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Aftercare · 5 min read · 20 May 2026

Common mistakes that ruin the result, and how to avoid them

You can have done everything right, chosen a good clinic, a skilled surgeon and the right technique, and still undermine the result through mistakes during healing. The good news: the most common mistakes are entirely avoidable. Here are the most important.

The single biggest mistake. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and can reduce blood flow to the scalp by up to 30%. Since the new follicles depend on blood supply to survive, smoking directly risks undermining the result. Abstain for at least three months before and after.

Direct sun on the healing recipient area can damage the fresh follicles and cause pigment changes. Avoid sunburn, sauna and strong sunlight for the first six weeks. Use shade or a loose hat without friction.

The crusts should be allowed to come off on their own. If you pick them off you can dislodge grafts before they have taken hold. The itching is a sign of healing, rinse according to instructions instead of scratching.

Sweating and exertion in the first weeks increase infection risk and can dislodge the grafts. Wait for light movement until about two weeks and full exercise until four.

Many become worried at shock loss or a lack of visible effect at 2-3 months. The result takes a full year. Patience is part of the aftercare.

We go through the entire aftercare with you and are available throughout the healing year.

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    Smoking

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    Sun and heat too early

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    Scratching and picking at the crusts

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    Exercising too early and too hard

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    Giving up too early

Want to know more? Read about the hair transplant procedure or book a free consultation.

Frequently asked questions about aftercare

What is the most common mistake after a hair transplant?

Smoking. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the scalp by up to 30%, which directly affects how well the new follicles survive. Don't smoke for at least 3 months before and after.

Can I sunbathe after the treatment?

Not for the first weeks. Direct sun on the healing recipient area can damage the fresh follicles and cause pigment changes. Protect the scalp with a hat (without friction) or shade for 6 weeks.

When can I exercise again?

Light movement after about 2 weeks, full exercise at 4 weeks. Early sweating and exertion increase the risk of infection and can dislodge the grafts during the most sensitive phase.

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