Is an umbrella enough to prevent the sun from damaging grafts? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I'm at 5 days post-op of a FUE procedure of 3,500 grafts. Today, I sat on my balcony under my umbrella to protect my scalp from the sun (16-17 C at 5PM) for 45 minutes. Now, I'm worried that UV rays have still been able to damage my scalp; the Ultraviolet Protection Factor of my umbrella is 50+, blocking 98% of the UV rays.As I have a light skin that burns quickly, I'm worried about an irreverscible damage. What do you think? I don't feel any warmth or itching on my scalp though. François

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Hello,
Sun exposure can damage your grafts. 5 days is early to go under the sun without wearing hat. Next time make sure you protect your head with a loose hat.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is best to contact your surgeon for post surgery issues and care since all doctors have slightly different instructions.

Edward P. Miranda, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your description of events we think there probably was enough UV protection from the sun even while the grafts are still "taking" to their donor site.  In the future if you'll be exposed to prolonged sun exposure use a loose fitting hat to cover you head.  And as always, don't forget to protect the rest of your skin, especially face, with sun screen.

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

The minimal exposure you may have had should not be a problem. Wearing a hat is a good idea for the next several weeks when you are out in the sun, but I would not worry about what already happened.

Salih Onur Basat, MD, EBOPRAS · Answer

Hello François,
After 4-5 days  the hair transplatation, implanted hair follicules keep the scalp. During this period you have to protest your scalp maximally. Generally indirect sun exposure does not affet the hair follicules. I  think this kind of sun exposure Will not cause any problem

Ilker Apaydin, MD · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your question. Umbrella might be an option, however you are still on your first week post op, and better to protect your transplanted area from direct sunlights.Since you applied protective cream, there should not be problem, but better to follow post-op instructions, and keep yourself away from sun at least for 2-3 weeks.

Sam Lam, MD, FACS, FISHRS · Answer

I think your careful attention is wonderful.  However, grafts are quite durable when placed so long as they are not soaked in dirty water for prolonged periods or rough handled.  If someone is going to be in the sun, I tell my patients to consider wearing a hat as a good protection from solar rays.  But I always caution patients who are immediately after a procedure by another surgeon to follow that surgeon's advice.

Robert Haber, MD · Answer

If you were indeed protected by the umbrella from direct exposure, there should not be any problem. Wear a loose fitting broad-brimmed hat when in the sun.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello, good question. I understand your concern but I think you’ll be okay. I do suggest in the future wearing a slight loose hat as it provides more protection from the sun.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Generally you are best wearing a hat after a hair transplant to protect your grafts from the UV light.  I think from what you are telling us, that everything will be fine

Is an umbrella enough to prevent the sun from damaging grafts? (Photo)

Answers (10)

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