Hair Loss
Coping with Hair Loss During Treatment
Hair loss–also called alopecia–can be one of the hardest parts of treatment for many people. It’s more than just a cosmetic change. It can impact your identity, and emotions in a deeply personal way. Not everyone will experience it, and it can happen differently depending on your treatment. But if it does happen, there are steps you can take to prepare, protect your scalp, and care for yourself through the changes.
Before Hair Loss Begins
Talk with your care team. Ask if your chemo, radiation, or other treatments are likely to cause hair loss and what to expect in your specific case.
Explore scalp cooling, a therapeutic solution that may help reduce hair loss during chemo. Many Infusion centers offer this. Learn more about scalp cooling.
Consider cutting or shaving your hair. Some people find it empowering to take control by cutting their hair short or shaving their head before it starts to fall out. If you shave, use an electric shaver to avoid nicking your scalp.
Choose your wig early. Consider selecting a wig before treatment starts. This lets you match your usual style, and you can bring it to your stylist to personalize the cut. Some insurance plans cover wigs, and many communities have wig banks for free or low-cost options. See more descriptions of wig options here.
Be gentle with your hair. Wash with mild shampoo (like baby shampoo), pat your hair dry with a soft towel, and avoid: curling irons or straighteners, hair dyes or perms, brush rollers or clips, electric hair dryers, hair spray or gels, and tight hair bands
During Hair Loss
After Hair Loss
Protect your scalp. Your scalp may be more sensitive to sun, wind, heat, and cold. Wear a soft hat, turban, scarf, or wig outdoors. Apply sunscreen or sunblock to exposed skin.
Stay warm. Without your hair, your body may feel colder—especially at night or in air-conditioned spaces.
Sleep on satin or silk pillowcases. They reduce friction and may feel more comfortable on a bare scalp.
Talk about how you feel. Losing hair can be emotional. If you’re feeling sad, frustrated, or overwhelmed, open up to someone you trust—a friend, therapist, or cancer support group. You don’t have to carry it alone. Find spaces for you on our Finding Community page.
Hair Regrowth After Treatment
Most people begin to see new hair 3–4 weeks after finishing chemotherapy. In some cases, it starts to regrow during treatment. But regrowth takes time and may look or feel different than before. It’s possible that your new hair will:
- Come in soft and fine at first
- Be curlier or straighter than before
- Look darker, lighter, or grayer
This is all part of the recovery process. As your body recovers, so should your hair. With patience—and gentle care—you’ll find what works for you.
