Agape Body and Soul

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month  

In this blog, we will highlight hair loss associated with breast cancer and offer solutions for before, during, and after your treatment. 

Breast Cancer Facts 

• Breast cancer arises from abnormal cells within the breast tissues that can grow out of control, forming tumor(s) which can invade surrounding tissues (such as the underarm area) and travel to other parts of the body.  
• Breast cancer can affect all ages, ethnicities, and even genders but is most commonly seen in women as they advance in age and is the second most common (after skin cancer) type of cancer among women in the U.S.  

• Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women and the leading cause of cancer death among Hispanic women. 
• Although breast cancer is a deadly disease it can be cured!  Early detection and treatment are the keys to survival. It is critical to know the symptoms of breast cancer.

 Hair loss due to breast cancer 

Treatment for breast cancer is selected on an individual basis taking into account the patient’s age, stage and location of cancer, other medical conditions, and the patient’s specific needs and wishes.  

Chemotherapy is the type of treatment for breast cancer most likely to cause hair loss, although other treatments such as radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and immunotherapy can also cause or contribute to hair loss. 

Chemotherapy 

What is it? 

Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment used to eradicate cancer by introducing strong chemicals that are toxic to all rapidly growing cells in the body.  

Why does chemotherapy cause hair loss? 

The cells in hair follicles are among the fastest-growing cells in the body. As chemotherapy proceeds to kill cancer cells, hair follicle cells can be damaged and hair may be lost on the scalp and elsewhere on the body. The loss can occur rapidly or slowly and can be total or incomplete.  

Can hair loss from chemotherapy be prevented?  

Cold Caps and Scalp Cooling Systems can be used before, during, and after chemotherapy infusions to restrict the scalp blood vessels, limiting the amount of chemotherapy drug that enters the cells of the scalp. Research has shown promising results with the use of these devices, many of which are FDA-approved. Some cancer treatment centers have invested in this technology, but it may not be covered by medical insurance.  

Read about DigniCap https://dignicap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Patient-Information-Booklet-English.pdf  

What can be done if I lose my hair?  

• If all or most of the scalp hair is lost, be sure to protect the skin when outdoors with a hat, scarf, or other head covering and/or sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher;
• Volumizing hairstyles, powders, sprays, and foams may give hair more body and disguise thinning;
• Cranial prosthetics (“medical” wigs and hairpieces) can be customized to be integrated into existing hair to provide coverage, add length and volume or be custom fit as a complete hair replacement. Some may be covered by medical insurance plans
• Colorful hair accessories such as scarves, turbans, hair clips, and hats may be helpful. 

 Will my hair grow back?  

• Hair regrowth from chemotherapy alone typically begins 4-6 weeks after the last treatment with fine, soft hairs that will mature and continue to grow over the next several months 
• The hair may differ from your pre-treatment mane in texture, density, and/or color  
• In some cases, hair does not regrow, or hair may continue to be sparse in certain areas

During the first 12–18 months post-chemotherapy: 

• Avoid hair color, relaxers, glues, and other harsh chemical treatments;
• Avoid heat stress from dryers, hot combs, flat irons, and heated rollers; 
• Avoid mechanical stress from tight braids and weaves, ponytails, and other high-tension styles.

What about the loss of eyelashes and eyebrows? 

The lash and brow hair follicles are susceptible to damage from chemotherapy for the same reason as scalp follicles. There are numerous options for adding fullness and color with brow and lash pencils, gels, powders, and press-on tattoos.  

Because chemotherapy impacts the immune system, there is a higher risk of infection, therefore, consult your medical provider before considering micro-blading (permanent tattooing), glue on lashes, or any technique that pierces or causes irritation to the skin.  

If regrowth does not occur or is incomplete see a certified trichologist or dermatologist who specializes in hair loss for assistance. 

Make your virtual trichology appointment today!