Treating Cancer in Children: Managing Hair Loss

Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It occurs when these treatments affect the cells that cause hair to grow. Hair loss often happens about 2 to 3 weeks after treatment begins. It may take about 1 week for most of the hair to fall out. Hair loss is devastating for some children. And it can be tough for parents, too. These tips can help you and your child prepare for and cope with treatment-related hair loss. Remember, most hair loss is temporary and hair will likely begin growing back after treatment ends.

Making hair loss easier to cope with

• Get your child a short haircut to make hair loss seem less sudden.

• If your child has long hair, consider encouraging him or her to donate the hair to an organization (see list of websites below).

• Use soft brushes and mild shampoos on your child.

• Towel-dry your child’s hair. Or set the hair dryer on low heat.

• If your child wants to wear a wig, have one made before hair loss occurs. You can buy one or find out how to borrow one (see resources below).

• If your child is upset about missing patches of eyebrow, offer to help him or her fill them in with a makeup pencil.

• Go shopping together for hats or scarves.

When hair loss occurs

• Ask your child’s healthcare provider how to handle any hair left behind that hasn’t fallen out. Note: Do NOT shave your child’s head with a razor. This can cause small cuts on the scalp, which can lead to bleeding and infection.

• Offer your child a hat, scarf, or turban to wear. These head coverings can protect the scalp as well as make hair loss less obvious.

• Tell your child it’s OK if he or she doesn’t want to wear a head covering.

• Allow your child to talk about his or her feelings. Your child may feel angry, embarrassed, or sad about hair loss.

Caring for the scalp

• Ask your child’s healthcare provider if you should use sunscreen on your child's scalp while outside.

• Encourage your child to wear hats and scarves to stay warm or to protect the scalp from the sun.

• Keep your child’s scalp clean.

• Tell your child’s healthcare team if you notice any changes in skin color.

• Ask the team to suggest a mild shampoo and lotion.

• If your child wears a wig, have him or her take it off for a while each day to allow skin on the head to breathe.

• Consider having your child sleep on a satin pillowcase to avoid friction against the scalp.

Hair growth after treatment

Hair often grows back 2 to 3 months after treatment ends. But it can take longer, possibly up to a year to return fully. Also, there may be some changes in color or texture of the hair. But it is rare that the hair may grow back curly instead of straight. If your child receives radiation to the head, the hair may not grow back in some spots. Ask your child’s healthcare provider if he or she expects your child’s hair to grow back normally.