When Should I Shave My Head During Chemotherapy?

Hi JenniferF. I started losing it after my 2nd round. Going for third round this Thursday. It was just everywhere and then one morning when I brushed it I realized as large clumps were coming out that it was a lost cause to try to deal with at that point. I had my husband shave it that night with the electric clipper on level three. Not completely bald, kind of like GI Jane… I cried during but after he was done I actually felt like I wasn’t falling apart. Wig fits better now too. I think totally up to you to figure out when is best for you, but wanted to share my experience.

Hi Jennifer, mine began to fall out 2 weeks after my first round. It was coming out in clumps. My daughter shaved it down for me, also on a #3. Still had a brush cut. It’s hard, but unfortunately it’s part of the process. Best of luck to you. Stay strong.

Thanks

I just did my 4th chemo round yesterday. My hair started falling out after round 2. I had my son buzz my hair this past Sunday because my hair was just getting everywhere. Brushing it would bring out so much of it. We did a 3/4 inch buzz. It’s still coming out but at least I don’t notice it. I still have enough hair to not need a hat but you can start to see my scalp on the crown of my head a bit. I worry about also loosing my eyebrows and eyelashes but was told that organic Castro oil will help keep them so I put that on at night. So far I’ve only noticed a slight thinning. Hope it works. I can deal with the hair loss but not loosing my eyebrows and eyelashes.

The timing for shaving varies from person to person, but many find it helpful to take control when hair loss becomes noticeable or bothersome rather than waiting for it to fall out gradually. Some people choose to cut their hair shorter first to make the transition easier, while others prefer to shave it all at once when they're ready. Consider what feels right for you emotionally and practically - there's no perfect timeline, and you can make this decision based on your comfort level and personal preference.