Jennifer Aniston, Farrah Fawcett, Princess Diana. What do these famous women have in common? 

They all are known for their iconic hairstyles.

You thought I was going to say they had cancer, right? Rather, the point is that how we wear our hair says a lot about us!

So when someone has lost their hair, it can be really devastating – particularly if it is due to treatment for a life-threatening illness like cancer. As if being diagnosed with the big “C” isn’t bad enough!

Hair loss is a very public sign of a diagnosis that many individuals would prefer to keep private.

Why Hair Loss Happens

Hair loss is a common side-effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These treatments target cells that are growing rapidly, and since there’s no way to only kill off cancer cells, other cells in the body, like hair follicles, are affected. 

Not all cancer treatments cause total hair loss. Treatments like immunotherapy and hormone therapy may mean that instead of losing your hair, it becomes thinner or growth slows.

What to Expect

Hair loss often happens in the first few weeks after starting treatment.

It can be a gradual process, where you start to notice extra hairs in your hairbrush or on your pillow.

Often though, hair falls out in clumps, leaving bald patches over the scalp. When this happens, it’s normal to feel alarmed and distressed/

Coping With Hair Loss

Hair loss is usually temporary, but it’s still a type of loss. This means it can stir up unexpected feelings of grief, especially when you see yourself in the mirror.

It can help to realise that while your hair is part of you, it’s not the whole picture. Even without hair, you are still you. You are still the same person inside so celebrate all your wonderful qualities.

Types of Hair Coverings

When starting treatment, it’s a good idea to think about what type of head covering, if any, you would like to wear.

Your chemotherapy headwear options include wigs, hair pieces, scarves and caps. 

  • Wigs and hair pieces are the most natural way to disguise baldness or thinning hair. They’re great for your self-esteem, but it does take time and practice to work out how to put them on. Having some trial runs at home before venturing out in public can be a confidence booster. 
  • A scarf or turban is a simple, comfortable way to add some style and express your personal taste. After some practice, they’re pretty quick to put on.
  • Hat and caps cover the whole head and are great at keeping your head warm and protecting you from the sun. They’re easy to wear, versatile and affordable.

When Will My Hair Grow Back?

Hair usually starts to grow back a few weeks or months after stopping treatment.

At first, the hair may have a different colour or texture than it did before. It may also be curlier – a phenomenon known as ‘chemo curls’. 

While hair growth can seem slow, your hair will most likely return to its usual texture and colour within a year and with cancer treatment behind you, you should be back to feeling more like your usual self!