Hair transplant and sports. Can you exercise after a hair transplant?
Many people wonder how long it takes to fully return to physical activity and a normal lifestyle after a hair transplant. What must be considered and what rules must be followed? What should you avoid? Is it possible to sunbathe, wash your hair and play sport?
Whether in an amateur sport – for recreation, to feel better or to improve one’s condition – or in a competitive or professional (paid) manner, sport clearly and noticeably improves one’s physical and mental condition, has a positive effect on motivation and on intellectual activity. People who train every day and those who like to exercise several times a week to keep their bodies and minds in great shape are often afraid of various treatments or operations, because they are terrified of the prospect of a long period of convalescence and, consequently, exclusion from sports life. Does this have to happen after a hair transplant? We will try to answer this and other questions below.
What should you do after your hair transplant?
The truth is that how a particular patient approaches the issue of recovery will determine the final outcome of the procedure. After the procedure, the patient will receive thorough, factual and expert advice that will help him or her achieve the best, dreamed-of results. The way he/she responds to them and how he/she handles them will have an impact on the acceptance and growth of the hair. After leaving the clinic, it is entirely up to the patient what effect is achieved. Care, systematics and following the recommendations given by experts are important. Remember that the scalp after transplantation contains two types of places – those where hair has been transplanted and those places from where it was taken. Both parts require the same concentrated attention.
- The scalp should be protected from direct sunlight. They bring the risk of skin changes such as erythema or sunburn. In the case of very sensitive skin after transplantation, this would simply be dangerous;
- Experts recommend purchasing suitable, non-pressing, non-abrasive headgear. This will protect the skin, ensuring faster healing of the wounds, and will also help transplant recipients to live a comfortable, everyday life;
- it is absolutely necessary to avoid touching or rubbing the scalp for one to eight days after the operation;
- The first washing of the head should take place the day after arrival. For this purpose, it is necessary to pull on the products recommended and recommended in the clinic, which will be suitable and safe for the skin. The treatment should be done carefully and very gently pouring on the scalp, do not rub anything into it or rub it with a towel;
- only from the eighth day after the treatment it is allowed to use shampoos and preparations supporting hair growth which are indicated by experts
What should you avoid after a hair transplant?
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun for six months after treatment. After this time, you should use a sunscreen with SPF50 or SPF30 for safety.
- You should not carry heavy objects, bend rapidly or do strenuous physical work.
- During the first two weeks you should be careful with your scalp, especially the implantation sites. Protect your head from scratches and abrasions, take care when getting out of the car and playing with children.
- Sleep in a comfortable position with your head slightly elevated.
- Do not have any hairdressing done for 6 months after the transplant. You may not colour or cut your hair, or apply conditioners not recommended by your doctor. It is best to consult your doctor before going to the hairdresser.
- Smoking, drinking alcohol and sexual activity should be avoided for up to four days after the treatment.
- A return to sport and physical activity is possible after twenty-one days.
Hair transplantation and sport – when can I start exercising again?
As we already know, an immediate return to sport in whatever form (professional, amateur or professional) after hair transplantation is not possible. This is for a number of reasons. Sport involves movement of the head, unconsciously touching it repeatedly. During sport we sweat, and then very often we rub the sweat from our forehead and face with our hand. The area of the transplanted area is sensitive and such activities should be avoided. Sport means washing your hair. Physical activity means increased exertion, forceful movements and determination. Under no circumstances should we expose the scalp to pressure, pressure, touch, rubbing, the possibility of a blow, a fall or a cut.
Adequate blood flow is extremely important for proper recovery after hair transplantation. A normalised blood flow, for example, helps wounds to heal. Exercise causes a load-dependent increase in systolic blood pressure. Too much blood flowing to the head and an increase in blood pressure in the newly operated area has a very negative effect on this area, as it can damage new hair follicles.
A return to physical activity should occur in phases 21 days after the procedure. In the case of professional athletes, it is best to agree with your doctor on a suitable time to return to activity and training.
