How do Chemo Cold Caps Work?
Chemotherapy is a widely prescribed treatment for various cancers, aiming to eliminate cancer cells, shrink tumors before surgery, and enhance the effectiveness of other therapies. While effective, chemotherapy not only targets cancer cells but also impacts healthy, rapidly dividing cells, including those responsible for hair growth. The resulting hair loss can significantly contribute to patient stress and anxiety. However, scalp cooling therapy has emerged as a valuable solution, enabling many patients to retain most of their hair.
The chemo caps are stored in a heavily insulated cooler with dry ice and changed out every 25-30 minutes helping reduce chemotherapy-induced damage to hair follicles. Worn before, during, and after chemotherapy sessions, Chemo Cold Caps constrict blood vessels in the scalp, minimizing blood flow to hair follicles and limiting chemotherapy medication absorption.
Why does Cold Cap Therapy Make Sense?
The psychological impact of hair loss, though seemingly minor in comparison to cancer treatment benefits, can be profound for some patients, affecting self-image and serving as a constant reminder of the disease. Scalp cooling therapy, such as the Chemo Cold Cap Canada System, helps mitigate these effects.
What Does the Research Say?
A study completed by the Mayo Clinic on breast cancer patients revealed that 66% using cooling caps lost 50% or less of their hair, contrasting with those without caps, who experienced over 50% hair loss. Minor side effects, such as chills, headaches, scalp irritation, and neck discomfort, are associated with scalp cooling therapy. Consult with your oncologist to explore the option and preserve your hair during chemotherapy.
Will Cold Cap Therapy During Chemotherapy Work for Me?
The success of scalp cooling is individualized and depends on various factors, including your specific chemotherapy regimen. While the use of cold caps doesn't provide a guarantee that most of your hair will be retained, it can effectively slow down and reduce hair loss. It's important to note that some degree of thinning hair and patchy loss may still occur.