Hair loss

Cancer treatments, such as radiation, chemotherapy and targeted therapy, can harm cells that help hair grow, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Hair loss, called alopecia, can happen anywhere on your body. Hair may fall out entirely, slowly or in sections. Sometimes hair grows thin or becomes duller or drier.

Hair loss varies from person to person and also depends on the dose, method and kind of drug. Your hair’s color and texture can be different when it regrows.

Managing side effects, such as hair loss, is an important part of your cancer care. Your patient navigator can help you find local headwear resources and cope with losing your hair. Have sunglasses to help protect your eyes from the lack of eyelashes and tissues to help remedy a runny nose due to a lack of nose hairs.

Chemotherapy

Not all chemo drugs cause hair loss, according to ASCO. If you lose hair, it usually begins to fall out after several weeks or treatment cycles. Hair begins to regrow about one to three months after treatment ends and can take six to 12 months to regrow completely.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy only affects the hair where the radiation is aimed. Hair usually grows back after several months. With very high doses of radiation therapy, hair may not grow back at all.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy does not cause complete hair loss. Some therapies may cause hair to become thinner, curlier, or drier than usual.