Cancer

Hair Loss and Cancer - What to expect 

New hairs continually grow in and out of the scalp while the old ones fall away. People receiving certain cancer treatments may lose all or part of their hair, most frequently in clumps, while shampooing or brushing. 

People commonly experience sadness over hair loss. Knowing that hair grows back and that you may take action to make hair loss less of an issue for you is helpful. 

Hair loss can occur on your head and other body parts due to certain chemotherapy treatments. In the area of the body being treated by radiation therapy, hair loss is another possible side effect. Another name for hair loss is alopecia. By speaking with your medical team, find out if the cancer therapy you'll receive causes hair loss. 

How will cancer treatment affect my hair?

Approximately 90% of our hair is growing while we are healthy. This stage may be impacted by cancer therapy. However, many people find that hair loss is usually only temporary. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the two main therapies, each having varied effects on hair.

Chemotherapy

Although not all chemotherapy medications result in hair loss, chemotherapy can make your hair fall out. Usually, it happens two to three weeks after you begin your treatment. Some chemotherapy medications can cause facial and pubic hair to fall out as other types of body hair. Normally, hair grows back following treatment.

Chemotherapy therapies are strong drugs that target the rapid cell division of cancer cells. Unfortunately, these medications target your body's other quickly expanding cells, including those in your hair roots. 

Your brow hair, pubic hair, armpit hair, and other body hair may occasionally fall out. Different chemotherapy doses can result in anything from modest hair thinning to full baldness, and some chemotherapy medicines are more prone to induce hair loss than others.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy-related hair loss will only appear in the treated area and won't always regrow. Once more, whether you experience hair loss will depend on several factors, including the treatments and dosage you receive. Hair loss from radiotherapy can occasionally be permanent; your doctor will provide you with any information you need before starting treatment.

Other treatment 

Your hair may alter due to other cancer treatments such as hormone therapy or targeted (biological) therapy. Knowing more about how a treatment could impact your hair might be helpful. Any queries you may have can be answered by your doctor or nurse.

Taking care of your scalp after losing the hair

If you have hair loss, taking care of your scalp is crucial because the skin there could feel sensitive and irritated. Sun protection for your scalp is crucial. Since it is especially vulnerable to the sun, always wear a hat or high protection factor sunscreen. 

In chilly temperatures, cover your scalp since you lose a lot of heat from your head. Use an unscented moisturizer or natural oils like almond or coconut oil to relieve dry, flaky, or itchy scalp. Some people utilize aromatherapy oils, but it is better to seek the advice of a qualified aromatherapist. 

Keep washing your scalp frequently. If you use a wig, head scarf, or hat, wash them frequently to keep them clean and prevent scalp irritation. Your treatment team may talk about the skincare items you can use on your scalp if you are receiving radiotherapy to treat breast cancer that has progressed to your brain.

How to handle psychological stress after hair loss?

Always be honest with your doctor so that they can assist in resolving any confidence problems you may be experiencing. Some people who begin to lose their hair decide to shave their heads because they find it gives them a better sense of control. You could then decide whether or not to use a wig or other hair accessories.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) might assist you in altering your emotional or situational reactions. Giving patients new coping mechanisms for daunting situations is helpful for many patients. 

For many people, how we feel about ourselves has much to do with how we look. This is why losing your hair while receiving cancer treatment can result in a wide range of feelings, such as rage, depression, and self-doubt. You'll be better equipped to deal with hair loss and obtain the help you need by being open with your doctor, speaking to others in a similar position, and looking at strategies to decrease the impact of your hair falling out.