How to Clean Crusts After Hair Transplant?

In this article, we provide information on how to clean crusts after hair transplant.

One of the most important issues encountered after a hair transplant operation is the crusts that appear as the incision areas begin to heal. Although crust formation is a natural consequence of hair transplantation, it is important to learn how to clean them without irritating the scalp or damaging the transplanted hair follicles.

Why Does Crusting Occur After Hair Transplantation?

A layer that forms on any damaged tissue or incisions of the skin during the healing process is called a crust. Crusts begin to form 24 to 72 hours after the procedure when bleeding and tissue fluids stop leaking from the incisions. Crusting after hair transplantation is an indication that the wounds on the scalp are starting to heal. Crusts, which are part of the body’s defense mechanism, act like a bandage, covering the incisions to protect them against bacteria.

To prevent excessive crusting, it is important to avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug use, as these substances can negatively affect wound healing and increase the risk of infection.

How to Cleaning Crusts on the Scalp?

Hair transplantation is the only permanent solution for receding hairlines and increased hair loss. However, there are many factors that need to be considered to achieve the fastest and most successful results from the procedure. Proper care after the procedure is crucial to prevent infection in the transplanted area. Otherwise, the risk of developing inflammation after the procedure could jeopardize the survival of the transplanted hair follicles.

How to clean crusts after hair transplant?

Cleaning crusts on the scalp carefully and gently after crusting is an important issue. The first step to clean crusts after hair transplant is washing the hair. The first hair wash is performed by the doctor at the hair transplant center. To remove the crusts on the scalp without damaging the newly transplanted hair, it is important to be gentle during the first and subsequent washings. Here’s how to do it:

• Apply a softening lotion to the donor area where the hair follicles were taken before washing. Wait for about 45 minutes to allow the lotion to penetrate all hair follicles.
• Applying pre-wash creams containing wound healing ingredients and ready-made gels before washing helps to soften the crusts completely. This way, the hard skin that forms can be removed without damaging the transplanted hair follicles.
• After removing the lotion from the scalp, pour some shampoo on the non-transplanted area, foam it up, and transfer the foam to the transplanted area with gentle movements.
• Rinse with warm water after cleaning the scalp with foam without rubbing it.
• After washing, gently dry the scalp with a soft towel, being careful not to rub it or apply pressure.

For more information, see also: Washing After Hair Transplant.

The scabs that form after a hair transplant usually disappear after 10 days of the procedure. However, in some patients, this period may extend up to 15 days. Therefore, if scabbing does not disappear within 10 days, it is necessary to wait a little longer without panicking.