1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) 26 Ways to manage side effects Be gentle when you wash your hair. Use a mild shampoo, such as a baby shampoo. Dry your hair by patting (not rubbing) it with a soft towel. Do not use items that can hurt your scalp. These items include: Î straightening or curling irons Î brush rollers or curlers Î electric hair dryers Î hair bands and clips Î hair sprays Î hair dyes Î products to perm or relax your hair If you plan to buy a wig, do so while you still have hair. After hair loss: Protect your scalp. Your scalp may hurt during and after hair loss. Protect it by wearing a hat, turban, or scarf when you are outside. Try to avoid places that are very hot or very cold. This includes tanning beds and outside in the sun or cold air. And always apply sunscreen or sunblock to protect your scalp. Stay warm. You may feel colder once you lose your hair. Wear a hat, turban, scarf, or wig to help you stay warm. Sleep on a satin pillowcase. Satin creates less friction than cotton when you sleep on it. Therefore, you may find satin pillowcases more comfortable. Talk about your feelings. Many people feel angry, depressed, or embarrassed about hair loss. If you are very worried or upset, you might want to talk about these feelings with a doctor, nurse, family member, close friend, or someone who has had hair loss caused by cancer treatment. Ways to learn more American Cancer Society Offers a variety of services to people with cancer and their families, including referrals to low-cost wig banks. Call: 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) TTY: 1-866-228-4327 Visit: www.cancer.org
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