Going through chemotherapy can be a challenging time for anyone, and one of the common side effects of this treatment is hair loss. If you’re preparing for chemotherapy, you may be wondering how to look after your hair during this time. In this article, we’ll share some tips and frequently asked questions to help make this process a little easier.
How to
Here are some tips to help you look after your hair during chemo:
1. Moisturize your scalp
Chemotherapy can make your scalp dry and itchy, so it’s important to keep it moisturized. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or oil to massage into your scalp daily.
2. Use a gentle shampoo
Choose a shampoo that’s gentle and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. Look for shampoos that are designed for sensitive skin and avoid products with sulfates.
3. Avoid heat styling
Heat styling tools can damage your hair and make it more prone to breakage. During chemo, avoid using heat styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.
4. Protect your hair from the sun
Your scalp may be more sensitive to the sun during chemo, so it’s important to protect your hair and scalp with a hat or scarf.
Step by Step
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to look after your hair during chemo:
Step 1: Moisturize your scalp daily
Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or oil to massage into your scalp daily.
Step 2: Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo
Choose a shampoo that’s gentle and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. Look for shampoos that are designed for sensitive skin and avoid products with sulfates.
Step 3: Let your hair air dry
Avoid heat styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. Let your hair air dry instead.
Step 4: Protect your hair from the sun
Wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair and scalp from the sun.
Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you look after your hair during chemo:
1. Avoid hair dyes and chemical treatments
Avoid using hair dyes and chemical treatments during chemo, as they can damage your hair and scalp.
2. Use a soft brush
Use a soft brush to gently brush your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
3. Consider a wig or headscarf
If you’re uncomfortable with hair loss, consider wearing a wig or headscarf to help you feel more confident.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about looking after your hair during chemo:
Q: Will my hair grow back after chemo?
A: Yes, most people’s hair will grow back after chemotherapy, although it may be thinner or a different texture than before.
Q: How soon after chemo will my hair grow back?
A: Hair typically starts to grow back a few weeks after your last chemotherapy treatment, although it may take several months to grow back fully.
Q: Can I color my hair during chemo?
A: It’s best to avoid coloring your hair during chemo, as the chemicals in hair dye can be harsh on your scalp.
Q: Is it normal for my scalp to be itchy during chemo?
A: Yes, it’s common for your scalp to be dry and itchy during chemo. Use a gentle moisturizer or oil to help soothe your skin.
Hair Care
Looking after your hair during chemo can be challenging, but with these tips and tricks, you can help minimize damage and keep your scalp healthy. Remember to be gentle with your hair, avoid harsh chemicals, and protect your scalp from the sun.
By following these tips, you can help make the chemo process a little easier and feel more confident in your appearance.
