Chemo Hair Products

Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer target not only cancer cells but also the healthy cells of the hair follicle. The hair loss, called alopecia, is difficult to predict. Some patients experience hair loss and others do not, even when taking the same drug. Hair loss is distressing to men and women, and usually begins from one to three weeks following the initiation of treatment. Hair grows back upon the completion of treatment within four to six months, although its texture and color may differ from the original hair.

Gentle Hair Care

• Use gentle hair care products, such as baby shampoo, rather than harsh shampoos. Brush with a soft baby brush and avoid using hair dryers, curling irons or heated curlers. Do not use perms or color, as the chemicals can damage the hair. Avoid dandruff shampoos, which can dry the scalp. Use a moisturizer or oil on a scalp that flakes or itches. Avoid ponytails, braids or other styles that pull the hair.

Scalp Hypothermia

• During scalp hypothermia or cryotherapy, ice packs are placed on the head to slow blood flow from the scalp. When blood flow is decreased, the amount of the drug affecting the hair follicles is decreased. Patients who receive scalp hypothermia sometimes experience headaches and have a small risk for cancer recurring in the scalp because the scalp does not receive the same amount of chemotherapy.

Minoxidil

• Minoxidil, originally approved for pattern hair loss in men and women, can be used before and during chemotherapy. Additional research is needed to confirm if minoxidil facilitates regrowing hair after chemotherapy.