Chemotherapy is a harsh treatment that can take a toll on your body, including your hair. Many people undergoing chemotherapy experience hair loss or thinning, but there are steps you can take to care for your hair and scalp during this time. Here are some tips on how to care for your hair during chemotherapy.
How to
1. Use a gentle shampoo
During chemotherapy, your hair may become dry and brittle. It's important to use a gentle shampoo that won't further strip your hair of its natural oils. Look for shampoos that are free of sulfates and parabens, as these can be harsh on your scalp.
2. Avoid heat styling
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons can further damage your hair during chemotherapy. Try to avoid using these tools and instead opt for a more natural hair style. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray and keep the heat at a low setting.
3. Protect your scalp from the sun
Chemotherapy can make your scalp more sensitive to the sun. Whenever you go outside, wear a hat or scarf to protect your scalp from the sun's rays.
4. Avoid hair dyes and chemical treatments
Chemical treatments like hair dyes and perms can be harsh on your hair and scalp, especially during chemotherapy. Avoid these treatments and opt for more natural hair care options.
5. Keep your hair and scalp moisturized
Chemotherapy can cause your scalp to become dry and itchy. To combat this, use a moisturizing conditioner and scalp treatments to keep your hair and scalp hydrated.
Step by Step
1. Choose a gentle shampoo
Look for shampoos that are free of sulfates and parabens, as these can be harsh on your scalp.
2. Avoid heat styling
Try to avoid using heat styling tools and opt for a more natural hair style.
3. Protect your scalp from the sun
Wear a hat or scarf whenever you go outside to protect your scalp from the sun's rays.
4. Avoid hair dyes and chemical treatments
Avoid these treatments and opt for more natural hair care options.
5. Keep your hair and scalp moisturized
Use a moisturizing conditioner and scalp treatments to keep your hair and scalp hydrated.
Tips
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair instead of a brush.
- Try a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction on your hair.
- Use a leave-in conditioner to help protect your hair from damage.
- Consider wearing a wig or hairpiece if you feel self-conscious about your hair loss.
FAQ
What should I do if my hair falls out during chemotherapy?
If your hair falls out during chemotherapy, remember that it's a temporary side effect. You can choose to wear a wig or hairpiece or go bald if that's what makes you feel most comfortable.
Will my hair grow back after chemotherapy?
Most people's hair will grow back after chemotherapy, although it may look and feel different for a while. It may be thinner or have a different texture, but it should eventually return to its pre-chemotherapy state.
Can I color my hair during chemotherapy?
It's best to avoid hair dyes and chemical treatments during chemotherapy, as they can be harsh on your hair and scalp. If you must color your hair, talk to your doctor first and be sure to use a gentle, non-toxic hair dye.
Hair Care
Remember that caring for your hair during chemotherapy is just one aspect of your overall health and well-being. Be sure to take care of yourself in other ways, such as eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest, and staying active. With time and patience, your hair will grow back and you'll feel like yourself again.
