An unfortunate side effect
Fortunately, there are natural ways to prevent chemotherapy hair loss. Another reason why self-care during cancer treatment is so important.
Cancer treatments have improved greatly as far as their effectiveness. However, in terms of the side effects of these drugs, unfortunately not much has changed. Nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and alopecia continue to be major problems.
The major side effect of hair loss is called alopecia. Some chemotherapy drugs cause more alopecia than others. If and when hair loss occurs depends on the medication used and the person. Hair loss can be a devastating change in a person’s life, especially for a woman!
Fortunately, some promising research studies have revealed a few ways to deal with chemo-induced hair loss. Possibly, to lessen or maybe prevent hair shedding.
What causes hair loss during chemo?
The question everyone has is, “Why does chemotherapy cause hair loss in the first place?” Well, the reason is that for chemo to be effective it must attack the rapidly growing cells which, is exactly what cancer is.
Interestingly, many areas of healthy tissue in the body also have rapidly growing cells. And, hair is one of them!
But, the loss is temporary. With that said, it’s important to also prepare yourself for hair re-growth. This period could last anywhere from 3-10 months. So, it will take time to regain your mane!
Natural ways to prevent chemotherapy hair loss
According to Livestrong.com, there are 6 steps to help avoid the loss of your locks!
- Wash hair less often (only when really needed)
- Use a wide tooth comb and soft brush.
- Avoid heat styling, rollers or hair ties that pull. Basically, anything that puts stress on the hair and scalp.
- Avoid any chemical treatments on hair: color, perms or relaxers.
- Eyelashes are hair. Do not use false eyelashes. The glue sticks to fragile lashes. And can cause allergic reactions to the lid.
- Satin pillow cases can lessen friction on hair strands while sleeping.
- Cooling the scalp (scalp hypothermia/cryotherapy) during chemo reduces blood flow (and chemo drug) to the scalp.
Hair saved with scalp hypothermia during chemo to reduce lost locks.
Interestingly, scalp hypothermia has been around for years. It’s most recognized as an aid for migraine relief. However, many patients aren’t aware of this option to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy sessions. Research studies have shown positive results. And, contribute low usage to lack of education.
Scalp cooling ideas …
- Bags of ice
- Gel cold packs
- Cooling Caps (ex: Cold Cap, Chemo Cap, Elasto-Gel, Penguin Cold Cap)
In fact, in 2017 the American Cancer Society published its information on the benefits of cooling caps to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy treatments.
Prepare for possible chemotherapy related hair loss.
You will also need to prepare yourself for what you will see. You may think there would be nothing to think about because “Yay! I have hair again!” Beware, regrowth of hair can be surprising. Sometimes, hair comes back with a different color and texture. It can be quite a shock!
So, are you trying to cope with hair loss? Here are some ways to distress the situation during the “fallout”.
- Buy hats, scarves and bandannas to protect the scalp.
- Invest in a wig (or several). You can find shades that match closest to your natural color or look at this time as an opportunity to try something totally different and have fun!
- See a cosmetologist who could give suggestions specific to your situation and match to your skin tones.
- Loss of hair can be anywhere on the body, such as lashes. Options exist to manage lash-loss as well.
- If you do join the “bald is beautiful” club, protect your scalp with sunscreen and coverings routinely.
- Use gentle products: shampoos, conditioners, light styling products and moisturizers,
Be educated about your cancer, treatment options, and side effects.
Yes, knowing what to expect lessens the anxiety of any difficult experience. Knowing that there is something you can do to be proactive in your care can be empowering! Fortunately, there are options for dealing with hair loss due to chemotherapy.
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