10 Days After A Hair Transplant:
What to Expect In Week 2
days 10-14 following a hair transplant is marked by visible healing and physiological stabilisation. While the early inflammation and fragility of the grafts subside, the scalp undergoes more subtle changes that are no less important. Understanding what to expect and how to manage this period helps protect your results and ensures the transition into the next stage of follicular activity is smooth.
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This guide explains in depth the biological changes during days 8 to 14, expected physical signs, and optimal aftercare practices
for a broader guide see our Hair Transplant Recovery Timeline.
Day 8+9: Graft Anchoring and Scab Clearance
Above is a photo taken 10 days after surgery, the scabs have now fallen off and the transplant area looks red.
By the eighth day, the grafts have typically established a fibrous connection with the surrounding dermal tissue. This means the risk of accidental dislodgement has substantially reduced. You may now wash your hair more thoroughly, as long as your technique remains gentle. Most patients are advised to use baby shampoo or a clinic-recommended product. The hair should be washed using the pads of the fingers — not the nails — applying minimal pressure in a circular motion.
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The scabs over the recipient area are beginning to loosen. These crusts — formed from dried plasma, lymph, and dead keratinocytes (sometimes with a small piece of hair in them) no longer serve a protective role and should now be gently washed away. Do not confuse these with grafts falling out. It is acceptable to use a moisturiser or conditioner to soften any stubborn areas. These should be left on the scalp for 20–30 minutes before rinsing. Avoid forceful rubbing or scraping, as the skin may still be sensitive.
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The donor area is typically well-healed by this stage. Redness may persist in some individuals, especially those with lighter skin types, but there should be no pain, weeping or excessive dryness. If these are present, speak to your surgeon promptly.
Day 10: Itching, Flaking and Shedding
Above is a picture of 2 small scabs on the right that have fallen off with some hair inside them, these are shedding, NOT grafts falling out, which you can see is the much longer hair shaft closest to the pen.
Around day 9 or 10, many patients report increased itching. This often affects both the donor and recipient areas and is linked to re-epithelialisation and skin turnover. As new epithelial layers mature and the scabs are shed, underlying nerves begin to regenerate, triggering prickling or tingling sensations. This is a normal part of the healing process. Oral antihistamines such as loratadine or cetirizine (hayfever tablets) may be used to reduce symptoms. Avoid topical steroid creams unless prescribed, as these can interfere with follicular activity.
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You may also begin to notice shedding of the transplanted hairs. This is known as telogen effluvium and is a predictable response to surgical trauma. The follicles remain intact beneath the skin, but the hair shafts are expelled. Patients often describe short hairs falling out during washing or resting on their pillow. This should not be confused with grafts falling out - see above photo. In almost all cases, this phase is temporary and not associated with reduced growth outcomes.
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At this stage, your washing routine should include gentle lathering, rinsing and drying once daily. There is no need to continue saline sprays unless advised. You may resume the use of mild hair products such as conditioners, though styling products should still be avoided until the third or fourth week. The scalp should no longer feel tight or tender.
Days 11–12 – Normal Scalp Appearance Returns
By days 11 and 12, the scalp often looks much closer to normal. Any residual crusting should be gone, and redness begins to fade. Hair that remains in the recipient area may be short and fine, and its presence or absence is not a reflection of future growth. Some patients may have lost most of the transplanted hair by now, while others retain a sparse covering. Both outcomes fall within normal expectations.
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The donor area should show minimal signs of surgery. It may feel slightly numb in patches — this is due to transection of superficial sensory nerves and resolves gradually over weeks or months. Tingling like "pins and needles", altered sensation, or “electric” feelings are not uncommon and indicate neural recovery.
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This is a good time to assess general progress. If you have concerns about any patch of persistent redness, discomfort, or swelling, send photos to your surgeon. Rare complications such as folliculitis or low-grade infection may arise at this stage and are easily treated if recognised early.
Days 13–14 – End of the Initial Recovery Phase
By the end of the second week, most patients feel confident returning to their usual social, professional and personal routines. The transplanted area may still be slightly pink, especially under bright light or after exertion, but this continues to fade. You can now safely wear hats or head coverings, provided they are clean and do not rub the scalp. Sweatbands, helmets, or anything that applies pressure directly to the grafts should still be avoided for a further week.
Patients often ask whether they can return to the gym or resume strenuous physical activity at this stage. In general, low-impact exercise can begin around day 14, but high-impact workouts, swimming pools, and steam rooms should be delayed until all skin redness has gone. Chlorinated water, heavy perspiration, and increased scalp pressure may interfere with final follicle health.
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Hair dyeing, chemical treatments, or close shaving of the recipient zone are not advised until at least four to six weeks post-surgery. Always consult your surgical team before resuming cosmetic interventions.
Psychological Reassurance
Week two can be psychologically challenging. Many patients feel caught between two phases — the visible signs of surgery are fading, but the positive cosmetic results have yet to emerge. You may feel discouraged by shedding, or worried that your hair looks thinner than before. This is common, and does not reflect poor surgical outcome. The follicles are still adapting, and early telogen shedding is both expected and temporary.
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By day 14, you’ve completed the most vulnerable stage of recovery. From here onwards, the scalp becomes more resilient, the risk of infection drops significantly, and your hair begins to enter the slow but steady process of regrowth. Some clinics recommend a follow-up review at the two-week mark. This allows your surgical team to assess healing, ensure shedding is within normal limits, and advise on the next phase of recovery.
FAQ For Week 2
Is it normal for my hair to fall out now?
Yes. Most transplanted hairs shed between day 7 and day 21. This is a natural part of the follicle’s growth cycle. The root remains viable and will enter a new growth phase over the coming months.
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Why is my scalp still pink in places?
Mild erythema may persist for several weeks, especially in individuals with fair skin. It reflects local vascular activity and healing. It is only a concern if it is associated with pain, warmth, or discharge.
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Can I go back to work now?
Yes. For most office-based or remote workers, returning to work after day 7 is perfectly safe. If your work involves physical exertion, tight headwear, or exposure to dust or contaminants, then 2 weeks is advised.
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Should I be using any special shampoo or lotion now?
Continue with a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo such as baby shampoo unless directed otherwise. Avoid medicated or fragranced products unless prescribed. Do not use topical minoxidil until your surgeon gives the go-ahead — this is usually after three weeks.
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Full Recovery Guide:
Hair Transplant After 2 Weeks
Hair Transplant After 1 Month
Hair Transplant After 2 Months
Hair Transplant After 3 Months
Hair Transplant After 4 Months