When will my hair fall out from chemo and how can I cope?

Hair loss from chemotherapy is often one of the most emotionally challenging side effects because it's such a visible reminder of treatment. Many find that preparing beforehand - like getting a shorter haircut, shopping for scarves or hats, or even having a "head shaving party" with loved ones - can help regain some sense of control during this difficult time. Remember that sharing your cancer journey is entirely your choice, and there's no timeline you need to follow for telling others.

The suggestion about preparing beforehand is so helpful - I'd also add that some people find it comforting to take photos of their hair before it falls out, or even save a small lock as a keepsake to remind themselves this is temporary.

I did scalp cooling and actually kept quite a bit of hair, so never had to look at myself as a bald woman during the entire process

Also, I’m about three months past the last treatment and my eyebrows and eyelashes have grown back

Leslie J thank you! I am having my third chemotherapy next week and am doing scalp cooling. The infusion nurses do not seem to be big fans of the therapy so I truly appreciate a positive review. Suzanne, I had long hair and cut it to a chin length bob this week. I've lost about 60% of my hair. The thought of cutting it was so much worse than the experience, it actually was a relief. I am going to the wig shop on Wednesday to try them on in case I need one. I have a small head circumference so I am very leary of ordering one online. I have a couple beanies and a hat I ordered, also a bunch of scarves that received when my sister died of endometrial cancer, so at this point it will be, let's see what happens. My retirement side gig was selling hair accessories so I also had trouble accepting the hair loss. Hugs, looks like we're at the same point in our journeys.

I actually got some nice inexpensive wigs from qvc. Short bobs and everyone thinks they look great!

I am not sure if I will get a wig but our local Cancer Society has free wigs, hats, mastectomy bras, pretty much anything you might need and it's free. They also give you 6 bottles of Boost or other drinks a week. You might check with your local Cancer Society and see if they do the same.

and thank you all for your support.

I am on the same path and losing my glorious hair is the worst. I almost made the decision to take my chances, but if cancer returns no recourse.

Today's it was really falling out so my hairdresser is coming to my house tomorrow afternoon and cut my hair really short - delaying the inevitable i guess. I cannot express how much this sucks.

Agree, not a path I would wish on anyone. I am on Chemotherapy infusion #3 this week and am already ready to be done with it. I am very blessed, I have had few side effects but my new best friend, Freddy Fatigue, is making it rough.

my 2nd chemo is the 26th, lack of appetite is one of my issues. I had some fatigue last chemo, and I live alone with my cat Boo. I have a problem taking a nap, like there is something I should be doing. But it sounds like fatigue will make me nap. I thank God that there are only 6 cycles of chemo - Paclitaxel, Carboplatin and Keytruda. But i will receive Keytruda for 2 years as a maintenance I guess. I do have 25 radiation treatments to look forward to also. I keep reminding myself that it could be so much worse.

I have "another" dumb question - infusions #1 some nausea, tired, I'm thinking hey not so bad. But then I reada few other posts and people talking about 2nd and 3rd and how bad they felt . Was i doing a rainbow and puppies moment when I thought it would be the same way each time?

You take control and empower yourself. Make the appointment for the head shave. Pick out some beautiful head wraps and even a wig if you want to go that route. I took a friend to a wig fitting. It didn't bother me as much as I thought it would. It's only hair and doesn't define who you are.

I did eyebrow tattoos. Quality ones can look very real. Check out My Two Brows. They come in multiple colors, sizes, and shapes.

thanks, I will check it out!

Hi...had my first chemo and immunotherapy 2 weeks ago, went for (expensive !) wig fitting yesterday. Medicare thinks wig ("cranial prosthesis") is not a medical necessity. Ha! I've been told by some that the hair falling out process was hard, but was much easier to deal with when the hair was all gone. My cancer center wasn't helpful with the scalp cooling...didn't know it needed insurance auth, etc. Thank you all for sharing your knowledge!

Joan V, I didn't pay for my wig fitting or hair cut. The hospital system had a fund that covered cancer patients in their salon. Check with your cancer center.

my local Berrien County Cancer Society has tons of wigs and they are free to Cancer patients.

Suzanne K , your protocol was the same as mine except for the radiation. I was supposed to be on Keytruda for two years but had a life threatening autoimmune reaction to it after two infusions of the full dose, though I tolerated the smaller doses with the chemo. But it was enough to do the trick, tumor and lung spots gone. No need to keep on the Keytruda anyway and nothing for the radiation oncologist to target. I would reassess after the chemo and see how you respond. That standard protocol is given to everyone regardless, but we are all different. The Keytruda helps you live with cancer by keeping it in check and not growing. If the chemo takes care of it all is it really necessary was my question. See how you respond and then talk to the radiation oncologist again. Best wishes.

thank you! I will check on this next week when I go for infusion #2

Thanks Dongeo, I will check with my cancer center

Went for my third treatment on Monday. Last nite could not make it to the bathroom on time. Went on the floor. Feel so bad. Is this normal