Breast Cancer and Hair Loss

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month so this seemed like the perfect time to share some general facts about breast cancer and hair loss. Emerge Trichology in Tampa, FL is proud to offer hair restoration treatments to individuals dealing with hair thinning or hair loss. We’ve seen many cancer survivors and are happy to provide professional guidance and treatment solutions to help.

During breast cancer treatment, many people will lose some or all of their hair. Hair loss and thinning are common results of chemotherapy because the medication targets rapidly dividing cells, including some healthy cells like those in the hair follicles. In some cases, this hair loss can affect other body hair such as eyelashes, eyebrows, hair on your legs and arms, etc. Not all chemotherapy will cause hair loss. Your cancer specialist or chemotherapy nurse will be able to tell you more about your specific treatment and what side effects you may experience.

During breast cancer treatment, there are some strategies to help prevent or reduce hair loss such as scalp cooling. Other tips such as using a mild shampoo and conditioner, not washing your hair the two days after chemotherapy, avoiding hot water in the shower, massaging the scalp and brushing gently may also be helpful. You can also ask your specialist for any tips they may have for you.

It may take several weeks following treatment for hair to begin regrowth. As your hair grows back in, it may be a different color or texture than it was in the past. This may be a temporary change. If hair thinning or loss continues, we suggest visiting a certified trichologist. At Emerge Trichology in Tampa, we specialize in hair loss treatments that may help. Check out our contact us page to learn more.