Hair Loss
Alopecia, commonly referred to as hair loss, is the abnormal loss of hair on the body, including the head, eyelashes, eyebrows, in the armpit and pubic area, and on arms and legs. Sometimes hair loss is permanent; however, not every person will lose their hair, even when taking the same drug or having the same treatment that causes hair loss in someone else.
Preventing some hair loss on the head may be possible with scalp cooling. A helmet-shaped cooling cap is worn before, during and after chemotherapy is given. The cold temperature reduces blood flow to the head, preventing chemotherapy drugs from destroying cells in the hair follicles.
Researchers are looking into other ways to minimize hair loss based on different types of drug therapies. Talk with your health care provider before treatment about your options and whether insurance covers them.
What causes hair loss?
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and some other drug therapies work by killing rapidly dividing cells. Because cells in the hair follicles divide rapidly, they may be damaged by these treatments.
When does hair loss typically occur?
Hair loss from drugs usually begins within 10 to 14 days after the start of treatment and increases within 1 to 2 months. In some instances, hair loss may begin with a sensation of the scalp itching, and within a few hours, hair begins to fall out. Hair on the head often falls out in clumps during shampooing or brushing, or during sleep. Hair usually begins to grow back 4 to 6 weeks after the end of treatment with drug therapy. It typically grows at a rate of about one-quarter inch per month. For radiation therapy, only the areas where radiation is directed experience hair loss. Hair tends to grow back after several months, but it may be thinner or a different texture. Don’t be surprised if it is curly at first. Some drug therapies, such as hormone therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy, do not cause hair loss. Instead, hair may thin, become dry or change in texture.
How you can help manage hair loss.
Think about what will make you most comfortable and consider the following:
- If you choose to wear a wig, request a prescription from your health care provider for a “skull prosthesis for hair loss caused by radiation or chemotherapy treatment.” This should make it eligible for health insurance coverage. Or, contact your local American Cancer Society office to learn about free wigs.
- Use a scarf, hat, cap or other head covering to protect your head against cold and sunlight. Use sunscreen when you are outside.
- Be gentle to your hair as it grows back or as it thins. Use a soft-bristle brush and/or a wide-toothed comb. Avoid shampoos with strong chemicals or fragrances and hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners and elastics that heat, pull or break hair.
- Do not bleach or color your hair or get a perm.
- Sleep on a satin pillow case to decrease friction.
When to call your health care provider.
Ask for referrals to support groups. Learning how other people cope with hair loss can offer helpful suggestions.
