Hair Loss and Cancer Treatment

By Hair Therapy in Christchurch, a specialist wig salon

When going through chemotherapy or radiotherapy you may lose some hair or your hair may thin. It can be very upsetting and depends on the type of treatment. If you are unsure about what your hair will do, ask your oncologist.

It is important to keep your scalp clean and healthy. Wash your scalp regularly with a mild shampoo even after you have lost your hair. We stock Nioxin, a product designed to safeguard the scalp from drying irritation caused by various chemical processes.

Your scalp can become sensitive once your hair starts to fall out. This usually starts 14 days after your first day of chemotherapy. We recommend you cut your hair short when it starts to fall out as this will help the hair health when it begins to grow back. It will keep the growth more even and feels better and healthier.

When your hair starts to grow back it is good to keep it trimmed. It will be soft like babies hair and will grow to different lengths. Regular trimming helps make it appear thicker and easier to manage.

Don’t colour your hair while undergoing treatment as the chemicals could react. If you are unsure, ask your oncologist about colouring.

Should I wear a wig?

Many women who lose their hair due to cancer treatment say a wig made them feel more positive and better about themselves - like donning an outfit that you know you look good in. They also said that they could blend into the crowd rather than feel self-conscious wherever they went. Sometimes a friend or family member has trouble coping with the cancer journey and wearing a wig stops it being a constant reminder to them. So the choice is yours but do what you feel most happy and comfortable about.

If you do decide to get a wig, organise it before your treatment starts. That way we can match your hairstyle and colour. There is a Government grant available for people who need a wig for medical reasons. This keeps the cost to a minimum. All you need is a letter from your oncologist or GP stating your treatment and medical condition.

If your self-image is being affected by hair loss, act now. Contact us to make an appointment to discuss your personal situation. We can show you realistic solutions for your individual needs and you will be treated with dignity and respect.