Why Does Hair Loss Occur?

Some cancer treatments can affect hair follicles and cause hair loss (alopecia). The severity varies depending on the type of treatment, the dose administered and individual factors.

Hair loss may affect:

• The scalp.
• Eyebrows and eyelashes.
• Beard and moustache.
• Body and pubic hair.

It is important to ask your healthcare team whether your treatment is likely to cause hair loss and whether it is expected to be temporary or permanent.

Which Treatments Can Cause Hair Loss?

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the most common cause of cancer-related hair loss. Not all chemotherapy drugs cause alopecia, and the severity can range from mild thinning to almost complete hair loss.

Hair loss usually begins between 2 and 6 weeks after starting treatment. In most cases, hair grows back after chemotherapy has finished, although it may initially differ in colour, texture or thickness.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy only causes hair loss in the area being treated. For example, radiotherapy to the brain may cause scalp hair loss, whereas radiotherapy to other parts of the body does not affect the hair on the head.

Depending on the radiation dose received, hair loss may be temporary or permanent.

Targeted Therapies, Hormone Therapy and Immunotherapy

Some modern cancer treatments may cause:

• Hair thinning.
• Slower hair growth.
• Drier or more fragile hair.
• Changes in hair texture.
• Changes affecting eyebrows, eyelashes or body hair.

Emotional Impact of Hair Loss

Hair loss is one of the most visible side effects of cancer treatment and may affect self-esteem, body image and social relationships.

It is normal to experience feelings such as:

• Sadness.
• Frustration.
• Anger.
• Loss of confidence.
• Concern about how other people may react.

Talking about these feelings with family members, friends, healthcare professionals or support groups can be helpful.

Strategies That May Help

• Choose scarves, hats or wigs before hair loss begins.
• Highlight other aspects of your appearance that help you feel confident.
• Share your concerns with people you trust.
• Seek psychological support if the emotional impact becomes significant.

Hair Care Before and During Treatment

Although it is not always possible to prevent hair loss, careful hair care may help protect the hair and scalp.

Recommendations

• Use mild, lightly fragranced shampoos.
• Wash your hair with lukewarm water.
• Dry your hair gently without rubbing.
• Use wide-toothed combs.
• Avoid hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair.
• Limit the use of very hot hairdryers, straighteners and curling irons.
• Avoid harsh treatments such as perms and bleaching.

Scalp and Skin Care

If you lose your hair, your scalp may become more sensitive.

Recommendations

• Use gentle moisturisers if you experience dryness.
• Protect your head from cold weather.
• Wear a hat or use sunscreen when exposed to sunlight.
• Avoid irritating products.
• Maintain good hydration.

When Will My Hair Grow Back?

For most people treated with chemotherapy, hair regrowth begins within a few weeks to several months after treatment has ended.

Initially, the new hair may be:

• Finer or thicker than before.
• More curly or straighter.
• A different colour.

These changes usually improve gradually over time as hair growth continues.