Shedding Is Normal—And It’s a Good Thing
If you’ve started noticing that the hairs in the transplanted area are falling out, don’t panic. This phase is called “shock loss” and it’s actually a completely normal part of the process. After a transplant, the newly implanted follicles enter a resting phase (called telogen), and the hair shafts shed to make room for new growth in the months ahead.Yes, it might feel disheartening to see hairs coming out, especially after all the anticipation. But shedding during week 3 is expected, and it doesn’t mean the transplant has failed. The follicle itself remains intact beneath the scalp, preparing for new, stronger hair to grow.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
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
- 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
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 Growth
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:- Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D
- Stay hydrated to support circulation and cellular repair
- Get enough sleep—your body heals while you rest
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can restrict blood flow to the scalp
- Massage gently (if cleared by your provider) to improve circulation
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.