Hair Loss from Chemotherapy - how to cope....

Forward planning and devising a plan on how to manage hairloss prior to having your treatment is one of the best ways to cope with hairloss during and after chemotherapy?   

Total hair loss may not happen but being prepared for all your hair to fall out will allow you more inner peace if it does actually happen. Should you be planning to purchase a wig then it is best to do this before your therapy starts.

It is much easier to match your natural color and texture while you still have your hair.

Before starting therapy be kind to your hair. No bleaching, perming or coloring as it is likely to make it weaker. Also endeavour to avoid using heat on your hair such as dryers and curling irons.

Doing this will help prolong the loss of your hair as it will be healthier and in good condition. Another idea worth considering if you are about to be having chemotherapy is to consider having your hair cut. Short hair looks thicker than long hair and it won’t be so easily noticed as it starts to thin.

It may also make it easier on you and your emotions if your hair is short before it starts falling out. 

Other measures you can try while having chemotherapy is to protect what hair you have by using a satin pillowcase, use a nice soft brush, and wash your hair only when necessary with a very gentle shampoo so it doesn’t dry your scalp.

A number of people shave their heads instead of allowing the hair to fall out in clumps. Many of these patients report shaving their head eases the irritation and itching that accompanies gradual hair loss from chemotherapy.

More often than not it looks better than hair that is patchy and sparse during therapy. Also, it will be easier to keep your head covering, chemotherapy hat or wig in place if you are using one.

Most importantly you will need to protect your scalp from sun or cold. By using a 30+ sunscreen or some form of covering will protect your scalp.

Remember your newly shaved head won’t be used to being exposed to the hot sun or the cold weather. Your scalp may easily be sunburned and you will also find it amazing how much body heat escapes through your head.

When chemotherapy is complete it will take some months for your hair to grow back - it will be fragile and easily damaged in the early stages of growth so be sure to nurture it well during this phase of growth.

Don’t use undue heat on it, get a perm or use colors for at least six months after chemotherapy. Your scalp may be sensitive and could become irritated.

It is quite natural for many women to find the total loss of hair is a big blow to their self-esteem and can make them feel less feminine. 

Your emotional health at this time of your life is as important as your physical health so take care and get help if you feel you need it.

You are not the only person in the world that this is happening to right now (although it may feel like it). There are some wonderful people out there who are only too happy to help through.

As mentioned earlier plan well ahead. Buy a wig or some beautiful scarves or head coverings you feel happy with in readiness for the possibility of hair loss.

There are lots of classes offered for women who are experiencing hair loss because of cancer treatment so don’t try and bear the load all by yourself.

Contact the American Cancer Society to find out if they have “Look Good…Feel Better” classes in your area.

The classes are free and provide beauty tips on coping with hair loss from chemotherapy.