Ways to cope with hair loss

Losing your hair can be one of the hardest parts of breast cancer treatment. It’s perfectly normal to feel distressed at the thought of it.

For some people, hair loss affects their self-confidence. They may choose to wear a wig, hat or scarf.

Other people are less concerned and don’t feel the need to cover their head. They view it as a sign they’re doing something positive to treat their disease.

Coping with hair loss is a personal experience and there is no right or wrong way to feel. The most important thing is to do what’s right and comfortable for you.

How you might feel about losing your hair

The thought of losing your hair is upsetting for many people.

Hair loss can mean you have less privacy around your diagnosis. You may feel the whole world can see that you’re having cancer treatment.

If you lost your hair during previous cancer treatment, the thought of losing it again may be remind you of that time. This can bring to the surface memories and feelings that are upsetting to experience again.

Talk to your medical oncologist about how you feel and ask if any options may result in less hair loss. This may mean changes to your proposed treatment plan or using scalp cooling technology.

Talking with others can help you adjust to the temporary change in your appearance. Joining BCNA's Online Network or finding a local support group connects you with people in a similar situation.

Ways to prepare for hair loss

People prepare for hair loss in different ways.

Cut or shave your hair

Some people have their hair cut short when they start treatment. This can reduce shock if you decide to shave it a couple of weeks later.

Others decide to shave their head as soon as their hair starts falling out. The advantage is it reduces mess and gets the process over with. Also, your scalp can become quite sensitive when you are having chemotherapy, and some people find that shaving their head eases this discomfort.

Ask your hairdresser if they have a private room where they can shave your head. For most people this is a very emotional time, so take someone with you for support.

Your hairdresser may see you after hours or come to your home, if you ask.

Wear a hair covering

You may prefer to cover your head instead of shaving your hair. There are lots of options:

• wigs
• hats, caps or beanies
• scarves
• turbans.

Read about Wigs and head coverings, including options for using your own hair.

When most of your hair has fallen out, you may decide to shave what is left, or leave it as is.

Tell your family what to expect

If you have children, it’s a good idea to let them know that you might lose your hair so they can be prepared as well.

Try a headwear workshop

Look Good, Feel Better provides free programs and resources for people with cancer. These aim to help people feel empowered and ready to face their diagnosis through:

• face-to-face workshops on headwear, skincare and make-up at more than 180 venues around Australia
• virtual workshops if you can’t get to a face-to-face event
• a Confidence Kit for people not able to attend a face-to-face workshop with care products and practical guides.

What to consider if you lose your hair

Protect your eyes

Eyelashes protect your eyes from dust and grit. If you lose your eyelashes, it is a good idea to wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors. Artificial tears (available from pharmacies) may help keep your eyes lubricated.

You may choose to wear false eyelashes. Check with your oncology nurse if you are thinking about this option.

Eyebrows

Some people choose to create eyebrows using an eyebrow pencil or powder. You can also buy false eyebrows.

Keep warm

Remember that hair helps the body keep warm. You’ll probably need a head covering during winter so you don’t feel cold.

Use sun protection

Hair protects the scalp from the sun. If you choose not to cover up, remember to use sunscreen on your head and wear a good sun hat.

Help for hair that becomes thin

Some treatments cause your hair to thin but not fall out completely. These tips can help you keep as much hair as possible.

Always ask your treating team to recommend products if you are not sure.

• Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner without sulphates or parabens.
• Aim to wash your hair once a week or less.
• Only use warm water as hot showers are harsh on the scalp.
• Use a wide-tooth comb.
• Let your hair dry naturally, without a hair dryer or straightener.
• Use a satin or silk pillowcase.
• Avoid cutting your hair too short in case you want to cover small patches of hair loss.
• Use soft scrunchies rather than hair fasteners or hair ties.
• Protect your scalp from the sun.
• Avoid perming or straightening your hair.
• If you choose to colour your hair, use organic products that are gentle on the hair and scalp.
• Be careful that any wig or hairpiece doesn’t put too much pressure on the hair at the scalp, and the clasp doesn’t cause the hair to break off.
• To make your hair look thicker or to hide bald spots, try volumising shampoo and conditioner. Products such as Toppik may also help, or a coloured concealer spray (often used to cover greys and are available at supermarkets or pharmacies).

If you are worried about significant hair thinning, talk to your treating team. They may recommend that you:

• see a dermatologist and have blood tests to look for additional reasons for your hair loss, such as thyroid problems.
• use a medication that promotes hair growth, such as minoxidil (often sold under the brand Regaine).
• take nutritional supplements to help speed up hair growth (always check with your oncologist before taking any new supplement to make sure it is safe).