There are some practical tips on how you can cope with hair loss:
- Ask your doctor or nurse if your drugs are likely to cause hair loss.
- If your drugs can cause hair loss, think about cutting your hair shorter before treatment starts. This could help to minimise hair loss as it reduces the amount of hair pulling on your scalp.
- Ask your doctor about wigs before you start your treatment. This means that if you want to, you can match the colour and texture of your hair as closely as possible.
- Some hospitals have staff that can show you different types of headwear and give you ideas and tips. Some hospitals run hair and beauty programmes. Ask your hospital or doctor for information.
- Talk to your friends and family for ideas on which wigs or headpieces would suit you.
The first thing you may notice is your hair starts to come out when you wash, brush or comb it. You could wake up to find hair on your pillow.
Some tips on looking after your hair during this phase:
- Use gentle hair products, such as baby shampoos.
- Use a soft baby brush to brush your hair, and try not to comb or pull too hard.
- Don't dye your hair as it may weaken your hair.
- Perms involve pulling on the hair so it may be best to avoid them.
- Try not to use hairdryers, straighteners or curlers on your hair. Try gently patting your hair dry instead. Talk to your hairdresser about other ways you can style your hair.
- Wear a hair net at night so you won't wake up with hair all over your pillow as this can be upsetting.
- Some people find that cutting off their hair or shaving their heads before treatment starts can help them keep a sense of control. You may prefer this to waiting for your hair to fall out. Think about what is best for you.