Undergoing the treatment of hair transplantation can be exciting as it is going to solve your issue of hair loss. But one thing which patients worry about is the itching part. Is this normal and what should be done. Read the given topic to understand whether Itching is part of the hair growth.
When we were a kid and while playing there might be a few occasions when you fell and cut the knee. It would have been very painful and itchy. You might feel like pulling the scabs but your mother told you not to do that. This is because you will end up getting a scar.
Well, the same goes for the hair transplant. When the body is healing through a cut or incision it is going to itch. The hair grafts are removed by using a small punch tool from the donor area, which is going to itch as you heal. Although the puncture holes are very small still they are wounds.
What Is Itching Occur After Hair Transplantation?
Itching is the most common symptom after hair transplantation. It is absolutely harmless. There is nothing you should worry about. Itching usually shows up in the first week after hair transplantation. Itching in the area, which is mostly caused by crusting, can also occur due to infected hair follicles or wrong product usage in some cases. Itching after hair transplantation disappears by itself within two weeks.
Are You Suffering From Itching After Having a Hair Transplant?
Itching is a common symptom after a hair transplant, but rest assured it will go away! There are simple things you can do at home to reduce the itchy sensation and make yourself feel comfortable. At The Treatment Rooms London we have perfected our treatments to soothe the irritating itching feeling and in this blog we will give you some key tips.
What Can I Do About An Itchy Scalp?
It is extremely important that patients do not scratch or rub their scalp after a hair transplant. Doing so is likely to cause the newly implanted hair follicles to fall out as they have not yet had time to properly anchor themselves. Following any hair transplant at our clinic, all patients are provided with a full range of ointments, medications, and shampoos for use in the time following their procedure. The best ways to deal with an itchy scalp after a hair transplant are:
Moisturiser/Lotion: Keeping your scalp properly moisturised will help prevent it from drying out and will minimise itchiness.
Medicated shampoo: We will provide you with a special medicated shampoo to use that will help to alleviate itching as well as soften the scabs, quickening the healing process. (Please read our guide on shampooing after a hair transplant for more detailed instructions and timelines.)
Antihistamines: During the healing process, your body will likely release histamines at the implant site. This is a major contributor to an itchy scalp.
Baby oil: Baby oil can be a mild and effective treatment for an itchy scalp.
Pay attention not to rub or scratch during the application of any topical ointments. It is best practice to put a small amount in the palm of your hand and lightly dab it onto the transplant site.
When Does the Itching Go Away?
Itching following a hair transplant surgery typically lasts 1 week. However, in rare cases, it might need up to 4 weeks to subside. Scalp itching can be particularly worse in the first 4-5 days after hair transplantation when you cannot wash the top of your head. After you wash this area for the first time after treatment, the itching will improve.
How to Alleviate the Itch
First off, it’s advised that you don’t do anything that will aggravate the scalp, which could cause the itching to feel worse. This includes avoiding swimming, direct sunlight, sun beds, excessive sweating (so no exercising), sexual activity, using a sauna or having a hot bath in the first weeks and months. (Your surgeon will give you exact details on what activities to avoid and for how long.)
Then, your surgeon will give you a few different medications and scalp products to use. It’s important that you use these exactly as prescribed. You’ll be given a special medicated shampoo and possibly a special lotion and / or a moisturising spray.
If the skin on your scalp becomes dehydrated it can make the itching feel more severe, so using these lotions and sprays can help soothe the area. It’s also a good idea to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water and staying away from alcohol for a few weeks.
Avoiding smoking also helps, as this can cause the tiny blood vessels in the scalp to stop delivering oxygen to the area, exacerbating the problem.
If your itching becomes unbearable, speak to your surgeon. They may be able to prescribe a different lotion or shampoo. They may also suggest other measures such as applying petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or a skin oil or taking antihistamine tablets to control the itch. However, this must only ever be done under the supervision of an experienced hair restoration surgeon. Never apply anything to your scalp or take a medication from elsewhere without consulting with your surgeon first.
How to Manage Itching After a Hair Transplant?
Itchy skin is highly uncomfortable, and it usually gets aggravated at night. Here is a list of treatments you can use at different stages of your recovery for your post-transplant care.
- Do not scratch even when it is itching!
- Spray some saltwater
- An antihistamine can be taken
- Medicated shampoos can be used
- Use of steroid scalp solution
