How to Treat Hair Loss From Chemotherapy

Hair loss from chemotherapy affects men and women and can involve scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, underarms, pubic hair, and facial and skin hair. Hair loss typically starts 10 to 14 days after beginning treatment and continues for as long as a month after treatment ends. Most of the time, hair loss is temporary. Hair usually begins to regrow four to six weeks after therapy ends and grows back completely in 6 to 12 months. While there is no sure way to prevent hair loss, there are things you can do to try to limit or cope with hair loss.

Instructions

• 1

  Plan ahead before you start chemotherapy. Treat your hair gently. Don't color or bleach your hair or get a permanent. Don't use curling irons, hot rollers, or blow dryers. Air dry your hair, and don't wash it every day. Consider cutting your hair to make it look fuller and to make hair loss less noticeable. Think about purchasing a scarf, turban, cap, wig, or hairpiece.

• 2

  Talk with your oncologist about using minoxidil (Rogaine®) during and after treatment. While minoxidil doesn't prevent hair loss, there is some evidence that it can speed regrowth. Consider false eyelashes or permanent makeup if you have lost eyebrows or eyelashes.

• 3

  Ask your oncologist if you can use a cold cap during chemotherapy. Although the cap can be uncomfortable, cooling the scalp can help prevent hair loss with some drugs.

• 4

  Treat your hair gently. Use a soft brush, mild shampoo, and a good conditioner. Wash your hair only when necessary.

• 5

  Be aware that your hair's color and texture may be different when it begins to grow back, but it should be back to normal in three to six months. Scalp hair grows back faster than eyebrows and eyelashes. Talk with a beauty expert about the best shampoo, conditioner, mousse, gel, and other products for your new hair growth. Seek a support group or talk with a counselor if you have difficulty dealing with hair loss.