The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania Individuals who receive chemotherapy usually experience some loss of hair. The loss may be an overall thinning of the hair, loss in scattered areas of the head, or a total loss of hair. The degree of loss depends on what type of drugs you are receiving and your individualized treatment plan. Many people have a very emotional reaction to the loss of their hair. This response is normal.
Hair loss is the most dreaded side effect in cancer chemotherapy treatment.
You are grieving a loss, the loss of your look. Fortunately this loss is only temporary. Your hair may begin to grow during your treatment. It may take up to three months after all chemotherapy is complete for your hair to reappear. If hair loss is an expected side effect of your cancer treatment, it is a good idea for both men and women to purchase a wig before their chemotherapy treatment begins.