 weeks. Return alcohol to normal after 72 hours but avoid heavy consumption for 2 weeks.
Month 6-12: Maximizing Your Result
By month 6 you are seeing 50-60% of your final result. Continue any prescribed medical maintenance therapy. PRP therapy sessions at 3-month intervals during the first year have evidence for improving density. Take monthly comparison photos from consistent angles and lighting.