October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

For women undergoing Chemotherapy, as part of a breast cancer treatment therapy, the chances of losing most, if not all of their hair, is very high. Unfortunately, most cancer drugs create this effect. The dosage level also has a direct effect on hair loss. Patients should ask their Doctors specifically if their treatment is likely to cause hair loss. Cancer treatment drugs target cells that divide rapidly. The cells that make up the hair follicle are some of the fastest dividing cells in the body. Therefore the cancer drugs directly attack the follicles and enough trauma is caused to the root that the hair falls out. Generally, hair loss begins within 10 days to two weeks after the beginning of treatment. Patients will encounter substantial amounts of hair beginning to fall out quickly. Brushing or shampooing of the hair is when this is most likely to be noticed. Hair loss can occur from all parts of the body, not just the scalp.

When all of this happens at a very rapid rate, it can become demoralizing and disconcerting.

And in addition, the loss of hair has the effect of "announcing to the world" that the patient has cancer. Suddenly their appearance has now changed to others. Patients can feel vulnerable and exposed.
 

Is there any good news in all of this?

Yes.  First, although it may take six months or longer, the hair that is lost during chemotherapy will normally grow back. Once the chemo attack is over, the hair follicles will renew themselves and hair will reappear. Sometimes the initial growth is finer, curlier and even a different color than before. But over time, the hair should begin to return to its normal appearance.

Secondly, rest assured, the many members of Transitions International Group are here to help. We have more years of experience than anyone else helping patients experiencing hair loss from chemotherapy. There are a number of ways in which we may help:

Be preemptive - cutting your hair shorter before undergoing chemo allows you to have more control and minimizes the dramatic look of hair loss.

We can provide you with complete information on prosthetic hair that will allow you to maintain you natural look.

We can help you find the hair replacement solution that's right for you, including complete information about all available hair prostheses options.  From beautiful human hair to state-of the-art synthetic hair, all of which can be expertly styled to closely duplicate the natural look of your hair.

What is the First Step?  

But we strongly recommend that you visit one of our members locations in advance of undergoing chemotherapy, so the choices can be discussed and the "new hair" will be ready BEFORE the rapid hair loss begins.

If you, or someone you know, is about to undergo cancer treatments, contact us today for more information.

We understand what you will be going through, we will treat you with respect and compassion. We are here to help. Please, let us help.
 

For a list of Transitions International member centers and clinics worldwide, click here.

Please Help Us Serve You Better.