How To Stop Your Hair Falling Out During Chemo

If you or someone you know is undergoing chemotherapy, one of the most common side effects is hair loss. This can be a difficult and emotional experience, but there are steps you can take to minimize it. In this article, we will go over how to stop your hair falling out during chemo, including tips, FAQ, and hair care advice to help you through this challenging time.

Table of Contents

1. How to
2. Step by Step
3. Tips
4. FAQ
5. Hair Care

How to

There is no guaranteed way to stop hair loss during chemotherapy, but there are some strategies that may help. Here are a few things to try:

1. Wear a Cold Cap

A cold cap is a tight-fitting cap that is chilled before, during, and after chemotherapy treatments. The cold temperature can help constrict the blood vessels in your scalp, which may reduce the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach your hair follicles. This can help prevent or reduce hair loss.

2. Use Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a topical medication that is used to treat hair loss. While it may not be effective for everyone, some studies have found that it can help reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. Talk to your doctor to see if this option is right for you.

3. Avoid Heat Styling

Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage your hair and make it more prone to breakage. During chemotherapy, it's important to avoid using these tools as much as possible. If you must use heat styling tools, use the lowest heat setting and apply a heat protectant spray first.

Step by Step

Here are step-by-step instructions for using a cold cap:

1. Before your chemotherapy treatment, put the cold cap in the freezer until it is frozen solid.
2. On the day of your chemotherapy treatment, put on the cold cap about 30 minutes before your treatment begins.
3. Wear the cold cap throughout your treatment and for at least 30 minutes afterward.
4. Remove the cold cap and let your scalp warm up before washing your hair.

Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you prevent hair loss during chemotherapy:

• Wash your hair less frequently, and use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
• Avoid hair dyes, perms, and chemical straighteners.
• Avoid tight hairstyles that can pull on your hair, like tight braids, ponytails, or buns.
• Consider wearing a wig or hairpiece.
• Use a soft-bristled brush or wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about hair loss during chemotherapy:

Does everyone lose their hair during chemotherapy?

No, not everyone loses their hair during chemotherapy. However, it is a common side effect.

When does hair loss occur during chemotherapy?

Hair loss typically occurs within the first few weeks of starting chemotherapy.

Will my hair grow back after chemotherapy?

Yes, in most cases hair will grow back after chemotherapy. However, it may be a different texture or color than before.

Hair Care

After chemotherapy, it's important to take care of your hair as it grows back. Here are some tips:

• Continue to use gentle shampoos and conditioners.
• Avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible.
• Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
• Be patient - it may take several months for your hair to grow back completely.

Remember, hair loss during chemotherapy can be a difficult experience. Be kind to yourself and know that you are not alone. Talk to your doctor or a support group if you need additional help or resources.