What to do About Your Appearance after Chemotherapy Hair Loss

Share

There are so many decisions a person has to make after they find out they have cancer and will have to undergo chemotherapy. One of the decisions will be what to do about their appearance after chemotherapy hair loss. Many websites say that the most traumatic thing about undergoing cancer treatment is the results of chemotherapy hair loss. Along with the chemotherapy hair loss is some weight loss that will show in the face. So any steps taken to mitigate the appearance have to include some thought for the resulting facial changes from the weight loss.

The hair that is lost is often gradual. Sometimes it may fall out in hunks but mostly it will fall out gradually. About 50 percent of the hair has to fall out before most people will even notice any change. Of course, you, as the patient will immediately notice even a few missing hairs. But that is to be expected as it is your hair that is falling out.

It is important to remember that this hair loss is generally not permanent. It will re-grow. That re-growth may take three to ten months, or more but it will return. It may be slightly different in color, or it may be curlier or straighter but it will return. It may even be grey but it will most likely get its color back after the hair cells that control the hair pigment begin to function again. Remember, after all chemotherapy affects all of the body, including those hair pigment cells.

You may decide you want to shave your head and chose not to get a wig. That's cool. But just remember that it is the head you are trying to protect so plan on getting a scarf or turban or some other head covering to protect the head from the sun and cold.

If you chose a wig, you will have to also decide what style you would like to see above your face. If you have long hair, you may choose a short haired wig. Even before you begin any treatment, if you have long hair you might consider getting it cut short so you can begin the process of accepting the new look of you. You may decide to try a different color. Or go really mod and get one with blue or purple streaks. Something you would not do to your own hair. This takes courage but so does recovering from cancer treatment. And hey, more power to you. Also consider a wig style that complements your new, thinner face structure. And remember it is also temporary.

You may even choose to combine a head scarf or hat with bangs. You can purchase just bangs or perhaps a side piece that simply gives the