Hair loss during chemotherapy • Men

The goal of Chemotherapy drugs is to kill rapidly developing cancer cells. These drugs unintentionally affect all of your fastest-growing cells, including those in your hair roots. If you have the possibility of hair loss, you may be anxious about its effect on your mental health, but it's okay to be concerned. Typically, hair loss is temporary and will re-grow after treatment is completed.

In most cases, men don't seek help during cancer treatment. When you lose your hair, you reveal your cancer diagnosis, which is extremely difficult. Some men have sponsored head shavings to cope with this. As a result, you can refer to that whenever your lack of hair on your head and face is a topic of discussion. You'll be able to cope with hair loss and raise money for a worthy cause at the same time.

Speak To Your Doctor 

In order to boost your confidence and reduce stress, your doctor will let you know whether your particular chemotherapy treatment will cause hair loss. You should ask your doctor to describe the likely course of loss of hair if you are likely to experience it. That means not only your scalp, but also your eyelashes, eyebrows and the hair on your arms, armpits, chest, legs and pubic area. It allows you to plan ahead for head coverings while lowering your anxiety and stress levels.

Hair loss stages 

It is important to remember that everyone experiences hair loss differently. Depending on your treatment, you may notice the stages below.

• Hair usually begins falling out two to four weeks after you start treatment.
• Your head may become tender. 
• Hair may fall out quickly in clumps or gradually.
• Depending on your treatment, your hair may become thin or completely bald.
• Hair may be drier, thinner and duller.

Cutting You Hair Shorter 

You can prepare yourself for hair loss by cutting your hair or beard short. As a result of this process, you will gain a greater sense of control, which can reduce stress, but will also reduce the impact of hair loss. Your family and coworkers will get used to seeing you with this different style, so when your hair starts to disappear, it won't seem as drastic. You might even consider a buzz cut depending on your hair length.

Shaving Your Head and Face

During treatment, you may find it necessary to shave your head to avoid the trauma of losing your hair. I recommend this tip! I wish I had shaved my head earlier because seeing a pile of hair on my pillow every morning was distressing. It is common for people to shave their heads once the hair begins to fall out to relieve scalp irritation or itching. Make sure you use an electric razor when shaving. In this way, you will be less likely to get cut and develop an infection as a result. 

Adapting A New Look

Eyebrows

In addition to your hair, you may lose your eyebrows as well. It can be hard to cope with this, but if you know it is going to happen, you can prepare yourself. To feel comfortable with your new look, you can try the tips below. 

For tips on hair loss read - 'Caring for your Hair During and After Cancer Treatment'