title: Chemotherapy-induced alopecia: advice and support for hair loss.
abstract: This article provides insight into the growth cycle of a hair follicle and the potential impact chemotherapy agents can have on this process, which often results in hair loss (alopecia). It explores the psychological consequences of chemotherapy-induced alopecia for an individual as a result of the perceptions of others as well as an individual's perception of his or her self-image. Despite the development of various forms of scalp cooling, chemotherapy-induced alopecia remains a major side effect for patients receiving chemotherapy; however, there have been improvements in wig provision and changing public opinion relating to baldness. Although chemotherapy-induced alopecia affects both males and females and all age groups, this article focuses on the potential impact for patients receiving chemotherapy as a form of treatment for breast cancer. As professionals we need to understand the social significance of hair in relation to a person's outward presentation and social interactions, along with the possible psychological implications of a person losing his or her bodily hair, and not just the head hair. We must aim to minimize the distress alopecia can cause by: ensuring we provide patients with up-to-date verbal and written information to enable them to prepare for losing their hair; helping them to preserve their self-image and minimize the psychological consequences of hair loss while receiving chemotherapy; and preparing them for their hair re-growth following completion of chemotherapy.
authors.affiliation: North Cumbria University Hospitals, NHS Trust.
authors.forename: Helen
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Roe
mesh_terms: D000505:Alopecia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007036:Hypothermia, Induced
chemical_list: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents