Sun after 6 months post op?

[kimura50]

For the first 6 months of my post op phase I was extremely strict about covering my hair at all costs when I was outside. Even if it was a quick 10/15 minute walk somewhere.

Now that I'm past the 6 month phase my Dr. (who is highly regarded on this board) has said it's ok for me to let my hair get some sunshine. Though I have heard others say it's 12 months minimum before you should be exposing your hair.

Thoughts? I'm not talking 4 hours on the beach or fishing, talking 30 minutes or less walking around. Basically what I would do pre surgery. And usually just out of habit I'll duck in and otnof shade where it's available too.

Edited September 18, 2018 by kimura50

[Dr. Glenn Charles]

At 6 months you should be safe to be outside without a hat on. Especially if your only talking about 30 minutes or less. It is more about the skin exposure not so much the hair exposure. 

[gillenator]

It also helps to pay attention to UV rating of the sun...the higher it is, the more protection we need and I'm speaking in general terms including the risk of sunburn.

[Dazed]

Other than just your hair we need to be aware of skin cancer.  After all these years in the sun I now avoid it, and not just because of hair.

[pkipling]

I think you're fine at this point as well - especially assuming you have hair at this point covering a good portion of your scalp. Each doctor has their own guidelines, but 6 months is what we tell our patients as well. 

Still be mindful of the sun as you normally would, but in terms of your HT, I think it's fine to let your guard down a little bit. 

[Speegs]

Protecting your scalp from sun damage at all times is advisable, you probably wouldn't impact the grafts at this late stage, but a sunburned scalp, in general, is not good for you.