Hair transplant aftercare, day by day.
A clear guide to the first two weeks after FUE at MHB Clinic: how to protect grafts, wash safely and return to normal life without guesswork.
Hair transplant aftercare at MHB Clinic focuses on protecting grafts in the first two weeks: sleep elevated, wash gently as instructed, avoid exercise and sun, and do not pick scabs. Most people return to desk work within a few days. Follow your personal written plan from our Regent Street team.
Day 0
Procedure day
You leave the clinic the same day with medication, an aftercare kit and clear written instructions.
- Rest at home. Keep your head elevated when sleeping (extra pillows help).
- Take prescribed medication exactly as directed.
- Avoid touching, scratching or rubbing the transplanted area.
- Drink water and eat normally. Alcohol is best avoided for the first 48 hours unless your surgeon says otherwise.
Days 1 to 3
Protect and settle
Swelling around the forehead or eyes can appear and usually peaks then eases. Tiny scabs begin to form.
- Continue elevated sleep and gentle movement only.
- Start washing only when and how your MHB plan says (timing can differ by case).
- Wear a loose button shirt rather than pulling tops over your head.
- Skip hats unless your surgeon has approved a specific soft option.
Days 4 to 7
Gentle washing phase
Recipient and donor areas usually look more settled. Stick to the clinic wash method so grafts stay secure.
- Use only the recommended shampoo or lotion and water pressure from your plan.
- Pat dry. Do not rub with a towel.
- Many patients are back at desk work if they feel comfortable and swelling is manageable.
- Still no gym, swimming, sauna or direct strong sun on the scalp.
Days 8 to 14
Surface healing
Most scabs loosen and fall naturally. The scalp surface is largely healed for everyday life, though full activity waits for clearance.
- Never pick scabs. Let them shed on their own.
- Ask before returning to heavier exercise or wearing tighter headwear.
- Donor area should feel much more comfortable; any FUT suture advice is separate and personal.
- Book or attend your follow-up if one is scheduled.
Do's and don'ts
Do
- Follow your written MHB aftercare sheet and kit products
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first nights
- Wash gently only as instructed
- Contact the clinic early if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain, fever or pus
Don't
- Do not pick, scratch or scrub grafts or scabs
- Do not swim, use saunas or steam rooms in the early weeks
- Do not smoke if you can avoid it (it can impair healing)
- Do not restart intense exercise until cleared
Frequently asked questions
- How long does hair transplant aftercare last?
- The strict graft-protection phase is roughly the first 10 to 14 days. Activity limits and sun care continue longer. Growth then follows the normal month-by-month timeline over about a year.
- When can I wash my hair after a hair transplant?
- Timing is set on your personal plan, often within the first few days using a very gentle method. We demonstrate washing before you leave or at your first check so you are not guessing at home.
- When can I go back to work after FUE in London?
- Most desk-based patients return within 2 to 5 days if they feel ready. Roles with heavy physical work, dust or helmets may need longer. We advise based on your job and graft plan.
- Is it normal for transplanted hairs to shed?
- Yes. Transplanted hairs commonly shed in the first weeks. The follicles remain and new growth typically starts around month three. See our recovery timeline for the full year view.
- Who do I call if I am worried after my procedure?
- Contact MHB Clinic on 020 3816 0081 or email info@mhbclinic.co.uk. For urgent medical emergencies, use NHS 999 or 111 as appropriate.
This guide is general information for MHB Clinic patients. Your written aftercare and surgeon advice always come first. It is not a personal medical diagnosis.