Getting a haircut after a hair transplant is one of the most asked questions and final steps in hair restoration journey to reach a desired look.
However, most people are unsure of when and how to get a haircut after this procedure, which is understandable since they want to protect the new grafts while still maintaining a well-groomed appearance after investing time, money, and hope into their hair transplant procedure.
We will guide you through everything you need to know about getting a haircut after a hair transplant and provide information about when it is safe to trim your hair so that you can achieve the best outcome.
When Can I Get My First Haircut After Hair Transplant?
Getting a haircut too soon can damage the grafts and scalp, potentially compromising the success of your hair transplant procedure and leading to premature graft loss.
It is advisable to wait until both the donor area and recipient sites are fully healed and free of any side effects such as bleeding, swelling, itching, or infections before getting a haircut. Usually, it’s safe to gently trim the donor area as it is fully recovered 1 month after the procedure, and it’s okay to carefully cut the hair on the transplanted area 2 months after the procedure.
Here are some critical timelines you can consider for determining when you can get your first haircut after a hair transplant.
1- Cutting the Donor Area
You can trim the hair in the donor area, typically located at the back of your head, around one month after the procedure. The donor area is usually fully healed by this time, allowing you to use clippers or scissors without any risk.
You may trim your hair short if the hair transplant was performed using the follicular unit extraction method, as it avoids creating a linear scar at the donor site. [1]
2- Cutting the Transplanted Area
It is best to wait at least two full months before cutting your hair gently in the transplanted/recipient area. This approach will help you protect the newly transplanted hair grafts and ensure optimal results.
You may use scissors to trim your hair in this sensitive region. You should also consider checking with your medical clinic to ensure your scalp is healing properly before getting a haircut. If the healing process is slower than expected, you may need to wait longer. It’s generally completely safe to get a haircut 3-4 months after the procedure.
In addition, you can consider maintaining your hair short after the procedure for the best aesthetic results. [2]
How Can I Cut My Hair After a Hair Transplant?
Cutting your hair after a hair transplant requires careful consideration to protect the newly transplanted grafts and ensure proper healing.
Here are some strategies to help you approach it with caution:
1- Wait and Observe Healing
Before cutting your hair, ensure both the donor and transplanted areas are fully healed. Even though the timelines are generally statistically accurate, the patient can observe and feel the healing better than anyone.
This waiting period will allow the grafts to settle securely in place and reduce the risk of damaging them.
2- Choose the Right Tools
You can use clippers or scissors when trimming the donor area as this area is usually less sensitive and more robust to handle the potential minor trauma after a month. You can use scissors to cut the hair in the transplanted area, as they allow for more precise and gentle trimming.
It is better to avoid using clippers on the transplanted area too soon, as they can put pressure on the grafts and potentially dislodge them.
3- Consult Your Clinic If You Have Questions
It is a good idea to consult your clinic or surgeon before getting your first haircut after a hair transplant if you have questions. Your hair care expert will assess your healing progress and provide personalized advice on when and how you can safely cut your hair.
If your healing is slower than expected, your medical professional may recommend waiting longer before trimming.
What Are The Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cutting Hair After a Hair Transplant?
Can I cut my transplanted hair with scissors?
Yes, you can cut your transplanted hair with scissors 1-2 months after the procedure. Scissors are preferable to clippers, as they provide more control and reduce the risk of accidentally damaging the grafts.
However, it is important to make sure the transplanted area is fully recovered before cutting the hair with scissors in the transplanted area.
When Should I Use Clippers After the Hair Transplant?
You can begin using clippers to trim the sides and donor area approximately one month after your hair transplant. However, for the recipient area, it is best to wait at least 3-4 months before using clippers. This allows the new hair to grow and stabilize properly, reducing the risk of rejection of the transplanted grafts.
Can I Trim My Hair After 1 Month of Hair Transplant?
Yes, you can trim your hair in the donor area after one month after a hair transplant using clippers or scissors.
Do Transplanted Hair Grow After Cutting?
Yes, transplanted hair continues to grow after cutting.
Cutting or trimming your transplanted hair does not affect the growth of the hair follicles. Hair grows in cycles, and once the follicles are established, they continue to produce new hair regardless of how often you cut it.
So, after a hair transplant, the transplanted hair follicles enter a new growth cycle. Initially, some of the transplanted hair may be shed during the first few months, which is a normal part of the process known as “shock loss.” After this phase, the follicles will start producing new hair. [3]
What Kind of Haircut Can You Get After a Hair Transplant?
The kind of haircut you can get after a hair transplant depends on your previous styling preferences and the shape of your face.
Here are some haircut styles you can consider getting after a hair transplant:
Crew Cut
The crew cut, or buzz cut, involves trimming hair very short all around. It is ideal a few months after the transplant when your hair has grown evenly and thickened.
This low-maintenance style is perfect for square or oval faces.
Slicked Back
Combing your hair straight back or slicking it with gel or pomade works well as your hair grows longer and thicker.
This style is ideal for thin or fine hair that is thinning on the crown area and can be enhanced with hairspray for extra hold. For a variation, slick the hair back and slightly to one side. This timeless look suits square and oval faces.
Caesar Cut
Also known as the French Crop, Caesar Cut features uniform hair length around the head.
You can adjust the cut based on the texture of your hair. For example, thicker hair benefits from more variation between the top and sides, while thinner hair should preferably be trimmed more evenly.
This cut flatters rectangular, oval, and diamond-shaped faces.
Side-Part
As your hair thickens and new follicles grow, you can consider the classic side-part style.
You can simply part your hair on one side and comb it over to the other. If one side is thinner, use the thicker side to cover it. You can secure it with a bit of gel for added hold.
This style is versatile, suitable for both youthful and mature looks, and looks especially flattering on diamond-shaped faces.
Conclusion
Getting a haircut after a hair transplant is a significant step in your hair restoration journey. It is essential to approach this process with care and patience to ensure the best results.
Remember that timing is key. So, wait until your scalp has fully healed and the grafts are secured in place to avoid any potential damage.
In addition, choosing the right haircut style and method that suits your new hair growth is equally important for achieving a natural look as your hair continues to grow.
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31613520/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5070467/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547740/
