Managing side effects

Hair loss

Trustworthy information about hair loss for people with cancer, their families and friends

Overview

Some cancer treatments can cause your hair to become thin, fall out or grow more slowly. This can happen anywhere on the body, not just on your head.

Before you start treatment, ask your doctor if they think you could lose your hair.

Hair loss can be a shock. You can call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.

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What's in this fact sheet

About hair loss

Learn about the impact of chemotherapy and radiation therapy on your hair and what kind of hair loss you can expect.

Managing hair loss

Planning for possible hair loss can help you feel more in control. Learn about taking care of your hair and scalp, and how some people use scalp cooling to reduce hair loss.

Wigs, turbans, scarves and hats

Learn about head coverings you can use if you have hair loss, including tips for choosing wigs and getting help paying for a wig or hairpiece.

Questions to ask your doctor

It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about hair loss.