# Hair transplant aftercare: the first 15 days, day by day

> What happens in the first 15 days after a hair transplant and what to watch for: sleeping, washing, itching, swelling and scabs, day by day.

URL: https://www.roycehairlab.com/en/blog/hair-transplant-aftercare-first-15-days
Category: Recovery · Published: 2026-10-06 · Updated: 2026-10-06 · Reading time: 7 min
Prepared by: Royce Hair Lab editorial team
Keywords: hair transplant aftercare, after hair transplant, first 15 days, swelling after hair transplant, itching

The first two weeks are when the transplanted follicles anchor in place. Care in this period directly affects the result.

## Day 1

- The donor area is dressed; do not touch the recipient area.
- Sleep on your back with your head slightly raised. A neck pillow helps.
- Take the medicines your doctor prescribed on time.

## Days 2–3: the first wash

The first wash is done at the clinic and you are shown how to wash at home. Foam is spread over the recipient area, not rubbed; water should be lukewarm and low pressure. See the [first wash guide](https://www.roycehairlab.com/en/blog/first-hair-wash-after-transplant).

## Days 3–5: swelling

Swelling may appear on the forehead and around the eyes as the anaesthetic fluid moves down with gravity. It fades in a few days. A cold pack can go on the forehead, never on the recipient area.

## Days 5–10: itching

Itching increases as the skin heals. Do not scratch; regular washing and the lotion your doctor recommends help.

## Days 10–14: scabs

Scabs soften with regular washing and come off. Some hairs may fall with them; the roots stay in place.

## Avoid in the first 15 days

- Touching, scratching or picking the recipient area
- Tight hats or helmets (a loose hat is fine)
- Swimming pools, the sea, sauna and heavy sport
- Smoking and alcohol
- Long periods in direct sun

If redness increases, or you notice discharge or a fever, contact your doctor without delay.


## Sources

- [A hair transplant can give you permanent, natural-looking results](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/treatment/transplant), American Academy of Dermatology
- [Hair transplant](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007205.htm), MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine

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The information on this site is general and does not replace an examination or diagnosis.