What are hair transplant scabs?
Hair transplant scabs are caused due to the trauma caused to the scalp due to the hair transplant procedure of making small incisions for graft insertion. In a few days, the hair transplant scabs falling off on their own. It would heal eventually on its own. The scabs formation begins on the third day; at this point, it is tightly bonded to the scalp. Hair transplant scabs falling off would be seen in around one to two weeks. The hair transplant scab removal depends on factors like the number of grafts, density and the number of incisions. Do not remove scabs after hair transplant, as they help in protecting the new grafts.
With hair transplant scabs falling off, some short hair would also fall off. It is a normal phase. The follicles beneath the skin are living, and new hair starts growing in around three to four months. If hair doesn’t shed with the scab, it will grow for three to six weeks and eventually fall off.
After getting a hair transplant, the success of the procedure depends on the aftercare and precautions to be taken as much as on the surgeon’s experience and the clinic’s facilities. Hence, choose the right clinic for your treatment and follow instructions for the best results.
How to clean the scabs after a hair transplant?
- You can wash your hair with the recommended shampoo after 72 hours of your surgery.
- For hair transplant scab removal, You can soak your head in the bathtub for the scabs to soften.
- Do not pick your scabs to remove scabs after a hair transplant, as it can result in permanent displacement of the graft. You can pat it gently.
- You can spray saline solution as the doctor recommends to aid in the hair transplant scab removal.
How to remove scabs after a hair transplant?
Here are some ways to hair transplant remove scabs:
- Gently massage your scabs with your fingers.
- Avoid panicking if hair falls with scabs as long as there is no bleeding.
- Do not touch it to remove scabs after a hair transplant in the first week. It would only hamper the grafts and healing process.
- Allow the scalp to dry off on its own, and in case of any bleeding, inform your doctor immediately.
- Consider massaging the scalp after two weeks of the procedure. By this time, the grafts are tightly attached to the scalp.
Why is it important for hair transplant to remove scabs?
We know that hair scabs are formed due to the trauma caused to the scalp by multiple incisions. Here are some reasons you should consider to hair transplant to remove scabs:
- Reduce irritation: The amount of scabs depends on the number of grafts, incisions and density for the scabs to fall off. Since the scabs are itchy, it can lead to the desire to pick them up and scratch the area. Scabs are for the protection of the newly placed grafts. Hence touching the scabs can damage the grafts. The scabs would be gently removed by washing the hair, which allows scalp breathing.
- Growth of grafts: In the early stage, scabs are protective and should not be touched. It is because scabs create a damp and warm environment which can lead to bacterial infection. Hence it becomes necessary to remove scabs after a hair transplant after a certain period. The scabs can further lead to inflammation and interfere with hair growth. The doctor would use a special enzyme-based solution spray to dissolve the scabs ensuring proper and safe removal from the scalp.
- Avoid scalp scarring: When the scabs are formed, they make the area dry and itchy hence it isn’t easy to control the urge to scratch it. After the hair transplant procedure, it is advised not to touch the scabs in the early days, as scratching the scalp can lead to scarring of the scalp. It is also possible that those which are attached to the scalp can come off on scratching the scabs. Hence, not touching the scabs and following the recommended removal procedure is suggested.
How to take care of hair post-transplant treatment?
After a hair transplant, follow these steps for proper recovery:
- Avoid consuming any alcohol for a few days after the surgery. Alcohol thins out the blood making healing difficult.
- Avoid medications for vitamins, minerals, painkillers and arthritis. They would thin the blood and hamper recovery.
- Take the prescription medicine for pain relief, antibiotics and prednisone as directed by the physician.
- Avoid high-intensity activities for a week after the procedure.
- Maintain your upper body in an elevated position.
- In case of light bleeding from the area, use a cotton pad and apply light pressure.
- Avoid using a hair dryer or styling for at least one week after the procedure.
It is vital to consult with your physician or surgeon to know how to manage yourself after the hair transplant.