Unshaven Hair Transplant

During the first 7–10 days, grafts are still in the early healing phase. To avoid risks of sweating, friction, or trauma to the scalp, sexual activity should be avoided. From days 10–14, low-intensity activity without pressure on the head can be resumed, as long as friction is avoided. By the second to third week, most patients return to normal routines, but mechanical trauma such as bumping the head against objects or hair pulling should still be avoided. Maintaining hygiene is critical: use lukewarm showers, pat the scalp dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, and avoid hot environments that increase sweating. Always follow your doctor’s personalized recommendations for the safest timeline.

During the first week, only light walking is allowed; activities that increase heart rate and sweating should be avoided. In weeks 1–2, brisk walking or low-intensity stationary cycling may be permitted, but running, weightlifting, or high-intensity training should be avoided. From weeks 3–4, moderate cardio and machine-based weight exercises can usually be resumed, provided they do not strain or impact the scalp. Swimming, hammam, sauna, or steam baths are still not recommended at this stage. By weeks 6–8, most cardio and strength exercises can be gradually resumed with caution. Contact sports such as football, basketball, or boxing, as well as helmet-based activities, are generally safe after 2–3 months, since helmets or headgear can cause friction during early recovery. Each patient heals differently, so the final decision should always come from the treating physician.

In FUE harvesting, microscopic scars are left, but they remain hidden beneath the hair and are nearly invisible. In unshaven techniques, the donor area is covered by the upper layers of hair, ensuring maximum discretion. In the recipient area, redness and small scabs may appear during the first days, but with proper washing protocols, these usually fall off around day 10. For maintaining privacy, it is best to avoid wearing tight hats or beanies during the first 1–2 weeks, as they can cause friction. If sun protection is necessary, only soft hats or umbrellas recommended by the doctor should be used. Concealing products such as dark fibers or hair powders are not advised in the early weeks, as they may interfere with scabs and grafts.

In the first 1–3 days, redness and swelling are expected. By day 10, most scabs will have fallen off. Between weeks 3–6, it is common for the transplanted hairs to shed—a process known as “shock loss.” This is completely normal, as the follicles remain intact under the skin and will start producing new hair around months 3–4. Noticeable volume begins to appear between months 6–9, with the final natural look typically achieved by 12 months. In crown (vertex) areas, full maturation may take up to 12–18 months. The exact timeline depends on factors such as genetics, donor hair quality, aftercare, and any supportive treatments used.