Hair loss after chemo

Some people look good bald-I do not. I purchased a synthetic wig and wore it during my treatment and for a long time after completion. The sad reality is that it takes a long time for hair to come back because you’re starting from bald.

If you decide to purchase a wig, I recommend going to a shop where you can get some professional help. The place I consulted with specialized in helping women who are going through medical treatment. I didn’t realize that I have a small head and my wig had to be ordered in a petite size. Trying them on will help you to make a good decision if you decide to go this route.

If you don’t get a wig, I liked the slouchy pull on caps that you can purchase online because they gave a bit of height as opposed to a flat scarf.

Best wishes,
Cindy

I didn’t really do anything special. Did buy a sleeping cap because it was recommended but wasn’t comfortable wearing it to bed. Tried scarves and could never get the hang of them. So I used the caps made for the purpose, usually ordered off Amazon so I had different colors/textures. Did buy a couple hats for outdoor use. Thought about a wig but decided (for me) to wait to see if it would grow back before I went to that level (expensive if you get a good one and didn’t want to spend the money for something I optimistically would only need for several months). I started regrowth at about 3 months after and while still thin (and ai therapy doesn’t help), I do have hair.

Thanks Cindy!
It’s such a small thing compared to everything we’re going/gone through. It’s probably because now it’s a visual reminder.
I can’t image that I will look good bald either, a wig and maybe bangs for me!
Thanks again,
Marti

I was told to use baby shampoo as easier on the skin. I purchased a mix of head coverings and was gifted some by friends too. I liked the bamboo pull on ones from a friend. I also enjoyed a mix of hats, similar to ball caps but with pretty design. I bought them or gifted with ones that went with some of my tops I wore. I tried to make it fun. A suggestion I had and I did it was to get dangling earrings to compliment the hat and top. I had so many compliments that it encouraged me. I was fortunate to have a shop close to me that specialized in new and used caps, hats, wigs and jewelry so didn't cost me a fortune. All were in like new shape. If you wear makeup, be sure to put that on too on the days you feel up to it. Oh, I did have a pre-tied fancy scarf that I wore when giving a scholarship speech for some senior students. Losing hair is a shock even when trying to be prepared. Mine did come back in and was curly as it got some length. I had fun with that and now it is straight again and I got it cut to compliment what it wants to do. I only wore an inexpensive wig 3 times. I preferred the other items. When home alone, I went without anything. Wishing you able to find something you are comfortable with.

Cindy you look incredible!!

I loss all my hair regaining some back but I still have some bald spots the hair isn’t catching up I keep it washed an condition an it’s been almost two years now I have to wear wigs!

No. It is not a small thing. My kind, compassionate oncologist told me many of his patients felt it’s the worst part of having cancer. True, our exterior is merely our outer shell, but we’re accustomed to appearing a certain way and that is dramatically altered for a period of time. I admire those who can go out into the world with nothing or simply a scarf, but I wanted to resemble my old self as much as possible-for myself and my loved ones.

Choose what what makes you most comfortable.💌

I’m so sorry it’s been 2 years! That must be devastating. I have a hairdresser friend that recommended using mens Rogaine. She says it’s stronger and seems to work to thicken her hair.
Worth a shot ….. good luck!

While I did get regrowth after chemo, still thin. And then the ai therapy made it worse. I asked dermatologist about it and he said Nutrafol helps but had to get oncologist permission because it’s plant sterols. Only other recommendation was men’s minoxidil topically once daily at double strength. I found out the Nutrafol does stimulate estrogen so it’s a no for me. Tried the minoxidil for 4 months and didn’t really see a difference but still may work for some. Neither recommended oral minoxidil because of the side effects on blood pressure and heart.

I had to shave. I had long hair and all the hair kept getting everywhere and it gave me the heebie jeebies. So I just shaved and got it over with. I said “cancer, you ain’t taking my hair little by little. I’m gonna take it all first!”