exposure to the sun, 3 weeks post-op, no hat but had sunscreen

[secondtryuser]

Hi,

 

During a hot sunny day (86 degrees fahrenheit) with no clouds, 3 weeks FUE post op, if wearing factor 50, and reapplied throughout the day, will it be ok to not wear a hat? I'm hosting something work-based, and I really can't wear a hat, but sunscreen is no problem.

 

Thanks very much

[YouOnlyLiveOnce]

It's not worth the risk in my opinion. You could end up with permanent redness or potentially damage the new grafts. The skin is still really weak and healing at this point.

[TakingThePlunge]

Three weeks is very early. I'd also suggest avoiding direct and prolonged sun exposure for several more weeks. What does your hair transplant surgeon advise?

[Speegs]

That's not ideal, probably not catastrophic if you mitigated exposure, but let's error on the side of caution in the future for the peace of mind that you're doing everything in your power not to accidentally thwart the final results.

[gillenator]

Is it possible to get under a large table umbrella or something like that where you are not directly exposed to the sun?

[secondtryuser]

Thanks for your replies guys! I will have to try hard to avoid the event.

[pkipling]

Is there any way you can wear a hat that's somewhat more professional than a typical cap? I was able to wear one of those 50s style paper boy hats at work for a month or so after my HT. I just told my employers I had a medical procedure and needed to keep my scalp covered and nobody asked any questions.

[mattj]

I agree with those who have said that it's best to avoid strong sunlight at such an early stage, especially for prolonged periods.

 

I know that it's impossible for any of us to know the inner workings of your job, what is expected of you and how much power you have to influence the event, but it would be a shame to have to avoid it. It seems that, as the host, you have some control over things and could organize the event in such a way that your head is protected. Like pkipling said, there are types of hat that aren't as sloppy as a typical cap.

 

Your transplant is important, the event sounds important too, and I think you'd be amazed at what people can accept.

[gillenator]

All you really need to say if anyone asks is that you sunburn easily and are just protecting your head and leave it at that...doubtful that anyone would have any issues with that.