Why is sun exposure bad after hair transplant. Very confused. Would like a clear answer. PLEASE!

Question

I would like to know why sun exposure is bad. I see many conflicting anwers. Is it because it will cause skin discoloration? Or Is it because it will cause hair grafts to not grow? Or Both? different websites and doctors say different things and it is making me confused. I just want to know. I accidently went in the sun for 10 minutes on day 14 post op. And for my own peace of mind I want to know if its my skin that could be damaged or if my hair wont grow. More concerned of my hair.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Sun exposure is not recommended after surgery but if it already happened there isn't much you can do.  Ultraviolet light from the sun can permanently discolor your skin if the wound has not healed.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

A brief sun exposure at nearly 2 weeks post op is unlikely to damage grafts. By the 2 week mark, you should be returning to your baseline hair care regimen. Damage/loss of the grafts at this point will typically require an equally traumatic insult as the process that placed the grafts initially.
It is important to remember that exposed scalp will be sensitive to sun exposure and can more easily tan/burn/bleach. These changes can be permanent and thus it is advisable (irrespective of procedure) to take reasonable sun protection precautions.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.

John Kahen, MD · Answer

We typically recommend our patients stay away from any sun exposure for 90 days post transplant. Reason being is because it could potentially damage the grafted area as well as causing skin sensitivity on the grafted area of the scalp. If you are going to be out in the sun we recommend that you wear a hat.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Sun exposure can dry out the transplanted area, cause sunburn and skin damage, and impair healing.  However, a single ten-minute exposure two weeks after your procedure is unlikely to cause any problems.

Ilker Apaydin, MD · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your question. The sun exposure is not advised for the first 2 weeks after the surgery. The reasons for that are: The sun makes healing process weak and slow, also since you are fresh from the surgery, the sun might burn your skin, which will cause you some additional cosmetic issues such as sun burn marks or red dots. Since you were 14 days post op and spend only 10 mins under the sun, it should not be a problem. But my advice wear a hat whenever you go out doors, at least for 4 weeks post-op.

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Why is sun exposure bad after hair transplant. Very confused. Would like a clear answer. PLEASE!

Answers (6)

Answer: Sun exposure after hair transplantation

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Answer: Sun Light after FUE

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