When facing radiation therapy, one of the most common and visible concerns is hair loss. It’s a question that weighs heavily on the minds of many patients, and it’s completely normal to feel anxious about it. The thought of losing your hair can be emotionally challenging, but understanding the process can help you feel more prepared and in control.
How Radiation Therapy Affects Your Hair
Radiation causes hair loss by damaging the fast-growing cells in your hair follicles. This is why hair loss is typically limited to the specific area of your body being treated. If you are receiving radiation to your head for a brain tumor, you will likely lose the hair on your scalp. However, if you are having treatment on your chest or abdomen, you will not lose the hair on your head. The loss is usually temporary for most people, but with very high doses of radiation, it can sometimes be permanent.
What to Expect During Treatment
Hair loss doesn’t happen immediately. You’ll usually notice it starting within two to three weeks of your first radiation session. It might begin as a gradual thinning or come out in clumps when you brush or wash it. The skin on your scalp in the treatment area may also become sensitive, red, and dry. Being gentle with your hair and scalp during this time is very important.
Caring for Your Hair and Scalp
Taking good care of your scalp can make this experience more comfortable. Use a mild, fragrance-free shampoo and pat your hair dry instead of rubbing it. It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals, dyes, and heat styling tools like blow dryers and flat irons. Many people find it comfortable to sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, which creates less friction. When you do lose your hair, protecting your scalp from the sun with a soft hat or scarf is a simple and effective step.
Looking Ahead: When Your Hair Grows Back
For the vast majority of people, hair begins to grow back a few weeks to a few months after treatment ends. It’s common for it to grow back a different texture or color at first—perhaps curlier, finer, or a different shade. This is usually temporary, and your hair often returns to its original state over the following year.
While hair loss from radiation can be a difficult side effect, knowing what to expect can ease some of the worry. Remember, this change is often a sign that the treatment is working, and for most, it’s a temporary part of the journey toward better health.