Both chemotherapy and radiation cause hair loss by damaging hair follicles, which contain cells that make the hair grow. Chemotherapy drugs reach hair follicles through the blood. Radiation causes hair loss when it is directed to the head.
Chemotherapy drugs differ from each other in the way they act on cancer cells. They also differ in the way they affect hair loss. Some drugs cause a lot of hair loss, others may cause none at all. Most of the drug combinations used in Lymphoma contains at least one drug which causes hair loss. Thus, hair loss during chemotherapy for lymphomas is quite common.
The idea may be tempting, but hardly practical. The main issue during treatment is to use the most effective combination of drugs. The choice of medicines should not be changed simply to reduce hair loss.
Some hospitals offer the use of a 'cold cap', which cools your scalp and reduces the blood supply. This results in less chemotherapy reaching the scalp and less hair loss. But its use is not widespread, and wearing a cold cap can be quite uncomfortable.
- Cut your hair into a shorter style before you undergo treatment.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and shampoo on your hair as these can cause the scalp to become dry and itchy.
- Do not perm you hair for at least six months after your treatment.
- Use a soft hairbrush to prevent irritating your scalp if it is tender.
- Avoid nylon pillowcases as they can irritate the scalp. Use cotton instead.
- Let your hair dry naturally as hairdryers and rollers can further damage brittle hair.
Hair usually grows back at least partially after treatment is completed. It may take up to a year before the process is complete. A patient wait may be worthwhile.
Wigs are very useful in camouflaging baldness. Modern wigs are well designed and rarely distinguishable from normal hair. Find out about local wig suppliers, and get fitted. Your hospital may help you find a supplier.
