Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Hair Loss?
While chemotherapy drugs can be effective in killing cancer cells, they also damage normal cells that divide rapidly. This includes hair follicles, causing hair loss.
Chemo Drugs That Cause Hair Loss
Not all chemotherapy causes hair loss. Some chemotherapy drugs are known to often cause hair loss and hair thinning, while others may cause only a small amount of it.
When Does Chemotherapy Cause Hair Loss?
Hair loss from chemotherapy can begin as early as five days to two weeks after the first cycle. However, the most noticeable hair loss typically occurs between three and six weeks after starting treatment.
When Does Hair Loss Grow Back After Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy can cause permanent hair loss and hair thinning, but in most cases, the hair loss is temporary. Hair re-growth typically begins within three months of concluding chemotherapy.
Effect of Other Cancer Therapies
The newer targeted therapies for cancer don’t usually cause total hair loss like chemotherapy drugs but can result in changes such as thinning of the hair and dryness, as well as changes in texture similar to chemo curls.
How to Handle Hair Loss From Chemotherapy
There is no reliable way to completely prevent chemotherapy-related hair loss, but there are some therapies that may help reduce hair loss or help it regrow. They include scalp cooling, minoxidil, photobiomodulation therapy, and platelet-rich plasma injections.
Ways to Disguise Hair Loss if Desired
There’s no need to feel ashamed or pressured to hide hair loss. But, if you prefer to disguise it, there are options. Wigs, scarves, and hats offer both comfort and style during treatment. Hairpieces, such as toppers, makeup, and speciality sprays can mask thinning areas. The decision to embrace hair loss or explore these solutions is entirely personal and up to you.
Summary
Hair loss is a fairly common side effect of various chemotherapy drugs. The severity of hair loss depends on things like the specific drug used, whether drugs are used in combination, the dosage, and how it is given. Other types of cancer therapies can also have effects on hair.
While you may not be able to fully prevent hair loss or thinning, there are things you can do the reduce the risk and plan ahead for potential hair loss. Talk with your treatment team about the drugs you will be on and the risk of hair loss, and develop a plan to cope with it, should it happen.
