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When can you swim after a hair transplant?
This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Kuddusi Onay
A lot of patients chose the summer months to have the hair transplant operation. Having the surgery during the summer holiday season makes sense, but it also presents additional challenges regarding aftercare. for example, when can you swim after a hair transplant?
The first thing you should pay attention to after hair transplantation is to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hours when the sun’s rays come at a right angle. You can wear a hat to protect your hair during those hours. From the 1st day after the operation make sure that you follow the instructions carefully for a good outcome.
When can you swim after hair transplant?
10 days after your operation the scabs that are formed on the transplanted area will fall.
Technically speaking, after this period is completed you can start swimming again. After sending your 10th-day photos to the surgical team, check with the team if your recovery has gone well, and if your transplant is ready to go under seawater or pool water. This may differ from patient to patient depending on the speed of recovery and the hair transplant method. As mentioned above, the right angle of sun rays while spending time in the pool or in the sea is something to consider.
Here are some key points to consider if you plan to swim in the sea after a hair transplant:
Wait at least 2-3 weeks before swimming: It’s essential to allow your scalp time to heal and for the grafts to settle properly. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
Wear a protective cap: If you must enter the water early on, use a loose-fitting, protective swim cap to avoid direct contact between your scalp and seawater.
Avoid saltwater exposure: Salt in seawater can irritate the scalp and may negatively impact the healing process. It’s better to limit contact until fully healed.
Stay out of direct sunlight: After a hair transplant, your scalp is sensitive. If you’re spending time by the sea, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn on the scalp.
Rinse scalp immediately after swimming: If you do swim, make sure to rinse your scalp with clean water right after to remove saltwater or chemicals that may cause irritation.
Avoid physical exertion in the water: Vigorous swimming can increase blood pressure, which may affect the healing process of hair grafts.
Use prescribed shampoo: Continue using the mild shampoo recommended by your doctor to cleanse the scalp gently after any water exposure.
Consult with your surgeon: Always ask your hair transplant surgeon for personalized advice before engaging in activities like swimming to ensure a safe recovery.
Always protect your hair from the harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure.
When Can I Go Out In The Sun After Hair Transplantation?
Before wearing a cap after hair transplantation, make sure that the scalp is completely healed and you have completed your initial 10-day recovery period. It would be best to wear a cap that does not rub on your scalp. While sunbathing or while swimming in the pool or in the sea a hat can protect your hair.
Avoid direct sunlight for the first 2-4 weeks: Your scalp will be sensitive after the procedure, and direct sun exposure can cause irritation or damage to the healing grafts.
Wear a loose-fitting hat: A wide-brimmed or loose hat is ideal to shield your scalp from the sun, especially during the first month. Avoid tight hats that may rub against the grafts.
Use sunscreen on the scalp: Once your doctor approves, apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on the scalp if exposed to the sun. Make sure it’s gentle and safe for healing skin.
Limit sun exposure during peak hours: Try to avoid being outside during peak UV hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Stay hydrated: Sun exposure can cause dehydration, which can affect your body’s healing process. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure: Even with protection, it’s best to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun during the healing period to minimize any potential harm to the scalp.
Sauna after hair transplant
Using a sauna after the hair transplant operation requires similar conditions as swimming. First of all, make sure that the sauna is clean in order not to experience hygiene-related problems. In the first three months following a hair transplant, sauna use is not recommended.