FAQs Chemo Hair
The information below is general guidance, gathered from established cancer support organisations. Your treatment is specific to you — your oncology team or specialist nurse is always the best source for what to expect in your own case.
1. Why does chemotherapy cause hair loss?
Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells. Cancer cells divide quickly, but so do healthy cells such as those in hair follicles, which is why they are affected too. Hair loss most often shows on the scalp, but eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair can be affected as well.
2. Will everyone lose their hair during chemotherapy?
No. Not every chemotherapy drug causes hair loss. Some cause thinning, some cause complete loss, and some cause no noticeable change at all. It depends on the drug, the dose, and how your body responds. Your care team can tell you what is likely with your specific treatment plan.
3. When does hair loss usually start, and how long does it last?
Hair loss commonly begins around two to four weeks after chemotherapy starts. It can happen suddenly or gradually, and usually continues through treatment. Most people find regrowth begins within a few weeks to a few months of finishing.
4. Is hair loss from chemotherapy permanent?
For most people it is temporary, with regrowth typically starting three to six months after treatment ends. Persistent hair loss is uncommon, though it has been associated with certain drugs and higher doses. If this is a concern for you, it is worth raising with your oncologist before treatment begins.
5. Will my new hair grow back the same as before?
Often not at first. New growth can be softer, a different colour, or a different texture — curlier or straighter than before. This is common and usually settles over time as your hair returns to something closer to its original character.
6. Can I prevent or reduce hair loss during chemotherapy?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss. Scalp cooling is offered in some treatment centres and helps some people retain hair, though results vary considerably by drug and individual. If you are interested, ask your treatment centre whether it is available to you and suitable for your regimen. Gentle hair care in the meantime may help reduce breakage.
7. How should I care for my hair and scalp during chemo?
- Use mild, fragrance-free shampoos and a soft-bristled brush.
- Avoid colouring, perming, and heat styling.
- Pat hair dry rather than rubbing.
- Protect your scalp from sun and cold — it becomes far more sensitive to both. A soft cap or scarf makes a real difference outdoors.
- Moisturise a dry or itchy scalp with a gentle, unperfumed lotion.
- Consider a sleep cap at night — it keeps you warm and saves you finding loose hair on the pillow in the morning.
8. Should I cut or shave my hair before it starts to fall out?
Many people do. Cutting it short or shaving before significant shedding starts can make the change feel less abrupt, reduce the distress of finding hair everywhere, and give you a sense of control over the timing. It is entirely a personal decision, and there is no wrong answer.
9. What options do I have for head coverings?
There is a lot of choice, and comfort matters more than convention. Common options include:
- Bamboo caps and bandanas — soft, breathable, and the easiest option for everyday wear.
- Head scarves — more versatility in how you tie and style them.
- Turbans and beanies — quick to put on, with full coverage.
- Sleep caps — lighter and looser, made for overnight comfort.
We also make headwear specifically for men and for children.
If you are unsure what will fit, our size guide walks you through measuring, and our materials and care page explains what each fabric feels like against sensitive skin.
Wear whatever feels most comfortable and most like you. There is no right or wrong choice.
10. How can I emotionally cope with chemo-related hair loss?
Losing your hair can be one of the hardest visible parts of treatment, and it is normal for it to affect how you feel about yourself. Many people find it helps to talk to someone — family, friends, a counsellor, or others going through the same thing. Macmillan and Cancer Research UK both run free support lines and online communities, and your treatment centre can point you to local groups.
Your feelings about this are valid, whatever they are, and you are not alone in having them.
Still have a question?
We have been making headwear for people experiencing hair loss since 2014, and we are always happy to help with fit, fabric, or anything else.
Browse our headwear · See the size guide · Read our hair loss FAQ · Contact us