Coping with Hair Loss During Cancer Treatment

 

 

(CEO & Founder of Hamita Biotech who discovered the unique formula of Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products. A Clinician, Researcher & Immunologist who specialised in hair physiology & aesthetic medicine; Melbourne, Australia).

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Hair loss can be a side effect of specific cancer treatments, notably chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While chemotherapy drugs primarily target rapidly dividing cancer cells, they can inadvertently affect other fast-replicating cells in the body, including hair follicles, bone marrow, skin cells, and germinal cells. Consequently, chemotherapy can lead to hair loss on the scalp, face, and other body areas (1,2,3).

Radiation therapy, on the other hand, targets the DNA of cells within the treated body area, interrupting their replication and inhibiting the growth of cancerous tumors. However, this therapy can also damage hair follicles, resulting in hair loss in the treated region (1,4,5).

 

 

It's essential to understand that not all cancer treatments induce hair loss. The likelihood and severity of hair loss can vary depending on the type and dosage of treatment, along with factors such as an individual's age, overall health, and genetics (1,2).

Hair loss stemming from cancer treatment is typically temporary. However, hair follicle damage might not be entirely reversible without intervention. In some instances, hair may regrow but exhibit differences in thickness, coarseness, color, or texture compared to its pre-treatment state (4,6,7).

If you're experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment, discussing management strategies with your healthcare team is crucial. Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products can expedite hair restoration, potentially reducing your reliance on wigs, scarves, or head coverings or even the need to shave your head.

Hair loss can profoundly impact an individual's emotional well-being. Many people report self-consciousness, anxiety, or depression concerning their appearance. It's important to employ effective treatments like Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products while seeking emotional support from loved ones, therapists, or support groups if you're grappling with the emotional effects of hair loss (8).

 

 

The nutrients, minerals, and vitamins necessary for hair restoration following cancer treatment can vary based on individual needs and the specific type of treatment received. Nonetheless, several essential nutrients, including proteins, iron, biotin, and vitamins E and D, are vital for promoting healthy hair growth (6,9,10).

 

Hair primarily comprises proteins, making it crucial to maintain an adequate protein intake for hair restoration. Excellent protein sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and nuts. Iron plays a vital role in promoting healthy hair growth by facilitating oxygen transport to hair follicles. Quality sources of iron encompass red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy green vegetables. Biotin, a B vitamin, is essential for healthy hair growth and can be found in eggs, nuts, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables (10,11,12).

 

 

Vitamin D stimulates hair follicles, promoting hair growth. Adequate sources of vitamin D include sunlight, fatty fish, and fortified foods. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, enhances blood circulation and supports healthy hair growth. Nutrient-rich sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables (10,13).

Our products are designed to efficiently deliver these essential nutrients directly to the hair follicles while improving scalp blood circulation.

For scalp and remaining hair care after cancer treatment, avoiding harsh chemicals, heat styling tools, and tight hairstyles that can cause damage or further hair loss are crucial (2). Instead, opt for gentle products on the scalp and maintain a balanced pH. For example, Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products are crafted from natural ingredients, providing essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins while moisturizing the scalp and preserving a balanced pH.

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2. DiMarco G, McMichael A. Hair Loss Myths. J Drugs Dermatol. 2017 Jul 1;16(7):690–4.
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5. Freites-Martinez A, Shapiro J, van den Hurk C, Goldfarb S, Jimenez JJ, Rossi AM, et al. Hair disorders in cancer survivors. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019 May;80(5):1199–213.
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10. Institute of Medicine (US) Panel on Micronutrients. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc [Internet]. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2001 [cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK222310/
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12. Mudryj AN, Yu N, Aukema HM. Nutritional and health benefits of pulses. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2014 Nov;39(11):1197–204.
13. Saini K, Mysore V. Role of vitamin D in hair loss: A short review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Nov;20(11):3407–14.