Maintaining your newly-restored hair after FUT
If you've just completed a follicular unit transplant, or FUT, congratulations! You're on your way to a new you with your own healthy, natural hair. While FUT generally has a longer recover time than the FUE procedure, it's still very mild, and you will be back to your regular routine and enjoying your new hair in no time. These hair replacement surgery procedures require far less recovery time than older methods, but the better you take care of your new hair, the more you'll get out of it.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your restored hair. As always, your doctor will have more in-depth advice for you, tailored to your specific needs.
Take it easy for a few weeks
As your scalp heals, take some time off before you get back into your exercise routine. For the first two weeks, avoid strenuous activity that will make you sweat. Avoid contact sports or anything that could cause your scalp to get bumped or rub up against something while it's healing. When you do get back into exercising, start out slowly with light activities.
Elevate your head when you sleep
For a few nights after your hair restoration treatment, sleep with your head on several pillows to keep your head elevated.
No drinking or smoking
Avoid alcohol for three days after your procedure. Avoid smoking for two weeks. These activities can reduce the blood flow to your scalp, which keeps your new hair from getting essential nutrients.
Keep your scalp clean
Your hair restoration specialist can go over how to wash your hair while your scalp heals. Don't rub, scratch or pick at your scalp while it heals. After a few days, you can wash and shampoo your scalp like normal.
Let it grow
Wait about three weeks before you get a haircut. This can differ depending on the size of the FUT strip, but generally you don't want to have your hair cut or shaved right away. Give your scalp time to heal and allow any swelling to die down before cutting your hair.
Stay in the shade
If you have to go out in the sun while your scalp is healing, wear a hat. Don't use tanning beds, as your scalp is sensitive at this time. Any intense rays could irritate it.
If you'd like to learn more about hair replacement treatments on Long Island, schedule an appointment with Marotta Hair Restoration today! Dr. Marotta is a dual-board certified facial plastic surgeon with expertise in medical treatments for hair loss. Visit our website to learn more about FUE, FUT and all of the other treatment options we offer to our clients.
