If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you’re not alone. Approximately 39.5% of people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. A diagnosis can be scary and overwhelming, and the treatment process can sometimes be taxing. Chemotherapy can be especially tiring and often leads to hair loss, which can another emotional toll on you. Fortunately, there are a few key ways to cope with hair loss during your chemotherapy.
1. Give Yourself Time
There’s nothing wrong with initially grieving the loss of your hair. It’s something that you may have taken pride in, especially its appearance. You might be jarred by the sight at first. Remind yourself that this is temporary and that your hair will be growing back after you make your visits to the cancer treatment center.
2. Don’t Lose Sight of Your Identity
Even without your hair, you’re still going to be the same person. Keep that in mind while you’re going to the cancer treatment center. Remember the qualities that make you the unique individual that you are.
3. Cut Your Hair Short Before Treatment
It might be more distressing to see the loss of long hair than short hair. Having a shorter haircut before starting your visits to the cancer treatment center can make the process an easier one.
4. Use a Soft Bristle Hairbrush
During chemotherapy, your hair will be very fragile. Using hairbrushes with hard bristles can damage your hair more. Instead, opt for a soft bristle hairbrush to gently comb through your hair.
5. Build a Strong Support System
Even if you feel okay about losing your hair during chemotherapy, there may be times when you don’t feel okay. Having a strong support system of friends and family you can speak to, or even a therapist, can be a great way to cope during this stressful time.
6. Wear Unique Hair Wraps
Hair wraps are a great way to show off your creativity and personality just like your hair. They come in a wide array of colors and they’re incredibly comfortable.
Going through chemotherapy and hair loss can be a challenging experience even at the best cancer treatment center. The good news is that, with the tips above, you can make coping with your hair loss a little bit easier. If you’re in need of a compassionate cancer treatment center that aims to make your treatment as stress-free as possible, reach out to us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today for more information.
Posted 12/8/23
