Hair transplant surgery offers an effective solution for many people experiencing hair loss problems. However, to achieve successful hair transplant results, applying proper hair care before the operation is of critical importance. The care routine you apply before hair transplant will both increase the success of the operation and accelerate the healing process.
The Importance of Pre-Hair Transplant Care
Pre-hair transplant care not only protects the health of your existing hair but also ensures that your scalp is ready for the operation. A healthy scalp allows graft harvesting and placement procedures to be performed more easily. Additionally, well-maintained hair heals faster after the operation and achieves a more natural appearance.
What Should Be Applied 3-4 Weeks Before the Operation
1- Eliminate Factors That Cause Hair Loss
To protect your existing hair before hair transplant, you need to minimize factors that cause hair loss. Stress management, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are vital during this process. Reducing cigarette and alcohol consumption strengthens your pre-operative preparation by improving blood circulation in your scalp.
2- Correct Shampoo Selection and Usage
Before hair transplant, you should prefer sulfate-free shampoos that can maintain pH balance. Using shampoo every two or three days instead of daily shampooing preserves the natural oil balance of your scalp. When applying shampoo, you can increase blood circulation by gently massaging your scalp.
3- Scalp Strengthening Care Products
Hair care products containing biotin, keratin, and natural oils strengthen your scalp during the pre-hair transplant period. You can preserve moisture balance by applying natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil to your scalp 2-3 times a week. These oils also increase the elasticity of your scalp, minimizing trauma that may occur during the operation.
What Should Be Considered 2 Weeks Before the Operation
1- Avoid Chemical Treatments
Chemical treatments such as hair dyeing, perming, and straightening should absolutely not be applied before hair transplant. These treatments sensitize the scalp and can cause unwanted reactions during the operation. If you want to dye your hair, it is recommended to do this at least 4 weeks before the operation.
2- Benefits of Heat Application and Massage
You can increase blood circulation by regularly applying warm water compresses to your scalp. Revitalizing your scalp with gentle massage movements strengthens the follicles and completes your pre-operative preparation. However, avoiding excessively harsh massage is important for protecting your existing hair.
3- Nutrition and Vitamin Support
Protein-rich nutrition is a basic requirement for hair health. You should regularly consume foods such as fish, chicken, eggs, legumes, and nuts. Vitamins C, D, E, and B complex support hair growth. Minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium are also critically important for hair health.
Final Preparations 1 Week Before the Operation
1- Stop Alcohol and Cigarette Use
You need to completely stop alcohol and cigarette use at least one week before the operation. These substances negatively affect blood circulation and slow down the healing process. Minimizing caffeine consumption also ensures you are more comfortable on the operation day.
2- Be Careful About Blood Thinning Medications
You should stop using medications with blood-thinning effects such as aspirin and ibuprofen one week before the operation. If you use regular medications, you must consult with your doctor to learn which medications you need to stop before the operation.
3- Adjust Hair Length
It is recommended to have your hair shortened at a professional hairdresser a few days before the operation. While not being too short, having hair length around 3-4 cm is ideal for operation convenience. This length both facilitates the graft harvesting process and makes post-operative care more practical.
Preparation on Operation Day
1- Hair Washing and Cleansing
On the morning of the operation day, you should clean your hair with lukewarm water and mild shampoo. Do not use products such as hair conditioners, gel, or spray. Having a completely clean scalp is important for the operation to be performed under sterile conditions.
2- Comfortable Clothing Choice
To avoid damaging your hair after the operation, you should prefer front-buttoned clothes with wide collars. Tight-collared t-shirts and sweaters can damage the hair transplant area.