Chemotherapy is a well-known cancer treatment. It kills cancer cells. However, it also destroys healthy cells that can result in causing side effects like hair loss. Some people may experience some or entire loss of hair while undergoing chemotherapy. However, your hair may grow back after the treatment is over, as this alopecia is seldom permanent.
If you are experiencing loss of hair while the treatment is on, consult with your doctor for effective alopecia remedy for men and women.
Chemotherapy not only kills the cancerous cells but also damages the healthy cells, which may include the hair follicles responsible for hair growth. Hair loss may occur from eyebrows, head hair, eyelashes, and other parts of the body.
People undergoing this cancer treatment may experience alopecia within 1-3 weeks of the treatment and may become critical after one or two months. After the final treatment, chemotherapy drugs may take time to go away from the body and stop destroying the healthy cells. Here, it is significant to know that regrowth of hairs may take time after the treatment is over.
Finasteride (Generic Propecia)
How long does it take for hair to regrow following chemotherapy?
Hair can grow after chemotherapy is over. However, you can consider the following to get estimation for hair growth.
- 3–4 weeks: Light and bleary hair grow.
- 4–6 weeks: Hairs start becoming thicker.
- 2–3 months: You may see an inch of hair on your scalp.
- 3–6 months: You may experience 2-3 inches of hair growth that covers the balding area. People, who had short hairs, may get their original hair length back here.
- After 12 months: You may experience the growth of hairs to around 4-6 inches. Here, they become long enough to comb or style.
Some people may have to wait for years to get their long-length hair back. Nevertheless, suitable hair loss treatment for men and women can help regrow your hair. Consult with your doctor before using any treatment method for hair growth.
What should I do for my hair after chemotherapy?
Your doctor may guide you on your hair care plan. However, you can consider the following things for hair regrowth-
Do not brush or style excessively
Limit styling for the period your hair is re-growing. Moreover, avoid using hear sources like dryers, straighteners, or curlers. Wearing a hat and applying sunscreen while going out in the sun can be helpful.
Consider hair regrowth treatment
Some drugs can help slow down hair loss during chemotherapy and help regrow your hair after the treatment. Minoxidil (Rogaine) is one such medication. Consult with your doctor before using any alopecia remedy for men or women. He or she may suggest the best and safe ones.
