Week 3 After Hair Transplant: What to Expect and How to Take Care of Your Scalp

Three weeks after your hair transplant, you’re finally past the initial healing phase, and it’s normal to wonder, “Now what?” At this point, most patients are eager to see visible growth or worried about some shedding they didn’t expect. The good news? Week 3 is a transitional period that marks the shift from early healing to long-term hair growth. Here’s what you can expect and how to keep your scalp in great shape during this time.

Understanding Shock Loss: A Normal Part of Hair Transplant Recovery

If you’ve started noticing that the hairs in the transplanted area are falling out, don’t panic. This phase is called “shock loss” or “shedding phase,” and it’s a completely normal part of the hair transplant healing process. After a transplant, the newly implanted follicles enter a resting phase (called telogen), and the hair shafts shed to make room for new, stronger growth in the months ahead. Yes, it might feel disheartening to see hairs coming out, especially after all the anticipation and investment. But shedding during week 3 to week 4 is expected and doesn’t mean your hair restoration procedure has failed. The follicle itself remains intact and healthy beneath the scalp, preparing for new hair to grow. This is a natural part of the hair growth cycle that affects both the transplanted area and sometimes even surrounding native hairs.

What the Scalp Looks and Feels Like

By now, any redness, swelling, or scabbing should have mostly resolved. The scalp may still feel a bit sensitive or itchy—especially as nerves begin to regenerate and healing continues under the surface. Here are a few common sensations people report at this stage:

• Mild itchiness or tingling in the transplanted area
• Tightness in the donor area
• Slight numbness, which gradually improves

The appearance of your scalp typically looks relatively normal at this point. The short transplanted hairs may still be visible, though some may have fallen out during shock loss. Don’t worry about inconsistent density right now—it’s far too early to judge your final hair transplant results.

What You Can (and Can’t) Do During Week 3

By the third week, many patients feel ready to resume regular routines. While that’s true to a degree, there are still a few precautions to keep in mind. You can usually:

• Resume normal showering and use a mild shampoo
• Wear hats or head coverings without restriction
• Go back to most forms of light to moderate exercise
• Return to work and social activities with confidence

Still avoid:

• Direct sun exposure to the scalp without protection (wear a hat or use SPF)
• Harsh hair products (especially those with alcohol)
• Heavy sweating from intense workouts or saunas
• Scratching or picking at the scalp, even if it itches

Your surgeon may have given you specific instructions about topical solutions like minoxidil or finasteride. Don’t reintroduce these hair loss treatments unless you’ve been cleared to do so. Following your personalized aftercare plan is crucial for successful hair restoration.

When Will You See New Growth?

Here’s the part most patients are really wondering about. While some early growth might start to appear in the coming weeks, full regrowth typically begins around 3 to 4 months after the procedure. Hair grows in cycles, so patience is key. Many people see meaningful progress between months 4 and 8, with full results visible by 12 to 18 months. In other words, week 3 is still early days—your follicles are laying the groundwork behind the scenes.

Tips to Support Healthy Hair Growth and Results

  Even though it’s a waiting game, there are a few things you can do now to support your hair’s recovery and future growth:

Nutrition and Lifestyle:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and biotin
• Stay well-hydrated to support circulation and cellular repair
• Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours)—your body heals and regenerates during rest
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, which can restrict blood flow to the scalp and impair healing

Scalp Care:

• Gentle scalp massage (if cleared by your provider) to improve circulation
• Keep the scalp moisturized to prevent excessive dryness and itching
• Use recommended products only—stick to your surgeon’s approved shampoos and treatments

Follow-Up Care:

• Attend scheduled appointments to monitor your hair transplant healing process
• Document your progress with photos in consistent lighting
• Communicate concerns promptly with your hair restoration specialist

Final Thoughts

Week 3 after your hair transplant is a subtle but significant stage. While you may not see dramatic changes just yet, your scalp is actively transitioning toward growth. Focus on continuing proper care, managing expectations, and trusting the process. If you have any concerns—whether about shedding, itching, or how your scalp looks—don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider. Every person heals a little differently, and your doctor can help you navigate this journey with confidence. You’re well on your way—and in just a few months, the new growth will make all of this patience worthwhile.

Ready to Transform Your Hairline? Trust Seattle’s Leading Hair Restoration Surgeon

If you’re considering a hair transplant or currently navigating your recovery journey, choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference in achieving natural, lasting results. Dr. Javad Sajan at Hair Restoration Seattle is a board-certified plastic surgeon and diplomate of both the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, bringing world-class expertise to every hair restoration procedure.