How to Regrow Hair After Chemotherapy

Losing your hair can be one of the hardest parts of undergoing chemotherapy. Chemotherapy damages hair follicles, causing hair loss. Happily, in almost all cases the hair follicles start working again after chemotherapy stops, and soon you will see hair regrowth. You don't need to do much to help your hair grow back---just let nature take its course. To make sure that your new hair stays in the best condition, follow these tips.

Things You'll Need

• Soft-bristled brush
• Gentle shampoo

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Instructions

• 1

  Wait. Hair takes anywhere from two weeks to three months to grow back after chemotherapy ends. The first hair to fall out is usually the first to grow back, so the hair on your scalp will probably reappear before eyebrows and eyelashes grow back.

• 2

  Be gentle. When your hair starts to grow back, it will probably be very fine and brittle at first. Use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle shampoo.

• 3

  Avoid heavy styling treatments, like perming or permanent hair dye. Your scalp is still sensitive, so treat it with care.

• 4

  Using minoxidil (Rogaine) may speed up hair growth after chemotherapy ends.

• 5

  Expect the unexpected. Many people find that their hair grows back differently after chemotherapy. It may be curly instead of straight, or change color.