Washing & Scab Removal: Day-by-Day Guide with Photos (0–14 Days)

Publish Date: 6 October 2025

The first two weeks after a hair transplant are critical for healing and protecting your grafts. Patients often worry about hair transplant scabs, when the first wash after hair transplant should be done, and how to approach scab removal after hair transplant safely. These concerns are normal, and understanding the correct routine makes recovery much smoother.

Scabs are part of the natural scalp healing stages. They form as tiny blood clots around each graft, helping to protect follicles during the early days. However, if they stay too long or are removed improperly, they can increase the risk of graft dislodgement or delay healing. That is why knowing the hair transplant washing day by day process is essential.

In this guide, we break down washing hair after hair transplant and scab removal into a clear day-by-day hair transplant washing guide. From day 0 to day 14, you will learn exactly how to care for your scalp, what washing techniques to use, and when to wash after hair transplant without damaging results. The article also covers how to deal with issues like scabs not falling off after hair transplant or when patients ask “is it normal to have scabs after 14 days hair transplant?”

“Proper washing is not just about hygiene. It supports graft survival and helps patients achieve the best possible outcome by protecting follicles during their most fragile stage.” — Dr. Mehmet Erdoğan

By the end, you will understand the full hair transplant scab removal timeline, how to use a gentle shampoo hair transplant routine, and why it is important to avoid picking scabs hair transplant. With the right approach, you will protect the follicle survival rate and ensure long-term results.

Hair Transplant Washing & Scab Removal Timeline (0–14 Days)

Healing & Scab Basics: What to Expect (Days 0–3)

The first three days after surgery are when your scalp begins the earliest scalp healing stages. Tiny blood clots form around each follicle, creating hair transplant scabs that protect grafts while they settle into the skin. This process is completely natural and an important part of the graft healing timeline.

During this period, your scalp may feel tight, and small crusts appear. These are often mistaken for infection, but they are a normal part of post-op scabbing hair transplant recovery. Patients sometimes notice redness or mild swelling, which is simply a sign of the body’s inflammatory response after graft placement.

It is essential not to disturb the grafts during this phase. Washing is usually postponed until at least Day 3, depending on the clinic’s advice. If you are wondering when to wash after hair transplant, the answer is not immediately. Water, rubbing, or shampooing too soon can lead to graft dislodgement risk, which may affect the follicle survival rate.

Here’s what you should focus on in Days 0–3:

• Keep the scalp completely dry
• Avoid scratching or touching the grafts
• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling
• Follow your surgeon’s guidance for pain relief or medication

The donor area healing also begins at this stage. You may notice mild oozing or crusting at the back of the head, which will settle within a few days. Both donor and recipient sites need protection during this time to ensure stable grafts.

“The first 72 hours are when grafts are most delicate. Patients should resist any urge to touch or clean the scalp. Patience in these days pays off with stronger healing later.” — Dr. Gökay Bilgin

Days 3–6: First Gentle Washes & Softening Crusts

From the third day onward, patients usually begin the first wash after hair transplant. This stage is crucial because washing supports hygiene, reduces crust build-up, and prepares scabs for safe shedding later in the hair transplant scab removal timeline. The goal is not to remove scabs yet but to soften them gradually.

How to Wash Hair After Transplant

The washing routine during this phase should always be gentle. Use a gentle shampoo hair transplant product recommended by your surgeon. Many patients ask how to wash hair after transplant without harming grafts. The correct technique is simple:

• Mix shampoo with water in your hand or a cup
• Pour the diluted solution slowly over the scalp
• Pat lightly with fingertips without rubbing
• Rinse with low-pressure, lukewarm water
• Pat dry with a soft towel, never rubbing the scalp

Why Washing Is Important

Scabs are a protective layer, but if they become too thick or dry, they can delay healing. Gentle washing during Days 3–6 keeps scabs soft and manageable. It also prevents infection risk by keeping the scalp clean. Patients often ask “how to soften scabs after hair transplant?” The answer lies in consistent, careful washing rather than scratching or forceful removal.

What to Avoid

• Do not pick at scabs or rub the scalp
• Avoid strong water pressure directly on the head
• Skip hot water or harsh shampoos that may cause irritation
• Stay away from hats or tight coverings that may disturb grafts

The hair transplant washing schedule in this period typically involves one wash per day, following the instructions provided by your clinic. This stage marks the beginning of the hair transplant aftercare washing routine that continues throughout the first two weeks.

“The first washes are more about protection than cleaning. Patients should think of them as a way to hydrate the scalp and prepare scabs for safe removal later.” — Dr. Mehmet Erdoğan

By Day 6, scabs should feel softer, but they are not ready to shed completely. The next phase is where scab shedding day 7–10 hair transplant care becomes the main focus.

Days 7–10: Scab Detachment Window (Main Removal Phase)

Between Days 7 and 10, most patients experience the most important stage of the hair transplant scab removal timeline. This is when scabs begin to loosen and fall off naturally. The goal is safe and controlled scab removal after hair transplant without harming grafts or slowing the healing process.

Washing Technique in This Phase

During these days, washing becomes slightly more active while still gentle:

• Apply gentle shampoo hair transplant directly to the scalp and leave it for 5–10 minutes to soften scabs.
• Use fingertips in circular motions to carefully massage the area. This is the safest method of how to remove crusts after hair transplant.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water at low pressure.
• Pat dry instead of rubbing.

This approach allows scabs to detach naturally without putting follicles at risk.

What to Expect

• Scab shedding day 7–10 hair transplant is considered normal.
• Some hairs may shed together with scabs, which is often mistaken for graft loss but is usually just part of the natural shock loss vs scab loss process.
• The scalp may still show redness, but this gradually improves as scabs fall off.

What to Avoid

• Avoid picking scabs hair transplant under any circumstance. Forcefully removing them can damage the follicle and affect the follicle survival rate.
• Do not scratch even if itching increases slightly, since this is part of the scalp healing stages.
• Do not use nail pressure, combs, or hard towels.

“By Day 10, the majority of scabs should shed with proper washing. Patients who follow daily washing routines rarely face complications.” — Dr. Gökay Bilgin

If you notice scabs not falling off after hair transplant despite daily washes, continue the gentle washing routine and consult your clinic. Asking “when can I remove scabs after hair transplant?” is common, and the answer is that scabs should be removed gradually through washing, never by force.

Days 11–14: Final Shedding & Return to Normal Washing

By Days 11 to 14, most patients will notice that the majority of hair transplant scabs have already detached. This phase is where the scalp feels cleaner, smoother, and closer to its normal state. It is also when patients gradually shift from delicate aftercare to a more regular washing routine while still respecting the healing process.

What to Expect

• Remaining scabs are usually thin and should come off easily during washing.
• The donor area healing is typically well advanced, with redness and crusts fading.
• Some patients still notice small scabs that cling beyond Day 14, raising questions like “is it normal to have scabs after 14 days hair transplant?”. In most cases, this is not harmful, but it should be monitored closely.

Washing Routine

• Apply gentle shampoo hair transplant and massage slightly more firmly with fingertips to encourage the last scabs to shed.
• Rinse with a normal flow of lukewarm water, no longer needing the ultra-low pressure used earlier.
• Dry with a soft towel by dabbing rather than rubbing.
• At this stage, you can begin transitioning to your usual shampoo, but it is best to confirm with your surgeon first.

Signs to Watch

If scabs remain despite daily washes, or if redness worsens instead of improving, consult your doctor. Persistent crusting may be linked to slower scalp healing stages or an inflammatory response after graft placement. Patients sometimes ask “why are my scabs not gone after 2 weeks hair transplant?” The most common reasons are either insufficient softening during washing or individual differences in skin healing speed.

“By the end of the second week, scabs should naturally disappear with careful washing. If they persist or come with unusual redness, a follow-up consultation is recommended.” — Dr. Mehmet Erdoğan

At this point, the focus shifts from hair transplant aftercare washing to supporting long-term recovery and the follicle survival rate. Properly handled, the scalp is ready to continue healing without the protective crusts.

When Scabs Persist Beyond Day 14 or Unusual Cases

Most patients see their hair transplant scabs disappear by the end of the second week. However, some individuals notice scabs not falling off after hair transplant even after 14 days. While this can cause concern, it is not always a complication. Healing speed varies between patients, and factors like skin type, circulation, and how well aftercare instructions are followed can influence results.

Common Reasons for Delayed Scab Shedding

• Dry or thick scabs that were not fully softened during earlier washes
• Incomplete adherence to the hair transplant washing schedule
• Stronger inflammatory skin response after graft placement
• Natural variation in the graft healing timeline
• Over-caution with washing, leading to insufficient cleansing

What to Do If Scabs Remain

If you are asking “is it normal to have scabs after 14 days hair transplant?” the answer is that it can be normal in some cases. However, it is important to:

• Continue washing daily with a gentle shampoo hair transplant
• Spend extra time soaking scabs before rinsing
• Use fingertip massage to encourage loosening without force
• Contact your surgeon if scabs persist beyond Day 16–18 or if redness and swelling increase

Warning Signs to Seek Help

Scabs that do not shed may sometimes indicate an issue. Watch for:

• Intense redness spreading around scabs
• Swelling or pus discharge
• Pain or tenderness beyond the expected hair transplant recovery days
• Signs of graft dislodgement risk if scabs were forcefully removed earlier

“Persistent scabs are usually harmless, but they can become problematic if ignored. A simple follow-up check allows doctors to guide patients on safe scab removal methods.” — Dr. Gökay Bilgin

Unusual cases highlight the importance of following proper follicular unit extraction aftercare. Every patient heals differently, but maintaining gentle care and knowing when to ask for professional support ensures that even delayed scab shedding does not compromise the follicle survival rate.

Technique Tips & Product Choices

The way you approach washing hair after hair transplant and handling scabs directly affects both comfort and final results. Proper technique ensures safe scab removal after hair transplant, protects grafts, and supports the long-term follicle survival rate.

Washing Technique After FUE/DHI

Patients often ask about the correct washing technique after FUE/DHI procedures. The main rule is to treat the scalp delicately while still cleansing thoroughly:

• Use lukewarm water with light pressure, never hot or high-pressure streams.
• Dilute shampoo with water before applying to avoid concentrated contact.
• Pour or dab gently, then massage with fingertips once scabs begin softening.
• Pat dry with a soft towel or air dry to avoid friction.

Choosing the Right Shampoo

Selecting the best product is essential for effective hair transplant aftercare washing. Most surgeons recommend a gentle shampoo hair transplant formula that is fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and designed for sensitive skin. Patients often ask “what is the best shampoo for washing after hair transplant?”. The answer is one that soothes without irritating and does not strip natural oils needed for healing.

How to Soften Scabs Safely

For patients wondering how to soften scabs after hair transplant, the method is simple:

• Apply diluted shampoo and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
• Use circular fingertip motions to gradually loosen scabs.
• Never scrape with nails, combs, or towels.
• If scabs resist, repeat the process daily rather than forcing removal.

What to Avoid

• Avoid alcohol-based or harsh cleansers that dry the scalp.
• Skip thick conditioners or oils in the first two weeks, as they may trap scabs.
• Do not use hats, helmets, or tight coverings until cleared by your doctor.
• Avoid picking scabs hair transplant, since this increases graft dislodgement risk and may affect the graft healing timeline.

“The right products and careful technique speed up recovery. When patients are consistent with gentle washing, scabs shed naturally without risking grafts.” — Dr. Mehmet Erdoğan

Visual Day-by-Day Photo Comparison / Gallery

Seeing the progress of hair transplant scabs across the first two weeks helps patients understand what is normal.

A day by day hair transplant washing guide with visuals gives reassurance and helps identify when things are going smoothly or if extra care is needed.

Day 0–2: Initial Healing

• Small blood clots and early post-op scabbing hair transplant visible
• Redness from inflammation after graft placement
• No washing yet, scalp remains dry
  (Photo: close-up of scalp with tiny scabs forming)

Day 3–6: First Gentle Washes

• Scabs become drier and slightly darker
• Early hair transplant aftercare washing begins with diluted shampoo
• Donor area healing visible as small crusts fade
  (Photo: scalp with softening scabs, clean donor area)

Day 7–10: Scab Shedding Phase

• Most scabs begin detaching naturally
• Some hairs fall out with scabs (normal shock loss vs scab loss)
• Scab shedding day 7–10 hair transplant is expected here
  (Photo: scabs partially shed, scalp clearer in treated area)

Day 11–14: Final Shedding

• Remaining scabs are thin and easy to remove with washing
• Scalp looks clearer, redness fading
• Signs of follicle survival rate success as skin returns to baseline
  (Photo: scalp mostly free of scabs, natural skin tone returning)

Beyond Day 14: Fully Clean Scalp

• All scabs shed, leaving smooth scalp
• Only minor redness may persist in some patients
• Ready for normal shampoo and routine washing
  (Photo: healthy scalp free of scabs, no visible crusts)

“Visual milestones help patients compare their own recovery. As long as scabs follow this general pattern, healing is usually on track.” — Dr. Gökay Bilgin

Common Questions / Troubleshooting

When can I remove scabs after hair transplant?

Scabs should not be picked or scratched. They usually start loosening naturally between Day 7 and Day 10 with proper washing. Gentle fingertip massage during shampooing is the safest method of safe scab removal hair transplant.

How to remove crusts after hair transplant without harming grafts?

The best way is daily softening with diluted shampoo and low-pressure lukewarm water. Using fingertips in circular motions is the safest approach. This ensures how to remove scabs without damaging grafts while supporting the follicle survival rate.

What if scabs are not falling off after hair transplant?

If scabs remain beyond Day 14, continue washing gently and allow extra time for soaking. Scabs not falling off after hair transplant is often related to individual healing speed. If scabs persist past Day 16–18, consult your surgeon.

Is it normal to have scabs after 14 days hair transplant?

Some patients may still see scabs at Day 14. This can be normal, especially with slower scalp healing stages. However, if redness, pain, or swelling is present, it may indicate delayed recovery or infection, and medical advice is recommended.

Why are my scabs not gone after 2 weeks hair transplant?

This usually happens if scabs were not softened enough during washing or if the patient was overly cautious with cleaning. It may also be linked to inflammation after graft placement. Persistent scabs should be evaluated by your clinic.

Can I pick scabs to speed up removal?

No. Avoid picking scabs hair transplant at all costs. Picking can cause graft dislodgement risk, scarring, or infection. Proper washing is the only safe way to shed scabs.

What shampoo is best for washing after hair transplant?

A gentle shampoo hair transplant formula that is sulfate-free, fragrance-free, and mild is ideal. Many clinics recommend baby shampoo or medical shampoos designed for sensitive skin.

Can I wash normally once scabs are gone?

After Day 14, most patients can transition back to their normal shampoo and routine. Still, aggressive rubbing or high-pressure shower streams should be avoided until cleared by the doctor.

Comclusion

The first 14 days after surgery are the most important part of hair transplant aftercare washing. Knowing how to handle hair transplant scabs and follow the right routine prevents complications and supports long-term results.

• First wash after hair transplant usually begins on Day 3 with a very gentle routine.
• Scab shedding day 7–10 hair transplant is normal. Scabs should be softened with shampoo and massaged off gradually, never picked.
• By Days 11–14, most scabs fall off naturally. Any remaining crusts should be handled with continued daily washing.
• If you experience scabs not falling off after hair transplant or still see crusts beyond two weeks, contact your clinic for guidance.
• Using a gentle shampoo hair transplant formula, low-pressure water, and fingertip massage ensures safe washing without risking graft dislodgement.
• Proper washing helps maintain the follicle survival rate, reduces infection risk, and supports healthy donor area healing.

“The key to recovery is patience and consistency. When patients follow the correct washing schedule, scabs shed naturally and grafts remain secure for strong results.” — Dr. Gökay Bilgin

Your recovery deserves the same care and attention as your procedure. If you are worried about scab removal after hair transplant, or unsure about the correct hair transplant washing schedule, remember that the right guidance makes all the difference.

At Smile Hair Clinic, our doctors and medical team provide patients with personalized washing and aftercare routines that protect grafts and promote natural results.

We guide you step by step through the washing hair after hair transplant process, making sure you know exactly when to wash after hair transplant, how to soften scabs safely, and how to avoid common mistakes.

If you still have questions such as “why are my scabs not gone after 2 weeks hair transplant?” or “how to remove scabs without damaging grafts?” our specialists are here to help. Book a consultation today to receive expert aftercare support and ensure that your hair transplant scab removal timeline stays on track for the best outcome.

Last Update: 6 October 2025