How to speed up hair growth after chemotherapy

Hair loss after chemotherapy is one of the most annoying side effects, especially for women. Chemotherapy affects all cells in the body, including cancerous and healthy cells, such as hair follicles and cells, leading to hair loss. Some may accept this, but they remain confused about how to regrow hair, which prompts them to search for ways to stimulate its growth quickly. In the following article, Dalili Medical, we will provide you with some tips to help you stimulate your hair growth after chemotherapy quickly.

**Should I wear hair extensions or a wig after chemotherapy?**

Hair extensions or a wig can be an excellent option for you after losing your hair, as you can use them temporarily until your hair grows back after chemotherapy and returns to its natural state. It is important to avoid stressing the new hair, which is fragile and thin, whether by using hair clips or any other means that may affect the hair and scalp. It is also preferable to choose high-quality natural hair extensions made of natural hair.

**Why does chemotherapy cause hair loss?**

Chemotherapy drugs target and destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells. As a side effect, these drugs also affect healthy cells in the body that divide rapidly, such as hair cells, leading to hair loss. This loss may be generalized to all hair on the body and not limited to the scalp only.

In addition to hair loss, chemotherapy can cause other more severe side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and memory loss during treatment. Hair loss is also a common symptom associated with treatment.

**How ​​long does it take for hair to grow back?**

Hair growth after chemotherapy is expected to develop according to the following timeline:

- **After two to three weeks:** Thin, weak hair begins to appear.

- **After one to two months:** Hair begins to grow stronger and thicker.

- **After two to three months:** Hair covers about 2.5 centimeters of the scalp.

- **After six months:** The hair covers almost most of the scalp, and the bald areas disappear.

- **After the first year:** The hair becomes a suitable length for styling again.

It is important to note that the patient may need several years to restore the length and density of his hair to what it was before chemotherapy.

The patient may also notice changes in the nature and color of his hair after treatment, as the hair in most patients after it grows becomes:

- Wavy.

- Curly more than it was.

- Slightly lighter than its previous color.

Does hair grow back after chemotherapy?

In general, yes, but it depends on several factors. After the end of chemotherapy, the hair needs a certain period to start growing again and regain its natural appearance, and this period varies from person to person and also depends on the type of treatment. After completing the last dose of treatment, most patients notice that their hair starts to grow after several weeks, and this often happens after about a month. However, in some cases, hair growth may take longer, up to 2 or 3 months. It is important to note that hair growth after chemotherapy is not always guaranteed. If chemotherapy is directed to the scalp area, it may take 6 months or more for hair to start growing back. In some cases, hair loss in some areas may become permanent, making the only solution a hair transplant. Other than these cases, hair lost due to chemotherapy will grow back, but its growth rate may be slower than usual. It is normal at first for there to be some changes in the quality of the new hair.

**When can I dye my hair after chemotherapy?**

This is a common question among patients undergoing chemotherapy. If we want to dye our hair, it is important to keep in mind that the scalp will be dry and irritated during the first four to five months after treatment. Therefore, we must be careful and use natural, non-harsh hair products.

**How ​​can I stimulate hair growth after chemotherapy?**

To stimulate hair growth after chemotherapy, some tips and recommendations must be followed. First, it is preferable to shave the fine and fluffy hair after the end of the treatment, as fine hair only grows at the beginning of the hair restoration process, which helps it grow uniformly and stronger. It is also advisable to avoid using products intended for hair loss, as they usually contain strong chemical components that are preferable not to use. It is preferable to wait at least a month and a half before starting to use scalp treatments. However, we can stimulate and strengthen hair growth before and after the waiting period by

Wash your hair with warm water and preferably using a gentle and suitable shampoo.

Avoid using a hair dryer, and instead, dry your hair gently with a towel, and let the wet part dry naturally.

Comb your hair gently, avoiding sudden movements or pulling the hair.

Make sure to get a harmless haircut.

Avoid using any chemical products on the hair, as these products can weaken the hair and cause damage to the scalp.

Use moisturizers and hair renewal products at least once a week to care for the scalp and hair.

Avoid exposing the hair to high or low temperatures, as well as avoiding direct exposure to sunlight for long periods.

Try to reduce stress levels, as stress is one of the main causes of hair loss.

Exercise several times a week, as exercise helps reduce stress, strengthen muscles and enhance blood circulation.

Take the necessary vitamins to strengthen hair, especially vitamins from groups A, B, C, D, and E, as they are essential for maintaining healthy hair and scalp.

Following a balanced and healthy diet will contribute to promoting healthy hair, in addition toSupporting the entire body in recovering after chemotherapy.

**Tips to promote hair growth after chemotherapy**

After chemotherapy, hair usually starts to grow back, but this growth may be slow and unpredictable at first. Therefore, it is important to follow some tips to promote healthy and fast hair growth. Here are the most important of these tips:

. **Treat your new hair gently**: The hair that grows after chemotherapy may differ from your original hair, which may cause you frustration or anxiety. It is important to be patient and take good care of your new hair. Avoid using hair dyes or heat styling tools at first, as they can make the situation worse. Over time, your hair will return stronger and better than it was.

. **Using a wig**: Wearing a wig can help protect your natural hair from external factors during its growth period.

. **Trimming hair in a symmetrical manner**: It is preferable to keep the back of the hair short to match the front. It may seem scary, but trimming hair as it grows is an effective way to achieve a symmetrical look. Make sure to trim the back regularly to ensure it grows evenly.

You should make sure to drink enough water daily, as this helps promote healthy and strong hair growth.

You can modify your hair care routine by reducing the number of times you use shampoo, which helps protect hair follicles from damage.

Make sure to moisturize your hair regularly using natural hair oils or hair conditioner.

The best effective ways to promote hair growth:

Biotin supplements, also known as vitamin H or B7, are factors that help promote hair growth and increase its density. Taking these nutritional supplements can help strengthen hair follicles and promote their growth.

Castor oil is known for its ability to promote hair growth, and it can be used as a natural treatment by massaging the scalp with it before bed, then washing it in the morning. This is because castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which promotes blood flow to the scalp and stimulates hair follicles.

As for aloe vera, it is considered one of the best natural treatments for moisturizing and nourishing the scalp. Aloe vera gel can be used regularly to stimulate hair growth and reduce scalp irritation

Does wearing a wig after chemotherapy affect hair growth?

Hair growth **Of course not, wearing a wig after chemotherapy does not hinder your hair growth. Wigs are a temporary solution to cover hair loss caused by treatment, and do not affect the hair growth process itself. Rather, they can provide some benefits such as:

Protection: Wigs provide protection for the sensitive scalp after chemotherapy, especially if it is exposed to environmental factors such as sun and wind. They can also help protect the scalp from dryness and irritation.

Ventilation: It is preferable to choose a wig made of light and breathable materials, which allows air to pass to the scalp, and contributes to maintaining scalp health and natural hair growth under the wig.

Comfort: It is important to ensure that the wig is comfortable and does not cause excessive pressure on the scalp, as excessive pressure may lead to irritation or discomfort, but it does not prevent hair growth.

**Methods for treating hair loss during chemotherapy**

**Hair care**It is essential to take care of your hair and skin during and after chemotherapy. Here are some tips for hair care:

- Wash your hair at least once every two days.

- Use gentle, non-harsh hair products.

- Apply conditioner only to the middle and ends of long hair.

- Dry wet hair with a towel, preferably using a wide-toothed comb.

- Wear a soft hat or turban while sleeping.

- Avoid using hair styling products or curling irons.

**Scalp care* Scalp care during chemotherapy, as it may become sensitive or itchy, and some patients may feel a tingling sensation in the scalp or in other areas that used to have hair.

So, if you lose all your hair, it is important to take care of your scalp by following these tips:

- Wash your scalp with shampoo daily.

- Use an unscented moisturizer.

- Choose pillows made of natural fibers.

- Protect your head from the sun and cold.

**Haircut** A short hairstyle can be obtained before chemotherapy begins, especially if your hair is long. This may help reduce feelings of anxiety or pain when your hair begins to fall out, as it becomes shorter.

Some patients also prefer to shave their heads once their hair begins to fall out, to avoid scalp irritation or itching.

**Talking to family and friends** Sharing the challenges of hair loss due to chemotherapy with friends and family can be an effective way to relieve the stress and frustration that can accompany treatment. Joining cancer support groups and connecting with other people who are experiencing the same problem can also help improve your mood.

**Can hair loss be prevented?**

There is no treatment that guarantees that your hair will not fall out during or after chemotherapy. The best way to deal with hair loss is to plan ahead and focus on accepting your appearance before, during, and after treatment.

Many medications have been tried to prevent hair loss, but none have been completely effective, including:

- **Scalp cooling**During your chemotherapy injections, ice packs are placed on your head to reduce blood flow to your scalp. This reduces the effect of the chemotherapy drugs on your hair.

Studies on scalp cooling have shown some improvement in most people who have tried it. However, there are small risks associated with the procedure, such as an increased chance of cancer returning in the scalp, as this area does not receive the same dose of chemotherapy as the rest of your body. SomePeople who undergo scalp cooling treatment experience discomfort from coldness and headaches.

Minoxidil**Minoxidil is a blood pressure-lowering medication that has been approved to treat hair loss in men and women. However, applying it to the scalp before or during chemotherapy does not guarantee complete prevention of hair loss, although some studies suggest that it may help speed up hair regrowth. However, more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of minoxidil in hair regrowth after cancer treatment.

**How ​​to get the most out of it**

In general, hair loss cannot be completely prevented, but it can be managed. Follow these steps during treatment to minimize the frustration and anxiety associated with hair loss.

**Before you start treatment**- Be gentle with your hair. Avoid dyeing, coloring, or perming it, as this can weaken it. Try to air dry your hair as much as possible, and avoid using heating tools such as curling irons and hot rollers. Strengthening your hair during this phase may increase your chances of keeping it longer during treatment.

**Consider cutting your hair** Short hair usually appears thicker than long hair, making hair loss less noticeable. If you have long hair, cutting it short may help you cope better with the hair loss phase.

**Use a head covering** Start thinking about wearing a wig, scarf, or other head covering. Whether you choose to wear a head covering to hide your hair loss is up to you, but it’s easier to make a plan.

**During treatment**

**Treat your remaining hair like you would a baby**Continue using gentle hair management strategies during chemotherapy. Use a soft brush and wash your hair only when needed. It’s best to choose a gentle shampoo.

**Consider shaving your head** Some people experience itching, sensitivity, and irritation of the scalp during treatment and during the hair loss phase. Shaving your head may help reduce irritation and the feeling of embarrassment about the appearance of the hair loss. Some men prefer to shave their heads because they think it looks better than the bald patches they may have.

**Protect your scalp** If your head is likely to be exposed to the sun or cold air, it is important to protect it with sunscreen or a head covering. Your scalp may be sensitive as a result of treatment, making it more susceptible to irritation from extreme cold or heat. If you have no hair or little hair, you may feel cold, so it is best to wear a head covering for added comfort.

**After treatment**
Continue to care for your hair gently** Your new hair will be fragile and more susceptible to damage from styling products and heat appliances. It is best to avoid coloring or bleaching your new hair until it is stronger. Any procedures done to your new hair may damage it and irritate your sensitive scalp.

Be patient** Your hair will likely grow back, but it will be slow and will not return to normal quickly. It takes time to grow back, as well as time to recover from the damage caused by cancer treatment.

**Foods that help treat hair loss for cancer patients**Nutrition is a vital element for cancer patients, as it plays an important role in boosting immunity and stimulating hair follicle growth. Here are some foods that contribute to treating hair loss:

- **Eggs**: It is considered one of the best foods to improve hair quality and promote its growth, as it contains protein and many vitamins such as A, E, B5 and B12, in addition to iron, iodine and phosphorus. Eggs also contain biotin, which is considered an effective nutritional supplement in supporting hair health.

- **Fatty fish**: It is a rich source of omega-3 acids, which give hair a healthy shine, in addition to protein, selenium, vitamins D and B.

- **Spinach**: It is considered an ideal food for hair, as it contains a group of vitamins and minerals such as iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C.

- **Sweet potatoes**: It is one of the best sources of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, which promotes hair growth and helps treat hair loss.

- **Vegetables**: They play an important role in the health of the body and hair, as they contain a high percentage of fiber, minerals and essential vitamins, which stimulate the scalp to secrete natural oils that protect the hair and help treat it.

**Dairy products:** The presence of low-fat or fat-free dairy products is important, as they are a rich source of calcium, in addition to containing minerals, vitamins, iron and potassium that contribute to maintaining hair health and preventing hair loss. Therefore, it is recommended to eat a cup of milk or yogurt or a piece of cheese daily for breakfast and dinner. To enhance its benefits for your hair, you can mix a piece of cheese with a spoonful of ground flax seeds, which are rich in omega-3 acids that help maintain the shine and thickness of hair.

**Juices:** It is preferable to eat fresh juices and stay away from industrial juices with added sugar. You can replace them with natural drinks made from fresh fruits, as they are very beneficial and are considered great for hair health.

Water: Water is one of the essential elements that contribute to maintaining hair moisture and shine. Therefore, it is necessary to drink sufficient amounts of water, in addition to eating green salads rich in fiber that helps retain water. It is also recommended to avoid spicy and salty foods, and to drink at least 8 cups of water daily.

**Pills to treat hair loss for cancer patients** Cancer patients can benefit from a group of therapeutic pills and vitamins that contribute to enhancing hair growth and treating hair loss effectively, but you should consult your doctor before using them. These pills include:

- **Vitamin B12 pills**: These pills helpThe body absorbs the iron necessary for hair growth, as it provides hair follicles with the necessary nutrients to strengthen and enhance their growth.

- **Vitamin A pills**: These pills contribute to stimulating the scalp to produce sebum, which is a fatty substance that helps moisturize the hair, which supports its growth and reduces hair loss.

- **Biotin pills**: These pills play an important role in the formation of red blood cells that carry oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles, which enhances the hair growth process and reduces hair loss.

- **Vitamin C pills**: These pills contribute to the production of collagen in the body, which gives the hair a healthy and shiny appearance. They also contain antioxidants that fight free radicals in the scalp, which helps prevent skin diseases that hinder hair growth.

**Pills to treat hair loss for cancer patients**Cancer patients can benefit from a group of therapeutic pills and vitamins that contribute to enhancing hair growth and treating hair loss effectively, but they should consult the attending physician before using them. These pills include:

- **Vitamin B12 pills**: These pills help the body absorb the iron necessary for hair growth, as they provide hair follicles with the nutrients needed to strengthen them and enhance their growth.

- **Vitamin A pills**: These pills help stimulate the scalp to produce sebum, which is a fatty substance that helps moisturize the hair, which supports its growth and reduces hair loss.

- **Biotin pills**: These pills play an important role in the formation of red blood cells that carry oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles, which enhances the hair growth process and reduces hair loss.

- **Vitamin C pills**: These pills contribute to the production of collagen in the body, which gives the hair a healthy and shiny appearance. They also contain antioxidants that fight free radicals in the scalp, which helps prevent skin diseases that hinder hair growth.

- **Vitamin D pills**: This vitamin is important for regulating the body's secretions, which positively affects hair health