How to Deal With Chemotherapy Hair Loss

Losing your hair can be a traumatic side effect of chemotherapy. Fortunately, you have lots of options for dealing with hair loss and making this time as physically and emotionally comfortable as possible. Depending on your grooming routine, you may want to follow all of these tips, or just one or two. Whatever you decide to do, remember that you are in charge of your personal look--and that hair does grow back once chemotherapy is finished.

Things You'll Need

• Wig
• False eyelashes
• Eyebrow pencil
• Gentle shampoo
• Hair net
• Satin pillowcase
• Hats, scarves, turbans

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your hairstylist. She may suggest a shorter haircut, as shorter hair has more body (although if you want a wig made from your natural hair, keep it long. See Step 2). If you get a haircut, save a lock of hair for a color reference.

• 2

  Buy a wig. If possible, visit a wigmaker before you start chemotherapy. If you have long hair, you can have a wig made from your own hair. However, synthetic hair is easier to maintain than natural hair. If your hair is shorter, the wigmaker can copy your original hairstyle. Buy two wigs if you want to wear both a casual and a formal hairstyle. Speak to your doctor about getting a prescription for your wig, as insurance may cover the cost.

• 3

  Buy sets of false eyelashes and invest in a good brow pencil. Eyelashes and eyebrows can also be affected by chemotherapy.

• 4

  Treat your hair with tender loving care. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals---baby shampoo is a good choice---and don't overuse your brush. Use a wide-toothed comb to avoid pulling hair. Air-dry your hair instead of using a hair dryer. Curling and straightening hair speeds up hair loss, so use curlers and straighteners sparingly. Braiding and wearing ponytails or pigtails pulls hair at the root, so keep ponytails loose or wear your hair down.

• 5

  Use a hairnet when you sleep. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase also helps reduce hair loss.

• 6

  Shave your head. Shaving hair reduces scalp irritation from hair loss. It may also be emotionally easier to change your appearance all at once than gradually lose your hair.

• 7

  Shop for head coverings. Head coverings hide hair loss and keep your scalp warm. There is a huge selection of scarves, turbans and hats available, some specially designed for people undergoing chemotherapy (see Resources below).