Chemotherapy describes any treatments where ‘chemical’ agents are administered, however; most of us relate the word to cancer treatment particularly because of the prevalence and awareness of breast cancer.All my career I have been very aware of the psychological significance of hair. When our hair looks good we feel good. It has an effect on morale, confidence and quality of life. Hair loss during chemotherapy greatly adds to the distress of the cancer itself and can have a huge impact on emotional wellbeing. From my trichological experience and from talking to oncologists and surgeons, the patients’ question, ‘Am I going to lose my hair?’ is of foremost priority, sometimes even before, ‘Am I going to live?’ Why Hair Loss Occurs ? When we are healthy 90% of our hair is always in the growing (anagen) phase, which usually lasts 3-5 years. Hairs we see being shed on a daily basis are in the telogen (shedding phase). This shedding usually involves up to 80 hairs being naturally lost a day. However, scalp hair can be very sensitive to even mild changes in, for example, metabolism, hormones, nutrition and lifestyle. The most profound effect, though, occurs from drug therapy, such as chemotherapy. Their toxic properties very often result in the natural hair cycle being drastically disrupted; the hairs do not enter the telogen (normal shedding) phase as they would normally do, but come out very excessively in the anagen phase, sometimes within 4-6 of commencing treatments; it is called anagen effluvium.That said, while certain chemotherapy always causes hair loss, others never do. It also depends on the individual’s response to the strength and duration of the treatment. Rest assured though, hair loss from chemotherapy is only temporary and will eventually re-grow in over 99% of patients. Preparing for Hair Loss ----The ‘cold cap’ is found by many people to be beneficial in lessening hair loss during chemotherapy. However, it does not always reduce hair fall and can cause significant, sometimes unacceptable discomfort, particularly when initially worn.I have found that some patients prefer to completely shave their heads before their treatment, giving them a sense of control. It can also be very distressing to see hair falling out in clumps in the shower or on the pillow in the morning. I generally advise patients with long hair to have a short style as the hair loss visually will look less; emotionally it may be easier to do this in stages. Other practical ways of coping with hair loss is to wear scarves, hats or ultimately hair pieces or wigs. However, before considering purchasing, it is essential to go with someone who will give an honest opinion on style and colour suitability.Wearing wigs or hair pieces does not inhibit hair growth, but it’s advisable to leave them off whenever possible. The scalp tissue will still contain oil and sweat glands so even with total hair loss, daily shampooing is best to preserve the health of your scalp. If your skin is sensitive, as it often is when undergoing chemotherapy (or radiotherapy), look for no scent/ no colour shampoos (and conditioners for when your hair begins to grow back after treatment). Philip Kingsley makes No Scent No Colour Shampoo and Conditioner, which was specifically designed for his wife when she was undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy and found it very difficult to find good hair care products. Post Treatment Hair & Hair Care ----In some instances the hair texture, colour and shape of the new hair growth are different and on rare occasions can be permanent. New hair growth post chemotherapy is also often initially fine and fluffy, but the follicles eventually produce mature hairs and the rate of growth returns to pre-treatments levels. In terms of everyday general hair care, the same rules apply: - Always comb hair when it is wet. Combs are kinder to the hair than brushes and the use of harsh, tightly packed bristle brushes should be minimized. - Avoid using excessive heat from hairdryers and other electrical hairdressing appliances. As soon as the hair is sufficiently long, usual hairdressing routines such as conditioning and the use of styling products can be resumed. Having your hair styled by a professional hairdresser who knows you and understands your situation can be very helpful and reassuring. Hair colouring may also be continued, but regardless of previous applications a Skin/Patch Test must initially be done when chemical colour is going to come into contact with scalp tissue. This is particularly important with ‘permanent’ hair dyes. Perms and Highlights do not cause allergies; however, a ‘strand test’ must also be undertaken on the first occasion after treatment as even though it is new hair it may react differently than previously. JONAL c Forever JC Yours Hair Couture / Singapore Orchard Plaza 0164/0231
Posted on: Sun, 09 Mar 2014 10:16:00 +0000
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