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Chemotherapy and Alopecia Prevention

One major side effect of chemotherapy treatment for cancer is alopecia, or hair loss. This occurs because the goal of chemotherapy is to destroy fast-growing cancer cells. Unlike many other cells in the body, hair cells grow quickly and therefore are affected by chemotherapy. Fortunately, when chemo has ended, hair will grow back. However, there are some steps you can do to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy.

  1. Cold Cap

    • The best way to preserve your hair during chemotherapy is to prevent the drugs used from getting to your scalp. Some people wear a cold cap during treatment, which works by keeping the head cold and slowing blood circulation to the scalp. In theory, if the blood circulation is slowed down, it will restrict the chemo drugs from reaching the hair follicles. You will be required to wear the cap beginning 15 minutes before your treatment, during the treatment and then for one to two hours following.

    Function

    • The goal of the cold cap is to lower the temperature of the scalp to 68 degrees. While some people cannot tolerate the coldness while wearing the cap, it does restrict high doses of chemotherapy from reaching the hair follicles. Also, the cold cap is more effective with some chemo drugs than others, the most success derived when used with Docetaxel, Paclitaxel and Cyclophosphamide. According to cancernet.co, the cold cap has an 85 percent success rate.

    Other Tips

    • There are certain steps you can take at home that will reduce your chance of hair loss during chemotherapy. Choose a shampoo that is gentle and avoid using products or chemicals in your hair that will irritate your scalp. When brushing your hair, use a soft hairbrush to reduce the amount you pull out. Also, avoid using hair driers. It is better to allow your hair to dry natural as the use of a drier can make the hair brittle and easier to fall out.

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