Getting a hair transplant is an exciting process – but we totally understand that it can also be a rather confusing one. In particular, many patients find themselves confused about the recovery process. For optimal results, the recovery process requires you to take a couple of important precautions if you want to secure the best possible results – and that includes not touching the grafts for at least two weeks.
It’s important to not touch the new hair grafts during the recovery period. But why? From infections to dislodging the hair grafts, read on to find out why you should avoid touching your scalp after a hair transplant.
Key Takeaways: Touching Grafts After Hair Transplant
- Do not touch your hair grafts for at least 14 days following your hair transplant procedure
- Hair grafts are most vulnerable in the first 48 hours when even slight friction can cause dislodgement
- Avoid all contact with the transplanted area including rubbing, scratching, or running your hands through your hair for the full 14 days.
- Bacteria from your hands can cause infections which may double your recovery time and impact results
- After 14 days, grafts become secure and can withstand normal friction and handling
- Always follow your clinic’s post hair transplant aftercare programme to maximise graft survival and achieve optimal results
Why you shouldn’t touch your hair grafts after a hair transplant
When it comes to FUE hair transplants, the newly transplanted grafts are super delicate in the first 14 days following your treatment. In fact, they’re so delicate that they can actually fall out if they’re touched excessively, or if the treated area comes into contact with an abrasive or any type of friction.
This is why it’s incredibly important to avoid touching the transplanted area for at least 14 days once you enter the recovery period.
Let’s not also forget that the hands and fingers harbour bacteria like any other part of the body, so it would be easy to run your hands or fingers over your head and accidentally spread bacteria onto your new hair grafts. This could cause an infection, and potentially double your recovery time while impacting your results. That’s why touching grafts after hair transplants is a bad idea, and you should refrain from any contact for the first days of your treatment.
While it can be tempting to run a hand over your new hair grafts, remind yourself it’s only going to negatively impact the final result, and do something to distract yourself!
Reducing the Chances of Dislodging Hair Transplant Grafts
Protecting your newly transplanted hair grafts is essential for achieving the best possible results. Here are the key steps you should take to minimise the risk of dislodging your grafts during the critical recovery period:
Keep Your Hands Away The single most important rule is to avoid touching your scalp for at least 14 days. This means no running your fingers through your hair, no scratching, and no rubbing the transplanted area, even if it feels itchy or uncomfortable.
Sleep Carefully Sleep in an elevated position (ideally at a 45-degree angle) for the first week to reduce swelling and prevent accidentally rubbing your head against the pillow. Use a travel pillow or stack pillows to keep your head elevated and stable throughout the night.
Wash Gently Follow your clinic’s specific washing instructions carefully. Use room-temperature water poured gently from a jug rather than standing directly under a shower. Never blast your scalp with hot water or use high water pressure, as this can dislodge grafts.
Avoid Hats and Headwear Don’t wear tight hats, caps, or headbands for at least two weeks. If you must cover your head for sun protection or privacy, use a loose-fitting hat that doesn’t touch the grafted area.
Be Careful When Drying Never use a towel to rub your hair dry, and avoid hair dryers for the first two weeks. Instead, let your hair air dry naturally or gently pat it with a soft, clean towel.
Protect from Sun Exposure Avoid direct sunlight on your scalp for at least two weeks, as UV exposure can damage healing grafts and cause inflammation.
Avoid Physical Activity Refrain from strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that cause excessive sweating for the full 14 days. Sweat can irritate the grafts and increase the risk of infection.
Don’t Pick at Scabs As your scalp heals, scabs will form around each graft. Never pick, scratch, or remove these scabs, as doing so will likely pull out the graft underneath. Let them fall off naturally during gentle washing.
Get a cost for your hair transplant
Looking for a consultation regarding the hair transplant cost? Book a free consultation with us today to see what we can do for you.
What is the Hair Transplant Graft Survival Rate
Understanding graft survival rates can help you appreciate why proper aftercare is so crucial to your hair transplant success.
Standard Graft Survival Rates In optimal conditions with proper aftercare, modern FUE hair transplants typically achieve graft survival rates of 90-95%. This means that out of every 100 grafts transplanted, 90-95 will successfully take root and grow permanent hair.
Factors Affecting Survival Rate Several factors influence your individual graft survival rate:
- Surgical technique and surgeon skill: An experienced surgeon using proper extraction and implantation techniques significantly improves survival rates
- Patient aftercare compliance: Following post-operative instructions is critical – this is where you have the most control over your results
- Graft handling time: Grafts that spend less time outside the body have higher survival rates
- Patient health factors: Overall health, blood circulation, and lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol consumption) all impact healing
- Quality of donor hair: The strength and health of your donor follicles affects how well they survive transplantation
The First 14 Days Are Critical The highest risk period for graft loss is the first two weeks, particularly the first 48 hours. During this time, the grafts haven’t yet established a blood supply and are held in place only by dried blood and the natural healing process. This is why avoiding any contact or friction is absolutely essential.
Long-Term Success After the initial two-week period, successfully anchored grafts will enter the “shedding” phase where the transplanted hair sheds (this is normal and expected). The follicles remain intact beneath the skin and will begin producing new hair growth after 3-4 months, with full results visible at 12-18 months.
By following your aftercare instructions meticulously, you can ensure your results fall within the optimal 90-95% survival rate range.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I touch my grafts after a hair transplant?
You should wait at least 14 days before touching your hair grafts following a hair transplant. This is because the hair grafts will have built sufficient strength during the recovery period that any movement or friction isn’t going to cause them to fall out.
It’s important to consider every hair transplant individually, as some people recover quicker than others. If you’re concerned that your scalp is pink, swollen, or if the scabs that cover the hair grafts don’t appear to be fully healed, contact us directly with any questions.
What does a dislodged hair graft look like?
A dislodged hair graft is typically a small, bulbous white or translucent tissue at the end of the hair shaft. It looks like a tiny rice grain or seed attached to the base of the hair.
Key characteristics of a dislodged graft include:
- A small white or cream-coloured bulb at the hair root (the actual follicle)
- The hair may still be attached to this bulb
- It may be surrounded by dried blood or scabbing material
- You might find it on your pillow, in the shower, or notice it when gently touching your scalp
If you notice what you believe to be dislodged grafts, try not to panic. Losing a small number of grafts (1-5%) can occur even with perfect aftercare. However, if you notice significant graft loss or are concerned about the amount, contact your clinic immediately for guidance. They can assess the situation and advise whether any intervention is needed.
It’s important to distinguish between dislodged grafts and normal scabbing. Small scabs falling off during gentle washing after day 7-10 is normal and expected – these scabs don’t contain the actual follicle. A true dislodged graft will have the visible white bulb (follicular unit) attached.
How easy is it to dislodge hair grafts?
If you’re wondering how easy it is to dislodge hair grafts, everything will depend on the stage of your recovery process and how far along in the recovery process you are.
In the first 48 hours, your hair follicles are their most sensitive and delicate, and even a slight friction or swift brushing of the hair could result in the dislodgement of several hair grafts.
However, once the hair incisions have completely healed, your hair grafts become almost as solid and resistant as your natural hair. For this to be achieved, you must follow the given aftercare programme correctly and keep your hands away from your hair for 14 days.
How to wash my hair without touching it?
To wash your hair and keep your scalp clean during the recovery process, follow our KSL Clinic aftercare programme. Do not use a hair dryer or towel to dry your hair, let it dry naturally.
Want to know more about hair transplant in the UK? Visit us at one of our locations or contact us online
How long after a hair transplant are the grafts secure?
In the first 48 hours, your hair follicles are their most sensitive and delicate, and even a slight friction or swift brushing of the hair could result in the dislodgement of several hair grafts. However, once the hair incisions have completely healed, your hair grafts become almost as solid and resistant as your natural hair. For this to be achieved, you must follow the given aftercare programme correctly and keep your hands away from your hair for 14 days.
Can hair grafts fall out after a hair transplant?
Yes. Hair grafts are vulnerable to falling out – if touched or if they experience friction – for up to 14 days following your hair transplant. This is because the hair follicle isn’t yet strong enough to withstand friction or tugging. That’s why it’s important to wash your hair with room-temperature water from a jug, and not blast your scalp with a hot shower.
However, after the 14 day period, no amount of friction is going to dislodge them. Some patients with lighter skin tones may experience a slight pink scalp after the two weeks (which is a positive, as this means there is good blood flow to the top of your head), which will subside over the next few days – weeks.
It’s also important to note that all transplanted hairs will naturally shed 2-3 weeks after your procedure as part of the normal hair growth cycle. This is called shedding and is completely expected – the follicles remain in place and will produce new permanent hair growth starting around 3-4 months post-transplant.
When can I wash my hair normally after hair transplant?
You should wait at least 14 days before washing your hair normally after a hair transplant. During the first two weeks, you must follow your clinic’s specific gentle washing protocol.
For the first 14 days, wash your hair using the technique recommended by your clinic, which typically involves:
- Using a gentle, clinic-approved shampoo
- Pouring lukewarm water from a jug or cup over your head rather than using shower pressure
- Gently applying shampoo with your fingertips using a dabbing motion (never rubbing or scratching)
- Rinsing carefully with poured water
- Allowing your hair to air dry naturally
After the 14 day mark, once your surgeon confirms the grafts are secure, you can gradually return to normal washing. However, you should still:
- Use lukewarm (not hot) water for the first month
- Be gentle when shampooing for the first few weeks
- Avoid vigorous towel drying for at least a month
- Continue using a mild, sulphate-free shampoo
Always consult with your clinic before resuming your normal hair washing routine, as individual healing times can vary.
I accidentally slept on my side after hair transplant – what should I do?
If you’ve accidentally slept on your side after a hair transplant, don’t panic, but do take the following steps:
Assess the situation: Carefully examine your transplanted area in good lighting. Look for signs of trauma such as bleeding, displaced grafts (small white bulbs), or significant swelling beyond what you experienced previously.
Contact your clinic: Reach out to your clinic as soon as possible, especially if you notice any bleeding, visible graft displacement, or significant changes to the transplanted area. They can provide specific guidance based on your individual case and timeline since surgery.
Return to proper sleeping position: For the remainder of your recovery (at least 7-10 days post-transplant), sleep in an elevated position at approximately 45 degrees, lying on your back. Use a travel pillow or multiple pillows to keep yourself from rolling onto your side during sleep.
Don’t touch the area: Resist the urge to touch, rub, or examine the grafts excessively, as this could cause additional trauma.
Monitor for the next 24-48 hours: Keep an eye on the transplanted area for signs of complications such as increased swelling, redness, bleeding, or signs of infection (warmth, pus, severe pain).
The good news is that if this happened after the first 48-72 hours, your grafts have likely developed some initial stability, and brief side-sleeping may not have caused significant damage. However, it’s still important to be vigilant and contact your clinic for peace of mind and professional assessment.
To prevent this happening again, consider:
- Using a travel pillow that restricts movement
- Placing pillows on either side of your body to prevent rolling
- Setting an alarm to check your position during the night
- Sleeping in a recliner for the first week if possible
When can I touch my grafts after a hair transplant?
You should wait at least 14 days before touching your hair grafts following a hair transplant. This is because the hair grafts will have built sufficient strength during the recovery period that any movement or friction isn’t going to cause them to fall out.
It’s important to consider every hair transplant individually, as some people recover quicker than others. If you’re concerned that your scalp is pink, swollen, or if the scabs that cover the hair grafts don’t appear to be fully healed, contact us directly with any questions.
How long after a hair transplant are the grafts secure?
You should wait at least 14 days before touching your hair grafts following a hair transplant. This is because the hair grafts will have built sufficient strength during the recovery period that any movement or friction isn’t going to cause them to fall out.
It’s important to consider every hair transplant individually, as some people recover quicker than others. If you’re concerned that your scalp is pink, swollen, or if the scabs that cover the hair grafts don’t appear to be fully healed, contact us directly with any questions.
In the first 48 hours, your hair follicles are their most sensitive and delicate, and even a slight friction or swift brushing of the hair could result in the dislodgement of several hair grafts. However, once the hair incisions have completely healed, your hair grafts become almost as solid and resistant as your natural hair. For this to be achieved, you must follow the given aftercare programme correctly and keep your hands away from your hair for 14 days.
What does a dislodged hair graft look like?
A dislodged hair graft is typically a small, bulbous white or translucent tissue at the end of the hair shaft. It looks like a tiny rice grain or seed attached to the base of the hair.
Key characteristics of a dislodged graft include:
- A small white or cream-coloured bulb at the hair root (the actual follicle)
- The hair may still be attached to this bulb
- It may be surrounded by dried blood or scabbing material
- You might find it on your pillow, in the shower, or notice it when gently touching your scalp
If you notice what you believe to be dislodged grafts, try not to panic. Losing a small number of grafts (1-5%) can occur even with perfect aftercare. However, if you notice significant graft loss or are concerned about the amount, contact your clinic immediately for guidance. They can assess the situation and advise whether any intervention is needed.
It’s important to distinguish between dislodged grafts and normal scabbing. Small scabs falling off during gentle washing after day 7-10 is normal and expected – these scabs don’t contain the actual follicle. A true dislodged graft will have the visible white bulb (follicular unit) attached.
Can hair grafts fall out after a hair transplant?
Yes. Hair grafts are vulnerable to falling out – if touched or if they experience friction – for up to 14 days following your hair transplant. This is because the hair follicle isn’t yet strong enough to withstand friction or tugging. That’s why it’s important to wash your hair with room-temperature water from a jug, and not blast your scalp with a hot shower.
However, after the 14 day period, no amount of friction is going to dislodge them. Some patients with lighter skin tones may experience a slight pink scalp after the two weeks (which is a positive, as this means there is good blood flow to the top of your head), which will subside over the next few days – weeks.
It’s also important to note that all transplanted hairs will naturally shed 2-3 weeks after your procedure as part of the normal hair growth cycle. This is called shedding and is completely expected – the follicles remain in place and will produce new permanent hair growth starting around 3-4 months post-transplant.
How easy is it to dislodge hair grafts?
If you’re wondering how easy it is to dislodge hair grafts, everything will depend on the stage of your recovery process and how far along in the recovery process you are.
In the first 48 hours, your hair follicles are their most sensitive and delicate, and even a slight friction or swift brushing of the hair could result in the dislodgement of several hair grafts.
However, once the hair incisions have completely healed, your hair grafts become almost as solid and resistant as your natural hair. For this to be achieved, you must follow the given aftercare programme correctly and keep your hands away from your hair for 14 days.
When can I wash my hair normally after hair transplant?
You should wait at least 14 days before washing your hair normally after a hair transplant. During the first two weeks, you must follow your clinic’s specific gentle washing protocol.
For the first 14 days, wash your hair using the technique recommended by your clinic, which typically involves:
- Using a gentle, clinic-approved shampoo
- Pouring lukewarm water from a jug or cup over your head rather than using shower pressure
- Gently applying shampoo with your fingertips using a dabbing motion (never rubbing or scratching)
- Rinsing carefully with poured water
- Allowing your hair to air dry naturally
After the 14 day mark, once your surgeon confirms the grafts are secure, you can gradually return to normal washing. However, you should still:
- Use lukewarm (not hot) water for the first month
- Be gentle when shampooing for the first few weeks
- Avoid vigorous towel drying for at least a month
- Continue using a mild, sulphate-free shampoo
Always consult with your clinic before resuming your normal hair washing routine, as individual healing times can vary.
How to wash my hair without touching it?
To wash your hair and keep your scalp clean during the recovery process, follow our KSL Clinic aftercare programme. Do not use a hair dryer or towel to dry your hair, let it dry naturally.
Want to know more about hair transplant in the UK? Visit us at one of our locations or contact us online
I accidentally slept on my side after hair transplant – what should I do?
If you’ve accidentally slept on your side after a hair transplant, don’t panic, but do take the following steps:
Assess the situation: Carefully examine your transplanted area in good lighting. Look for signs of trauma such as bleeding, displaced grafts (small white bulbs), or significant swelling beyond what you experienced previously.
Contact your clinic: Reach out to your clinic as soon as possible, especially if you notice any bleeding, visible graft displacement, or significant changes to the transplanted area. They can provide specific guidance based on your individual case and timeline since surgery.
Return to proper sleeping position: For the remainder of your recovery (at least 7-10 days post-transplant), sleep in an elevated position at approximately 45 degrees, lying on your back. Use a travel pillow or multiple pillows to keep yourself from rolling onto your side during sleep.
Don’t touch the area: Resist the urge to touch, rub, or examine the grafts excessively, as this could cause additional trauma.
Monitor for the next 24-48 hours: Keep an eye on the transplanted area for signs of complications such as increased swelling, redness, bleeding, or signs of infection (warmth, pus, severe pain).
The good news is that if this happened after the first 48-72 hours, your grafts have likely developed some initial stability, and brief side-sleeping may not have caused significant damage. However, it’s still important to be vigilant and contact your clinic for peace of mind and professional assessment.
To prevent this happening again, consider:
- Using a travel pillow that restricts movement
- Placing pillows on either side of your body to prevent rolling
- Setting an alarm to check your position during the night
- Sleeping in a recliner for the first week if possible
