Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment that can cause a range of side effects, including hair loss. Many people experience this side effect, and it can be a difficult thing to deal with. However, there are ways to minimise hair loss during chemotherapy. In this article, we'll take a look at how to do just that. Here's what we'll cover:
Table of Contents
- What is Chemotherapy?
- Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Hair Loss?
- How to Minimise Hair Loss During Chemotherapy
- Hair Care Tips During Chemotherapy
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer that involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs are typically administered through an IV or orally. Chemotherapy can be used to help shrink tumours before surgery, to kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery, or to help control the growth of cancer cells in advanced stages of the disease.
Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Hair Loss?
Chemotherapy drugs are designed to kill rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. However, they also affect other rapidly dividing cells in the body, including hair follicle cells. When these cells are damaged, hair growth is disrupted, and hair falls out.
How to Minimise Hair Loss During Chemotherapy
While it's not possible to completely prevent hair loss during chemotherapy, there are things you can do to minimise the amount of hair you lose. Here are some tips:
1. Use a Cold Cap
A cold cap is a tight-fitting cap that's worn on the head during chemotherapy. It works by reducing blood flow to the scalp, which in turn reduces the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach the hair follicles. This can help to minimise hair loss. Cold caps are available at many chemotherapy centres.
2. Consider Scalp Cooling
Scalp cooling is a newer technology that works by lowering the temperature of the scalp. This can also help to reduce blood flow to the scalp and limit the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach the hair follicles. Scalp cooling is not yet widely available, but it is becoming more common.
3. Start Treatment Early
Starting treatment early can help to reduce the amount of hair loss you experience. This is because hair follicles that are actively growing are more resistant to chemotherapy drugs than those that are dormant. Starting treatment early can help to ensure that more of your hair follicles are in the active growth phase.
4. Consider a Different Chemotherapy Drug
Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely to cause hair loss than others. If possible, your doctor may be able to prescribe a different drug that is less likely to cause hair loss.
5. Take Care of Your Hair
Taking care of your hair during chemotherapy can help to minimise hair loss. Here are some tips:
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
- Avoid using heat styling tools
- Avoid pulling or tugging on your hair
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair
- Avoid hair accessories that are tight or pull on your hair
Hair Care Tips During Chemotherapy
While you may not be able to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy, you can take steps to care for your hair during this time. Here are some tips:
1. Wash Your Hair Less Often
Washing your hair less often can help to minimise damage to your hair. Try to wash your hair no more than every other day or every few days.
2. Use a Mild Shampoo
Use a gentle, mild shampoo that's designed for sensitive scalps. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, that can further damage your hair.
3. Be Gentle When Drying Your Hair
When drying your hair, be gentle. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel, as this can cause damage. Instead, gently pat your hair dry.
4. Avoid Heat Styling Tools
Avoid using heat styling tools, such as blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons. These tools can further damage your hair.
5. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it's important to protect your scalp and any remaining hair from the sun's harmful rays. Wear a hat or scarf when you're outside, and avoid spending time in direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I definitely lose my hair during chemotherapy?
A: Not everyone will lose their hair during chemotherapy, but it is a common side effect. The amount of hair loss you experience will depend on the type of chemotherapy drugs you're receiving and your individual response to them.
Q: Is there anything I can do to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy?
A: While it's not possible to completely prevent hair loss during chemotherapy, there are things you can do to minimise the amount of hair you lose. See our section on "How to Minimise Hair Loss During Chemotherapy" for more information.
Q: Will my hair grow back after chemotherapy?
A: In most cases, hair will begin to grow back a few weeks after chemotherapy ends. However, it may take several months for your hair to return to its pre-chemotherapy thickness and texture.
Q: Can I dye my hair during chemotherapy?
A: It's best to avoid dyeing your hair during chemotherapy, as the chemicals in hair dye can further damage your hair. If you must dye your hair, talk to your doctor first.
Q: Can I wear a wig during chemotherapy?
A: Yes, many people choose to wear a wig during chemotherapy. Wigs can be made from synthetic or real hair, and they can be customised to suit your individual style and preferences.
Conclusion
While hair loss during chemotherapy can be difficult to deal with, there are things you can do to minimise the amount of hair you lose. By using a cold cap, considering scalp cooling, starting treatment early, taking care of your hair, and following our hair care tips, you can help to keep your hair as healthy as possible during this time.
