Chemotherapy treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging, and the side effects can be the same.
One of the side effects of chemotherapy can be hair loss.
Among the most rapid-growing cells are hair follicles, which divide every 23 to 72 hours.
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While it can be challenging, it is typically temporary, and hair grows back.
Read on to learn more about hair loss from chemotherapy and how to manage hair loss.
Higher doses of chemotherapy are associated with more severe loss.
It freezes the scalp, reducing the effects of chemotherapy on scalp hair and slowing hair loss.
While many women report great results, this method can be expensive.
Conditioners, by contrast, can sometimes be overly oily or contain emollients, humectants you don’t need.
The first rule of thumb is to simplify when it comes to hair cleansing.
If your hair is thinning, use a mild shampoo that is gentler on the scalp.
Healthcare providers often recommend a baby shampoo with the proper pH balance for dry, inflamed skin.
If your scalp is itchy or sensitive, rubbing baby oil or mineral oil on the skin can help.
Adding harsh chemicals can sometimes accelerate the thinning of your hair.
Pick Out a Wig
These days, there are countless styles and colors to choose from.
you might even cut and color your wig to match your natural color and style.
If you choose to wear a wig, get a cap liner to help eliminate some of the itchiness.
When outdoors with nothing protecting your scalp, use UV sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Summary
During chemotherapy, you may experience hair loss.
While hair loss is typically temporary, it may cause emotional distress.
Your hair will very likely grow back, and above all, it does not define you.
Your strength through adversity does.
There is no one specific answer to this.
You should choose a shampoo that is best for your scalp.
Chemotherapy and/or radiation can irritate the skin, and the scalp might be tender.
No, there are no medications that can prevent hair loss or thinning during chemotherapy.
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