Day 10 after a hair transplant: scalp care and what to expect

Day 10 after a hair transplant marks a key turning point in scalp care. The scabs come off and a phase begins that’s focused on consistent daily care — supporting the growth of transplanted hair going forward.

Below, Dr José María Úbeda, hair surgeon and medical director of Clínica Alpha (Madrid), explains what this stage involves and how to handle it correctly.

Day 10 after a hair transplant: where real care begins

As a hair surgeon, I’ve accompanied hundreds of patients through the post-transplant process. One of the most significant — and least understood — milestones comes around day ten, when we remove the scabs that formed during skin healing after the incisions. The initial phase is behind you. But from this point, we need to be especially careful not to cause any discomfort to the skin or the treated areas. This is the starting point of a critical stage for consolidating transplant results.

From this moment, the scalp enters a phase of active renewal. The skin begins to stabilise, the transplanted follicles are firmly secured in place, and the tissue starts recovering its natural balance. From here on, care shifts away from protecting the graft in the immediate sense, toward creating a healthy, stable environment for the new hair to grow strong and complication-free.

What’s happening to the scalp from day 10

During the first days after the transplant, the scalp shows inflammation, redness, and scab formation. By day 10, the skin is beginning to normalise and the implanted follicles are secure enough for more confident handling. This is a time of cell renewal and improved circulation, which promotes oxygen and nutrient delivery to the grafts.

At this stage, the main goal is maintaining skin balance: preventing irritation, regulating hydration, and gently stimulating the area to support healing. It’s not about doing more — it’s about doing things right.

The daily care routine: cleansing, hydration, and protection

Cleansing

Hygiene remains essential. From day ten, use a shampoo designed for sensitive scalp after a hair transplant — applied with gentle movements and rinsed with lukewarm water. The goal isn’t just removing residue; it’s keeping the scalp clean and free of anything that could irritate it.

Technique matters too. See the guide on how to wash the scalp after a hair transplant to avoid common mistakes at this stage.

It’s also important to mentally prepare for the shedding of transplanted hair. The hair falls — the follicle stays. Understanding that distinction is key to staying calm through the process. For a full explanation, see the guide on shock loss after a hair transplant.

Hydration

Hydration takes on a more important role now. Freshly healed skin needs its protective barrier maintained. Light, soothing, non-comedogenic products help preserve elasticity without blocking the follicles.

Protection

Protection from external factors is essential. Sun and pollution can disrupt scalp balance — cover the scalp with a breathable cap whenever you’re outside.

It’s common to experience scalp itching at this stage. It’s a normal sign of healing, but it can worsen with the wrong products.

Patience and consistency: the real work

One of the things I stress most to my patients is patience. Hair growth is a slow biological process — the first visible changes usually appear between months 3 and 6. Daily consistency in care is what builds a natural, lasting result.

Every step, however simple it seems, contributes to the outcome: healthy skin, oxygenated follicles, a scalp free of irritants. There are no shortcuts. Progress is built day by day.

Conclusion

Day 10 marks the start of regular transplanted hair care. From here, the focus is on supporting the scalp with proper cleansing, balanced hydration, and consistent protection.

Following your hair surgeon’s instructions — combined with consistent daily care — gives you the best shot at the result you’re aiming for.

What truly makes the difference is conscious attention, regularity, and respect for the biological timing of hair growth, always under the guidance of your specialist.

Caring for your transplant doesn’t end with surgery. It begins when you commit to doing it with patience and consistency.

Dr José María Úbeda · Hair surgeon · Medical director, Clínica Alpha (Madrid)

FOLIC: the shampoo for daily transplanted hair care

From day 10, shampoo becomes the cornerstone of daily scalp care. FOLIC is formulated with physiological pH, no harsh surfactants, and no irritating ingredients — built to support sensitive scalp care from the first clinic-approved wash.

Shop FOLIC →

Common questions about day 10 after a hair transplant

What exactly happens on day 10 after a hair transplant?

It’s typically when the scabs are removed. The follicles are secured and the scalp can be handled more safely. Regular care with a shampoo designed for sensitive scalp begins here.

Is it normal for transplanted hair to fall out from day 10?

Yes. Shedding of transplanted hair in the first weeks is normal and part of the natural cycle. The follicle stays and new growth follows.

Which shampoo should I use from day 10?

One with physiological pH, no harsh surfactants, and no irritating ingredients — formulated for sensitive scalp. A hair transplant requires specific care from the very first wash.

When will I start seeing results?

The first visible changes usually appear between months 3 and 6. The final result is typically visible at around 12 months.

Is itching normal on day 10 after a hair transplant?

Yes. Itching is a common sign of healing in the first weeks. It can worsen if you use a shampoo not suited to a sensitised scalp.

View all hair transplant FAQs →