Dealing With Hair Loss From Cancer Treatment: Care Instructions

Overview

Hair loss is a common and often distressing side effect of some cancer treatments. For many people, hair loss is one of the toughest aspects of treatment. Some people have mild thinning, while others lose all their hair. Hair loss may occur all over the body. If you do lose hair, it will almost always grow back after your treatment ends. But your hair might grow back a different color or texture. A person who had straight hair before treatment may find that they have curly hair afterward.

Not all chemotherapy medicines cause hair loss. Talk to your doctor about what you can expect.

During your treatment, you may be able to use haircuts to hide hair loss or to make the hair you have left look its best. You may want to wear scarves and hats. Wigs or hairpieces also are an option. Or you may feel more comfortable leaving your head uncovered. Some people switch back and forth, depending on whether they are in public or at home with friends and family members.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take good care of your scalp and the hair you have. Use a mild shampoo and a soft hairbrush.
• Air-dry your hair. If you have to use a hair dryer, use the low-heat setting.
• Think about cutting your hair short. A shorter style will make your hair look thicker and fuller. It also will make hair loss easier to manage if it occurs. If you choose to shave your head, use an electric shaver so you don't cut or nick your head while shaving.
• Sleep on a satin pillowcase. This will reduce friction on your scalp.
• Do not use brush rollers to set your hair.
• Do not dye your hair or get a permanent while you are taking chemotherapy or if you are getting radiation to your scalp.
• Use sunscreen or a hat, scarf, or wig to protect your scalp from the sun.
• If you choose a wig or hairpiece:
  • Shop for your wig or hairpiece before you lose a lot of hair so that you can match your natural color, texture, and style. You may be able to buy a wig or hairpiece at a specialty shop just for people with cancer. Often a salesperson will come to your home to help you. You also can buy a wig or hairpiece through the American Cancer Society’s catalog.
  • You may prefer to borrow rather than buy a wig or hairpiece. If so, call your local American Cancer Society or check with the social work department at your treatment center.
  • Remember that a hairpiece that you need because of cancer treatment is tax-deductible and may be at least partly covered by your health insurance. Check your policy, and ask your doctor to write a prescription for a “hair prosthesis.”