Hair, head & scalp care

• If you are used to long hair you might find it easier to cut your hair in stages before or in the early days and weeks of your treatment. This will help you gradually adjust to short hair. Some people shave their heads once they start losing their hair, because that gives them a sense of control over the process.
• If your scalp becomes dry and flaky or itchy, apply a gentle, unperfumed moisturiser. Armpits can also be affected. Use powder instead of perfumed deodorant.
• At night, wear a hairnet, soft cap or turban around your head to collect any loose hairs.
• Keep your hair and scalp clean and be gentle with them.
• Use gentle hair products such as baby shampoos, which do not cause drying of the hair and scalp.
• Comb or brush your hair gently: use a hairbrush with soft bristles. This is also helpful if your scalp feels tender.
• Use a satin, polyester or cotton pillowcase rather than a nylon pillowcase, which can cause irritation.
• Avoid plaiting or braiding your hair as this pulls and stretches the hair.
• Avoid sleeping in hair rollers because this pulls the hair.
• Avoid harsh chemicals such as permanent hair colour and many perms, gels, mousses and hair sprays.
• If you have lost all your hair, you may find your scalp becomes flaky. This can be removed by gently rubbing the scalp with moist cotton wool. A mild anti-dandruff shampoo might help.
• If you have lost eyelashes, take extra care to protect your eyes from dust. Wear sunglasses outside when it is practical.
• A gentle scalp massage can be invigorating and make you feel much better.
• If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor or nurses.

Your hairdresser can help 

A hairdresser you know and trust will be able to help you maintain a well-groomed appearance during your treatment and give you advice about hair care. Your hairdresser can help you with thinning hair, partial hair loss and hair care during regrowth.

• If your hair is thinning, careful styling can give the appearance of thicker hair. Wigs or hairpieces can be used to add body and to cover bald areas.
• If treatment has thinned your hair but not caused it to fall out, a light perm could be useful. However, do check with your doctor that this is OK while you are having treatment.
• Head massage treatments can encourage new hair growth once your hair starts growing again. A healthy diet will also encourage healthy hair to grow.

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