Guide to Hair Loss Prevention during Chemotherapy

During chemotherapy, hair loss is inevitable, and if the treatment takes a long time, the likelihood of losing hair is far greater. It is one of the most devastating side-effect of chemotherapy, and it affects the hair on your head, body and pubic area. It includes eyebrows and eyelashes as well. This hair loss is caused due to damage caused to the healthy cells, as chemotherapy drugs are not able to distinguish between cancer cells and hair follicle cells.

Hair Loss Prevention during Chemotherapy

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do for hair loss prevention during chemotherapy. During chemotherapy, some people lose all their hair, while for others, there is no hair loss at all. The hair loss mainly depends on the type of medications you are taking and how aggressive the treatment is. Many people take OTC medications for hair loss prevention during chemotherapy such as Rogaine, which is a hair growth shampoo.

However, most experts feel that these medications and shampoos are not effective. The good news is that the lost hair will grow back in most of the cases. The growth usually starts 6-8 weeks after the treatment finishes.

Though, hair loss prevention during chemotherapy is not easily achieved, there are few things you can do so that you don’t feel embarrassed in the public. Prior to the treatment, purchase a wig that matches your hair color. During chemotherapy, the hair falls in clumps, and it is better if you get the alternate in advance. To look at the positive side, you can experiment with different hair colors and styles.

For hair loss prevention during chemotherapy, cut your hair short so that they are easier to maintain, and the wig will also fit more easily. Some people prefer to shave their head before the hair loss begins as they feel that it is emotionally less devastating.

Turbans, hats and scarves can cover the baldness, and if you choose right type and colors, it can become a fashion statement. Many cancer patients cover their heads and try different looks.

For hair loss prevention during chemotherapy, do not perm or color your hair, even if you are not experiencing any hair fall. The procedure can still affect the hair follicles, and the outcome of these hair procedures may not be as desired. Coping with hair fall can be tough, but investing in a good alternative can look attractive and natural. Keep in mind that the hair will grow back, and most likely in the same condition as it was prior to the treatment.

There are several hair loss prevention tips including staying away from harsh chemicals, letting hair dry naturally, not combing your hair when wet, massaging the scalp regularly to increase the circulation, using natural hair care products, eating a well-balanced diet, doing regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, and keeping away from stress.