How to Get Rid of Scabs After a Hair Transplant?

Hair transplantation is a fascinating procedure, and it’s normal to desire to expedite the recovery process. As a result, many patients naturally wish to be informed about how to deal with hair transplant scabs following their procedure. Gathering detailed information about how to care for your scalp following a hair transplant will indeed help a quick recovery and natural-looking results.

Scab development is a natural part of the body’s function. It serves as a natural barrier to protect the skin from exposed sores. Especially after a hair restoration procedure that involves several tiny incisions. These factors promote bleeding, which contributes to the production of crusts. Scabs that form after a hair transplant is normal, and they will disappear after a proper wash.

When can I remove scabs after a hair transplant?

The scabs may be itchy, like with any healing lesion, but it’s crucial not to pick them. During these critical initial few days, the newly implanted grafts are extremely fragile, and any touch might dislodge or harm them. This might leave empty patches on the scalp, jeopardising the procedure’s success.

First four days

You should not touch your recipient area. For your scabs to heal as fast as possible, it’s preferable if you don’t smoke or consume alcohol for at least three days after the procedure. Also, sitting or standing for an extended period is not recommended.

By the end of the first week

Your grafts should be stable, and you may normally bathe and moisturise your hair to help the scabs and crusts release. The scalp should be clear of scabs after two weeks. Scabs are only a temporary condition and a normal component of the healing process after a hair transplant.

After ten days

You can give your scalp a little massage. The follicles should be securely linked to your scalp and receive enough blood flow. You don’t need to do anything to get rid of the scabs; they’ll come off on their own after they’ve dried. It’s important to remember not to pick at your scabs when massaging. Even though the grafts are settled, picking at the scabs may dislodge them and extent the healing process.

How to get rid of scabs after hair transplant?

While cleaning and bathing their hair, it is suggested that patients softly massage their scalp with their fingertips. The scabs will soften and come off spontaneously as a result of this. Picking your scabs, as tempting as it may be, might cause the newly implanted grafts to come loose. Most patients remain scab-free in about ten days following surgery if they follow the proper regimen.

Scabs arise after a hair transplant due to the nature of the procedure. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) are the two major procedures of hair transplantation. These treatments entail transplanting healthy hair follicles from a donor location of the patient’s scalp to places where hair loss has occurred, called the recipient area.

Experienced surgeons use specialised blades depending on the patient’s skin condition and the number of the grafts needed for the operation. The quantity and pattern of new hair growth are determined at this stage. Within the first day following surgery, scabbing will commonly form in the recipient area. You may also notice some redness and swelling in your scalp, though this should be minor and go away within a few days.

My scabs started to fall off before the 12th day after hair transplant. Is it a problem?

No, it’s not a problem if your scabs start falling off before the 12th day as long as they are coming off naturally and not being picked or forcefully removed. Scabs typically begin to loosen around day 7 and should be completely gone by the end of the second week.

If your scalp is healing well and you’re following proper washing and care instructions, early scab shedding is not a problem. It is recommened to avoid scratching or aggressively rubbing your scalp to prevent dislodging any grafts.

Can coconut oil remove scabs after hair transplant?

Yes, pure coconut oil can help soften and loosen scabs after a hair transplant, making them easier to fall off naturally. Even though the provided hair transplant aftercare sets are recommended, applying a thin layer of coconut oil to the scalp can provide hydration, reduce dryness, and minimize itching.

It’s important to wait until at least the 10th day before gently massaging any oil onto the scalp to avoid disturbing the grafts. Always follow your clinic’s aftercare instructions and rinse thoroughly to prevent buildup.

Is it okay if I see hair fall when removing my scabs?

Yes, it’s normal to see some hair shedding when your scabs fall off. This is probably a part of the shock loss process, where transplanted hairs temporarily shed before new growth begins. The important thing is that the grafts (root of your hair) remain intact beneath the skin, as only the hair shafts are falling out.

As long as you’re not forcefully picking at scabs or pulling hairs, this shedding is expected and doesn’t affect your final results. However, if you notice excessive bleeding, persistent redness, or unusual pain, consult your clinic for assistance.

What happens if scabs are not removed after hair transplant?

If scabs are not removed more than 2 weeks after a hair transplant, they may delay the healing process and may affect the final results. Scabs that remain for too long can trap dirt, oil, and dried blood, potentially leading to irritation or infection. Also, they might block oxygen flow to the grafts and diminish the hair growth.

To avoid this, follow your clinic’s recommended washing routine, gently massaging the scalp with fingertips or gauze after the first 10 days. The scabs should naturally fall off within two weeks. If scabs persist beyond this period, consult your clinic’s medical team for guidance.