Feel Itching After Hair Transplant? Here is the Reason Why

  Medically reviewed & verified by Dermatologists at: Avrupa Hair Transplant Clinic

Written by: ClinicAdvisor

Hair transplants are often associated with a feeling of scalp itching that usually starts during the first week. 

This is a common side effect after hair transplant which usually goes away after a couple weeks. But in some cases, itching can persist for up to a month. 

In this article, we will address the causes of itching after hair transplant, how to get rid of it and for how long it lasts.

What is Itching After Hair Transplant?

Itching is an irritating sensation that makes someone want to scratch their skin. It differs in levels, sometimes it could be mild and other times it’s intense and not bearable. 

After a hair transplant you will experience this itchy sensation on your scalp but you won’t be able to scratch your head. So, what causes itching? 

Causes of Itching After Hair Transplant

There are multiple causes of itching after hair transplant surgery that we will highlight in this article. We'll start with the most common to the least:

#1 Scabs

Scabs are hard layers of crust that form on the wounds (incisions) in the recipient site. 

They are part of the natural process of wound healing and they protect it from infections. Scabs after hair transplantThe scabs will eventually fall out after hair transplant and it takes two weeks for them to be completely gone.

And since the scabs are forming on the wounds it makes the scalp dry which leads to itching. 

That’s why it’s important to moisturize the scabs before washing your head and this will reduce the tingling sensation. 

#2 Micro wounds

Another major reason for the itchy feeling after hair transplant is due to the wounds on the head. 

During the procedure, grafts are extracted from the donor area which leaves puncture holes. Day 2 after hair transplant: Micro wounds in donor areaAfter that, incisions are made on the recipient site during the implantation phase.

These micro holes (incisions) will start to heal and during the healing process it causes an itchy sensation that could sometime be intense. 

#3 Hair Roots and Growth

The newly transplanted hair roots and the hair growth could cause an irritation to the scalp. 

This irritation after hair transplant makes you feel itchy and want to scratch your head. But don’t!!

Because scratching could lead to bleeding and infections as well as a risk of dislodging the grafts.

#4 Allergic Reaction

Some people might develop allergy to certain products that are used to wash the head after hair transplant. 

Especially if patients use some products other than the ones prescribed by the doctor. 

This can cause itching in both the recipient and donor area.

#5 Infection

Itching may also arise due to infection after hair transplant. Not following a hygienic routine during the recovery period will cause infections. 

Remember that the scalp after hair transplant has thousands of micro holes which can be easily infected if not taken care of properly. 

#6 Release of Histamines

Histamines are chemicals which are released by the body into the scalp in order to repair the skin. These chemicals contribute to the feeling of itching.

In order to reduce these histamines your doctor may prescribe an anti-histamine medication.

Is Itching After Hair Transplant Normal? 

Feeling itchy after hair transplant is normal and there is nothing to worry about. 

It is a way for the skin to repair itself and heal the micro wounds on the scalp.  

Itching normally lasts for up to 1 month but in some cases, it could last for a few months. 

In this case, it’s best to consult your doctor as it could be a sign of another skin condition like dermatitis.

How to Get Rid of Itching After Hair Transplant?

In some cases, the itching is so intense that patients feel the urge to scratch. 

But since scratching after hair transplant is not allowed as it can damage the grafts, cause bleeding or lead to infections, there are a few ways in which you can reduce itching:

• Wash your scalp as instructed: washing your hair properly using a medicated shampoo will help soften the scabs and hence reduce itching.
• Keep your scalp moisturized: another way to stop itching after hair transplant is to use the moisturizing lotion given to you by the clinic. This will make your scalp less dry and relieve itching as well.
• Use saline water: spraying saline solution (salt water) will prevent the scalp from being dry and keep the scalp clean. Make sure to use a spraying bottle or you can find saline sprayer in any pharmacy. 
• Use Anti-Histamines: histamines are chemicals released into the scalp to repair the skin which can contribute to itchiness. Using an anti-histamine drug will help alleviate itchiness as much as possible. 
• Using Steroids: some patients report extreme itching after hair transplant which is unbearable. In this case steroids can be used to reduce itchiness. 

Reminder!
Make sure not to use any medications without consulting your doctor first. 

How Long Does Itching Last After Hair Transplant?

Itching after hair transplant starts within the first week; especially when the scabs start to form on the wounds. This persists for 2 weeks and in some patients, it could take up to a month. 

In rare instances, some patients complain from having an itchy scalp 2 months after hair transplant. 

If that’s the case we recommend consulting your doctor as this could be a skin condition like dermatitis. 

Donor Area Itching After Hair Transplant

Many patients will experience donor area itching after hair transplant which is a common side effect. 

Again, the itching will fade away within 2-4 weeks but if during this period you need to do something to reduce it, you can spray saline or use an ointment such as Prednol. 

Itchy Bumps After Hair Transplant

Itchy bumps after hair transplant mostly appear on the donor area. 

These bumps or pimples that appear after hair transplant occur for different reasons including new hair growth, ingrown hair, excessive sebum production or poor hygiene. 

Try not to pop them and instead get your doctor’s consultation on how to treat these pimples.  

Frequently Asked Questions