Hair Loss

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One of the more upsetting side effects of chemotherapy is the temporary loss or thinning of hair. For many people, hair loss is the most tangible fact that they are receiving treatment for cancer; this period when hair loss begins is often very difficult emotionally.

Hair loss occurs because anti-cancer drugs affect rapidly growing cells in the body, including blood-producing cells in the bone marrow, mucous membranes, and hair follicles. The amount of hair loss depends on the type and dosage of chemotherapy you receive. You will begin to notice thinning of the hair around 2 to 3 weeks after starting chemotherapy. Hair on the head is usually affected the most, but body hair growth may also slow. Some people may lose eyelashes or eyebrows as well. Your scalp may feel sore at first, but this sensation usually resolves quickly.

Some tips to cope with hair loss include:

• Use mild shampoos during chemotherapy. You may decide not to wash your hair as often as usual.

• Use a satin pillowcase to avoid hair tangling.

• Sleep with a stocking cap or a hair net when your hair begins to thin; this will help contain loose hairs. Cut your hair short at the beginning of treatment to make it easier to manage.

• Avoid chemical treatments that may further damage hair.

• Shop for a wig to match your hair color and style before hair loss begins.

• Contact the local branch of the American Cancer Society regarding free wigs.

• Ask your physician for a prescription for a “cranial head prosthesis” to submit to your insurance company for complete or partial reimbursement. A wig for cancer treatment is a tax-deductible medical expense.

Your hair will begin to grow back around 4 to 6 weeks after you finish chemotherapy. It may be a different texture and/or color when it regrows. Some people who normally have straight hair find that their hair grows back curly. You may have some gray hair when it grows back. The rate of regrowth should be similar to what it was before treatment began, usually 14 to Yi inch per month.

The Following Are Some Wig Suppliers In The Area That Our Clients Have Recommended:

Your Personal Image
323 Geary Street, #319
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-421-8456

The Wig Palace
159 East 5th Avenue
San Mateo, CA 94401
650-347-6125

A Lady's Touch
(CPMC California Campus)
3698 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94118
415-454-6058 (San Rafael office)

Hansen Fontana
536 Bryant Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
415-495-8888

Continental Wig Salon and Boutique
1121 4th Street
San Rafael, CA 94901
415-454-0101

Peggy Tom - Personalized Haircare
323 Geary Street, #716
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-391-3008

Studio International
2850 22nd Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
415-641-9447