Can I use Minoxidil Topical 5% solution after FUE treatment? (photo)

Question

I had a hair transplant of 4000 grafts (FUE method) 8-10-2016 from india. i hv seen der r so many cracks on transplant area after 10 days. i was so worried n went to my doctor . she said to use minoxidil topical 5% solution . but i m afraid to use it .. can u please suggest me to use it or not ??? a

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Minoxidil is generally not recommended after surgery.  Some doctors may recommend it.  If you have issues it is best to follow your doctor's advice.  You trusted your doctor for your surgery, trust your doctor for follow up questions.

Michael Wolfeld, MD · Answer

Minoxidil can be used 10 days following your FUE procedure in the transplanted region without causing harm to the grafts, as they are permanently in place.  However, the propylene glycol in the minoxidil solution may be irritating to the skin.  If you have used it before, I would wait a while before restarting. If you have not used it in the past, you may be sensitive to it. I would talk to your doctor about this.

Gregory Michael Bazell, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, I'd suggest you soak your head for 10-15 minutes to loosen all the scabs. The scalp tends to be drier after a procedure. I tell patients they can resume Minoxidil once the scabs are off but it will likely make the scalp drier. You can try to leave a small amount of conditioner in the scalp to help with the dryness.

Ilker Apaydin, MD · Answer

I would advice my patients to start finasterid from the third week after a hair transplant  . But note that each doctor may have their own routine for post op care. Better to contact your surgeon for   recommendations . All the best

Rae Lynne Kinler, MD · Answer

if the surgeon who did your transplant suggests that you use it, then use it. typically 10 days after FUE is a good time to start this. From the photos it looks like you still have a lot of scabbing, be sure to follow closely your post op instructions for washing.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

What you are seeing is poor washing techniques which show crusts that are 'cracking' and should have been washed off in the first day or two. Now use a shampoo and leave it on your scalp for 10 minutes each time and these crusts will get water logged and eventually fall off

Michael Meshkin, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

It is safe to  start using hair care products such as minoxidil after a week without any worries.

Cory Torgerson, MD, PhD, FRCSC - Account Suspended · Answer

I recommend that our patients do not use Monoxodil for at least 1-2 months after the transplant as Monoxodil can dry out the transplant area. But highly recommend resuming the application of it after 2 months.

Can I use Minoxidil Topical 5% solution after FUE treatment? (photo)

Answers (8)