Modern hair transplant procedures are a popular option among balding men due to their high success rates. If you’ve recently undergone one, you’ll receive guidelines on how to care for your new hair. Massages are a proven technique for improving blood circulation. Are they safe for your post-operative scalp?
How Long After a Transplant Can You Massage Your Scalp?
After your procedure, it’s normal to have post-operative concerns. You may experience short term effects such as swelling, bleeding, itching, and infection. Some of your newly transplanted hair may also fall off. This condition is known as shock loss. In most instances, the hair re-grows a few months later because the transplanted follicles remain intact.
Although rare, scalp laxity is one of the long term side effects. It’s more likely if you undergo the FUT procedure, which results in a tight scalp. If you have a loose scalp pre-op, it will regain its laxity faster after the transplant. Dr. Williams will give you a hamper including antibiotics, medical shampoo, and other safe hair care products.
We strongly advise against unnecessarily touching or applying any pressure on the healing area within the first ten days. You can start washing about three days after the procedure. You must be very gentle to avoid disturbing the transplant and donor areas. We’ll offer various medical options to help reduce or eliminate itching, scarring, and irritation. They include hair stimulating shampoo, ointments, and cold compresses.
Start by gently coating the scalp with lotion, oil, or a suitable moisturizer. Let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This process softens the scabs around the transplanted area. The next step is to apply medical shampoo to the donor and transplant areas. Pour it on the palms of your hands and lather before spreading softly. Be sure not to rub or apply any pressure. After washing, pat your scalp gently with paper towels to dry it. Repeat this process daily up to day 10 to ensure you remove all traces of dried blood or scabs.
Do Scalp Massages Help with Recovery and Hair Growth?
After two weeks, the grafts will be firmly in place. You can graduate to washing your hair more frequently while still taking precautions to be gentle. Ensure the water pressure is moderate if you use a shower. Although not conclusive, some researchers believe that regular scalp massages contribute to thicker hair. They do so by stretching the cells in your hair follicles, which stimulates them to increase hair production. It’s also possible for a massage to provide these positive results by dilating the blood vessels under your scalp.
A traditional scalp massage is one of the most effective ways of stimulating hair growth. It involves using only your fingertips to apply light pressure in circular motions. Use both hands to leisurely cover the whole scalp. Try and perform this massage several times daily, with each session lasting about five minutes.
If you have a busy schedule, you can include it in your washing routine. Massage the conditioner or shampoo for up to 5 minutes before rinsing it. Essential oils such as peppermint and lavender are also great for aiding hair growth. If you prefer professional scalp massages, we’ll recommend a licensed therapist who will consider your medical condition.
Contact Advanced Medical Hair Institute for Your Hair Restoration Needs
The Advanced Medical Hair Institute offers the most effective solutions to your hair problems. Our services cover every step before, during, and after the hair restoration procedure. Our highly skilled team, led by the experienced Dr. Joseph Williams, also incorporates the latest technology to guarantee natural-looking results. Please make an appointment today for a comprehensive discussion of our customized services.
