Hair Loss Treatments

There are caps, scarves, turbans, and hats of many types, some designed specifically for medical hair loss, but most them serving the general head wear market. Even if you wear a wig, you will likely want other head wear options on hand as wigs can be tight, hot and abrasive on sensitive scalps that lack hair due to a scalp condition or chemotherapy. Unless you choose to sleep in a wig, a soft sleep cap is also important as you might not realize the degree to which scalp hair insulates us against heat loss until you don't have hair.

If you lose your hair during chemotherapy, consider those head wear options designed specifically for chemo hair loss as your needs can differ from those of the general head wear market. Hats and pre-tied scarves are great options if you are unable to lift your arms over your head to tie or adjust more complicated head wear items. Soft fabrics/materials are helpful if you experience the scalp sensitivity that often accompanies chemo hair loss.

Among the most important issues in choosing head wear items for medical hair loss is fit. If you're going to be wearing something on your head all day, you want it to fit comfortably and securely.

Depends entirely upon the cause of the hair loss.

Some types of hair loss will eventually self-correct, such as telogen effluvium, which is a sudden shedding that can last weeks to months, and is typically triggered by sudden hormonal changes brought on by childbirth, or severe emotional or physiological stress. If the hair loss is caused by thyroid dysfunction or a nutritional deficiency (such as low blood iron levels), then the condition can be reversed by taking a prescribed thyroid medication or by taking specific nutrient supplements. If the hair loss is related to genetic factors (such as male-pattern hair loss) or autoimmune conditions (such as Alopecia Areata or Lupus), then there are few or no substantiated options for permanently reversing the hair loss. There are options such as Rogaine or scalp steroid injections that can temporarily reverse the hair loss, but typically the hair falls out again as soon as the treatments are paused or discontinued.

If you have children in your life (as a mom, granny, auntie, or teacher), consider the importance of being straight with them about your hair loss. I know this seems amazingly difficult. It isn't a conversation we are ever prepared for. That's why I wrote the book I wish I had back when I was diagnosed 11 years ago. It's called Nowhere Hair (http://www.NowhereHair.com), and it's a children's book that explains cancer and the loss of hair due to chemo in a way that is whimsical yet honest. It takes away the scary, and it gives you the words you need. It's available on my website and at Amazon. sue