Hair Loss (Part 1)

Losing your hair can be unpleasant and difficult to cope with.  Your best defense on how to deal with these side effects which are causing your hair loss is consulting your medical health team. It may also be difficult to cope with your personal reaction to hair loss. After all, you have lived with your hair for a long time. It is a part of who you are. Now, your hair loss will be a visible sign that something is happening to you. How do you explain it? Do you have to explain it at all? And how will you react to the change in your self -image as a result of hair loss? Dealing with these questions is a challenge to most people. It is a challenge you can now face, and face confidently. For one thing, you know in advance that the hair loss is likely to happen. And you know why. You will not have to explain your hair loss when you plan in advance to do something about it. Take care of this as soon as possible, before the hair loss occurs. Considering hair prostheses or wigs now will allow you to make adjustments to it on your own terms, not when you do not have the choice. It will make the transition easier.

Hair Loss due to Chemotherapy:

Hair loss (alopecia) is a common side effect of chemotherapy, but not all drugs cause hair loss. Your doctor can tell you if hair loss might occur with the drug or drugs you are taking. When hair loss does occur, the hair may become thinner or fall out entirely. Hair loss can occur on all parts of the body, including the head, face, arms and legs, underarms, and pubic area. The natural hair usually grows back after the treatments are over. Some people even start to get their hair back while they are still having treatments. Sometimes, hair may grow back a different color or texture. Hair loss is not always immediate. It may begin several weeks after the first treatment or after a few treatments. Many people say their head becomes sensitive before losing hair. Hair may fall out gradually or in clumps. Any hair that is still growing may become dull and dry.

How can I care for my scalp and hair during chemotherapy?

• Use a mild shampoo.
• Use a soft hair brush.
• Use low heat when drying your hair.
• Have your hair cut short. A shorter style will make your hair look thicker and fuller. It also will make hair loss easier to manage if it occurs.
• Use a sun screen, sun block, hat, or scarf to protect your scalp from the sun if you lose hair on your head.
• Avoid brush rollers to set your hair.
• Avoid applying dyes, perms, or relaxers to your hair.

Some people who lose all or most of their hair choose to wear turbans, scarves, caps, wigs, or hair pieces. Others leave their head uncovered. Still others switch back and forth, depending on whether they are in public or at home with friends and family members. There are no "right" or "wrong" choices; do whatever feels comfortable for you. If you choose to cover your head, purchase your wig or hairpiece before you lose a lot of hair. That way, you can match your current hair style and color. You may be able to buy a wig or hairpiece at a specialty salon just for cancer patients. You also can buy a wig or hair piece by contacting us, TrinityLacewigs.Com, online at www.trinitylacewigs.com or by phone at 210-858-8554. Take your full lace wig to your hairdresser for styling and cutting to frame your face.

Some health insurance policies cover the cost of a hairpiece needed because of cancer treatment. It is also a tax-deductible expense. Be sure to check your policy and ask your doctor for a "prescription." Please see the Medical and Insurance Claims information within our blog for more information. Losing hair from your head, face, or body can be hard to accept. Feeling angry or depressed is common and perfectly understandable. At the same time, keep in mind that it is a temporary side effect. Talking about your feelings can help. If possible, share your thoughts with someone who has had a similar experience.