Guidebook for hair loss treatment
How to prevent hair loss when you have chemotherapy?

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How to prevent hair loss when you have chemotherapy? - 2         Author : HairLaserRemoval.co.uk

1. The cold cap system

2. Minoxidil (Rogaine)

3. Wearing a wig

4. What you can do for yourself

3. Wearing a wig
   If your hair does not grow back, is patchy, or you are still undergoing chemotherapy, you might consider wearing a wig. There are several varieties in all styles and colours, and can be made from both synthetic and human hair, or a combination of both.

   How to wear a wig : There are several different tips to make sure your wig is secure :

• Although a well fitting wig should stay in place by itself you can also use double-sided tape. Wig specialist stock hypo-allergic double-sided tape that will not irritate your skin. The tape is applied to the underside of the wig. Surgical spirit can be used to remove any remaining adhesive.

• The lining of the wig can sometimes irritate the scalp. You may find it helpful to wear a thin cotton scarf or skullcap under your wig. These are usually available from wig suppliers.

• You will need to have your wig adjusted as you lose more hair.

• Ensure that you receive instructions on how to care for your wig and how to have it re-styled.

• Try to avoid using hair spray on you wig as this can make it look unnatural.

4. What you can do for yourself
   If you are worried about your hair falling out from chemotherapy, these are some of the things that patients recommend you might do

• Ask your doctor or nurse if your chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss

• If they do, ask about a wig straight away, before you start your treatment, so you can match the colour and texture of your real hair

• If you are feeling adventurous, choose a wig for a whole new look - why not the hair and style you've always wanted!

• Think about having your hair cut short before your treatment starts

• Some people like to have their hair shaved off completely, so they don't have the distress of seeing the hair fall out

• Wear a hair net at night so you won't wake up with hair all over your pillow, which can be upsetting

• Use gentle hair products such as baby shampoos

• Don't use perms or hair colours on thinning hair - colours may not take well and perms can make the hair damage worse

• Try not to brush or comb thinning hair too hard - a soft baby brush may help

• Avoid using hair dryers, curling tongs and curlers on thinning hair, and try gently patting your hair dry
  If your scalp flakes or itches, this means it is dry - use oil or moisturiser, not dandruff shampoo

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The cold cap system  ;  Minoxidil (Rogaine)