Many chemotherapy drugs will cause mild to total hair loss, including eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair. Hair loss occurs most often in clumps durng shampooing or brushing. Sometimes clumps are found on the pillow in the morning. If hair loss does occur, it most often begins within 2 weeks of the start of treatment and gets worse 1-2 months after starting therapy. Your scalp may feel senstitive to washing, combing or brushing during the short time when your hair is actually falling out.
Tips for Care During and After Treatment:
- Wash scalp with a mild shampoo
- Wear a hat, scarf or cap whenoutdoors to keep warm
- In sunny weather, protect yoru scalp against sunburn with a head covering and sunscreen SPF 15 or higher
- Avoid high alcohol shampoos, hair dyes and permanents that contain bleech, peroxide or ammonia
- See Appearance Support to find a list of places for wigs and hairpieces