Managing hair loss

Hair loss is a common concern for many cancer patients, but not all treatments cause it. Your cancer care team can tell you if your specific treatment plan is likely to result in hair loss.

Hair loss is most commonly associated with chemotherapy, but it can also occur with:

• Certain cancer medications

• Radiation therapy directed at the head

These treatments can damage healthy hair follicle cells, leading to hair loss in different areas of the body, including the head, face, arms, underarms, legs and pubic area.

How Hair Loss Varies Among Patients

Not everyone experiences hair loss the same way, even if they are receiving the same type of treatment. Some patients may experience:

• Gradual thinning over time

• Rapid hair loss in clumps

Will Hair Grow Back?

In most cases, hair loss from cancer treatment is temporary. Hair typically begins to regrow after treatment ends, though it may come back with a different color or texture at first.

If you’re concerned about hair loss, speak with your cancer care team at TMC Health Cancer Center for guidance on managing this side effect.

Coping With Hair Loss

Talking with your cancer care team about hair loss may help you cope better with this side effect. Sharing your feelings with family, friends or a counselor can also provide emotional support.

Exploring Your Options

Wigs and Hairpieces – Choosing to wear a wig or hairpiece can give you a sense of control.

• Getting a wig before treatment makes it easier to match your natural hair color, style and texture.

• If possible, have your wig professionally fitted to avoid scalp irritation.

• Some patients choose to buy two wigs—one for daily wear and one for special occasions.

• Your cancer care team can recommend local wig shops.

Hats and Scarves – Some patients prefer to wear hats or scarves, while others choose to leave their head uncovered.

Therapy and Medication

Cold Cap Therapy – Scalp cooling with cold caps (like Paxman Scalp Cooling) before, during and after chemotherapy may help reduce hair loss by restricting blood flow to the scalp.

Cutting Hair Shorter Before Treatment – A shorter hairstyle can make hair loss appear less dramatic. Some people choose to shave their head before hair loss begins.

Gentle Hair and Scalp Care

• Use a soft-bristle brush or wide-tooth comb.

• Avoid heat styling tools (hair dryers, flat irons) and harsh hair products.

• Wash hair less frequently using a mild shampoo and pat dry with a soft towel.

• Protect your scalp from the sun with hats, scarves or sunscreen.

• Use fragrance-free lotion if your scalp feels itchy.

• Wear a hat or scarf in cold weather to retain body heat.

• Talk to your oncologist before using hair dye or perm treatments during or after treatment.

Medications for Hair Loss – Some medications may help regrow thinning hair after cancer treatment. Discuss options with your oncologist.

Silk or Satin Pillowcases – These fabrics are gentler on a sensitive scalp and help prevent hair tangling.

Regrowth After Treatment

Hair often begins to grow back within 2 to 6 months after treatment ends. Some patients notice changes in texture or color (e.g., curlier, straighter or different shades). Over time, hair may return to its pre-treatment state.

If you received high-dose radiation, hair may grow back thinner or not at all in the treated area.

As your hair returns, continue to treat it gently by avoiding excessive brushing, heat styling or frequent washing.

If you have concerns about hair loss, talk with your cancer care team at TMC Health Cancer Center for additional guidance and support.