Chemotherapy and Hair Loss: Symptoms, Timeline, and Coping Tips

Chemotherapy can cause hair loss because the medicines target fast‑growing cancer cells and also affect fast‑growing hair follicle cells. ^[1] Hair loss may happen on the scalp and sometimes on the eyelashes, eyebrows, armpits, and pubic area. ^[2] Not all chemotherapy drugs cause the same amount of hair loss some lead to mild thinning, while others can cause complete hair loss, and dose also matters. ^[3]

What causes hair loss in chemo

• Chemotherapy attacks rapidly dividing cells, which includes hair root cells, so hair weakens and falls out. ^[1]
• Radiation to the head can also cause scalp hair loss, and regrowth can be different or, at times, may not occur depending on dose and area treated. ^[2]

When hair loss starts and how it progresses

• Hair usually begins falling out about 2 to 4 weeks after starting chemotherapy. ^[3]
• It may fall out quickly in clumps or gradually over time, and scalp tenderness is common. ^[4]
• Hair loss often continues during treatment and for a few weeks afterward, with the degree of loss depending on the specific medicines used. ^[4]

Will hair grow back?

• Hair typically regrows after chemotherapy, though texture or color may change; timing and fullness vary by the drugs received. ^[1]

Practical ways to cope

• Covering your head is a personal choice; wigs, hats, and scarves are common options, and some people choose not to cover. ^[5]
• Planning ahead discussing options early and arranging a wig prescription can make the transition easier. ^[6]
• Scalp cooling (cold caps) during infusions may reduce hair loss for certain drug regimens when used correctly, though effectiveness varies and it may not be suitable for everyone. ^[7]

Gentle hair care tips

• Be kind to your hair: avoid bleaching, coloring, relaxing, or perming before and during treatment to prevent extra weakening. ^[8]
• Consider a shorter haircut to make thinning less noticeable and ease the transition if more loss occurs. ^[6]
• Use mild shampoos, avoid high‑heat styling, and brush gently to reduce breakage. ^[8]

Emotional support and resources

• Hair can be closely tied to identity; talking openly with your care team about concerns and preparing in advance can help you cope. ^[9]
• Ask your healthcare professional or hospital social worker about local wig programs, headwear resources, and support groups. ^[5]

---

Summary Table: Hair Loss During Chemotherapy

Topic	Key Points
Cause	Chemo targets fast‑growing cells, including hair follicles. [1]
Areas affected	Scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, arms, legs, pubic area; radiation to the head affects scalp hair. [2]
Onset	Typically 2–4 weeks after starting treatment. [3]
Pattern	Clumps or gradual; scalp may be tender; continues during treatment and shortly after. [4]
Variability	Depends on specific drugs and doses; thinning to complete loss. [3]
Regrowth	Usually returns after treatment, sometimes with changes. [1]
Coping	Wigs, hats, scarves; plan ahead; consider scalp cooling when appropriate. [5] [6] [7]
Hair care	Avoid harsh treatments; gentle washing and styling; consider short cut. [8] [6]

---

Key takeaways

• Hair loss from chemotherapy is common, but the extent and timing vary by drug and dose. ^[3]
• Most people see regrowth after treatment, though hair may look different. ^[1]
• Planning ahead with head coverings, considering scalp cooling, and using gentle hair care can make coping easier. ^{[6] [7] [8]}