Cancer And Hair Loss

Chemotherapy hair loss is an unfortunate reality that many cancer
patients have to face. Chemotherapy hair loss is not caused by all
chemotherapy drugs, but it is a common after effect.

Chemotherapy hair loss may include scalp, facial, axillary, pubic and
body hair. Varying from slight thinning to complete loss of hair,
chemotherapy hair loss occurs over a period of days or weeks. After
completion of therapy, regrowth usually occurs in six to eight weeks.

Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy, but not all drugs
cause hair loss. Talk to your healthcare team about what to expect. In
most cases, your hair loss will be temporary.

If you start to lose your hair, you may find that it becomes thinner
or falls out entirely. It may be sudden or gradual. Hair loss can
occur on all parts of the body - you may lose the hair on your head,
some or all of your eyelashes and eyebrows, and body hair (including
pubic, chest and underarm hair). You may also notice that your scalp
feels tender.

Many people find that their hair starts to grow back before their
chemotherapy treatment is finished or very soon afterwards. Some
people find that their new hair is slightly different in colour or
texture.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America understands that chemotherapy hair
loss, and changes in skin and body can be devastating after effects of
cancer treatment. CTCA's Cosmetic Image Enhancement program helps
women and men prepare for radiation therapy and chemotherapy hair
loss. Image Enhancement program classes and seminars for you and your
loved ones are designed by community members, beauticians,
cosmetologists and salon personnel. These classes are designed to help
you plan ahead for chemotherapy hair loss.

Be gentle with your hair. Use a mild shampoo, a soft hairbrush and set
your hair dryer on low heat or let your hair dry naturally.

Get a shorter cut if you have long or medium-length hair. This will
make your hair look fuller and thicker. It might help to make any hair
loss less dramatic for you.

Avoid dyeing, perming or straightening your hair during treatment.
Talk to your healthcare team to find out when you can begin these
activities again.

Try wearing a scarf, turban or hat if you feel sensitive about

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