The normal scalp has over 100,000 hairs! Chemotherapy can harm the cells that make all of that hair. Other places on the body may see changes or loss in the hair. Hair loss is called alopecia. The degree of hair loss depends on the chemo drug that is used, its dosage, and its duration. This effect is not permanent and healthy cells grow back normally once chemotherapy is completed.
Hair loss will start approximately 2-3 weeks after your first dose of chemotherapy and may continue for 1-2 months. Hair on the head is most commonly affected, but hair loss may also occur on the face, arms, legs, underarms, and pubic areas. The scalp may become tender and hair that is still growing may become dull or dry. To view hair products, please click here.
These suggestions will help you become ready to manage your hair loss before it begins:
After your hair begins to follow out follow these suggestions to maintain a healthy scalp:
Wigs are often paid for by your health insurance provider. Ask one of our Image Recovery Center® consultants to help you verify your insurance during your complementary visits.
Losing hair from your head, face, or body can be hard to accept. It is common and perfectly alright to feel angry or depressed about this loss. Talking about your feelings can help. Remember that the hair lost during treatment may grow back even thicker than ever. Most likely your hair will begin to grow back in 2-3 weeks after your chemotherapy treatment stops.