Hair loss (also called alopecia) can be a side effect of cancer treatment. Not all cancer treatment causes hair loss. When hair loss does occur, it is usually a temporary side effect.
People experiencing hair loss can have a range of different emotions ranging from anger to anxiety and feeling low or depressed. These reactions are common and quite natural. It can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance and act as a constant reminder that you ‘have cancer’.
However, people often find that they cope with hair loss better than they expected. It can be helpful to think about out some strategies before your treatment begins.
Learn more about:
- Cancer treatment and hair loss
- Coping with hair loss
- Wigs, turbans, scarves and hats
- After your treatment
More resources
We thank the reviewers of this fact sheet: Caitriona Nienaber, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA; Hayley Tuck, Clinical Health Professional, Regional Cancer Support Coordinator, Cancer Council WA; Jacqui Campbell, Nurse Manager – ICON Cancer Centre Hobart; Karen Richardson, Cancer Nurse, Regional Support Services, Cancer Council WA; Marion Bamblett, Nurse Unit Manager, Fiona Stanley Hospital WA; Molly Colussa, Coordinator Practical Support Programs, Cancer Council Victoria; Moira Waters, McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Breast Cancer Care WA; Natasha Girvan, Program Manager, Look Good Feel Better, WA & SA; Rosie Brown, Cancer Nurse, Breast Cancer Netw trangelo, Consumer SA; Tania Ward, Consumer WA.
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