Wigs, chemo hair loss. Los Angeles, CA. What have you learned?

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited June 2009

    Dear BlessedOne2:

    Dearest Sister - none of us wants to lose our hair.  Very few women have no hair loss.  We all secretly hope to be one of them. 

    Do you know yet if they are recommending chemo/rads or both?

    First:  Ask your doctor and his nurse if they believe you will experiece hair loss.  They see the women, and hopefully (and sadly), you are not their first African-American patient.

    Second:  IF you will experience hair loss, the minimal effect will be thinning.  You will not like that effect.

    Third:  If the doctor writes you a prescription for a wig, and your health insurer will pay for it - please take advantage of it.

    Fourth:  The simpler your hair style, the simpler to "match" a wig to it.  It depends upon how many people you want to "know" that your hair has changed.

    Fifth:  I never thought I'd wear a wig.  The special ones for alopecia/chemo patients, with a comfy grip around your hair line, aren't bad at all.  I get night sweats, afternoon sweats, and my period stopped with the chemo.  I don't know if it'll come back.

    Sixth: The bald style is really drastic.  Have you ever been a scarf person?  You will still need to protect your scalp with a light conditioner (see previous posts).  Are you a hat person? 

    Finally - a lot of women post pics of them freshly head-shaved as their avatars.  I am amazed.  I think that's gutsy, in many ways, admirable, and there's no way in the world I'd ever do it.  I was born with a patch of gray hair on my head (per my mother).  I would and did cut, but I would not shave.  I think you should have a properly fitted wig in your hands before you shave - if you do (see wig warnings in this post).  You are going through so much, that if you can be prepared for things ahead of time, there will be a little less stress.  It's traumatizing to lose parts of your body, your hair, your good health, and your peace of mind to fight the good fight - and we as women take that trauma and fight that fight.

    If your hair is going to thin or fall out, you will experience itchy scalp, long strands coming out, and more shedding within 18 days of your first treatment of chemo.  I'm not sure about radiation.  That's your sign.  It's okay to wait for signs - but if you choose to, know what to do immediately if they show up, okay?

    Love in Christ,

    sessna1

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  • Indomitable1
    Indomitable1 Member Posts: 253
    edited June 2009

    BlessedOne2: Sessna is right. Wait and talk to your doctors re: plan of care-chemo plus or minus radiation. Then you can have a better idea of which path you want to take. Pay attention to the pointers she outlines above. 

    I, too, had a head full of the "good stuff"- 2 year old sisterlocks which were cultivated with TLC and consciousness. I chose to cut them off instead of losing them to chemo as I knew that I would receive an aggressive course of chemo. They were cut 4 days after my first treatment. I am now on Day 18 and my head started tingling/itching today. I had already noticed some loss-it comes out everywhere-but it is now coming out much more readily. I have been wearing my wig and scarves for 2 weeks now so it's no big deal.

    You'll find the info on this thread very helpful if chemo is the route chosen for you. Good luck and God bless you in this unfortunate journey to which we've been called.

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  • Lcharmie
    Lcharmie Member Posts: 430
    edited June 2009

    Hello BlessedOne2,

    I like your (user name)  Stay Blessed!!

    Sorry you had to meet us this way, we are glad you found us!!

    My opinion would be to wait till the Dr. says what kind of med you will be on, some of the meds do not cause you to loose your hair.  Herceptin, Xeloda, Tykerb,does not cause hair loss----- Navelbine (it use to say thinning of the hair--now it says hair loss) when I was on it, my hair was thin, but it still was growing.  I am one too, who hated to wear a wig--that is just me--I guess because I had to--I must admit there are some cute ones, and I got a lot of compliments and rolled with it, "like we can, during this journey".  Bless you if wearing the bald style, now that is "a strength" I did'nt have!!!

    Best of luck on whatever you choose to do.  Keep us posted.

    Linda C.

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited June 2009

    Dear BlessedOne2, the Sisters that I have met on this post are too cool.

    Thank you, Indomitable1. Laughing  An extra shout out to ILinda.

    Love in Christ,

    sessna1

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  • afighter
    afighter Member Posts: 24
    edited June 2009

    BlessedOne2:

    It is mportant to do what makes you comfortable.  My hair is (was) just below my ears...well, mid neck, but I wanted to control what I could; so I had it cut.  I have heard that some do not lose their hair...a small percentage, but I did not believe I would be one of those.  I purchased a wig in the hair style that I wear.  I have already been out in it.  In fact, I had a doctor's appt. Saturday and my doctor had no idea that I had already cut my hair and was wearing a wig!!

    Depending on when you have your first treatment, you may still have time to make your decision.  I say find a wig that you like before or just shortly after your treatment...just in case you do lose your hair, and then if you decide to go bold and bald, it is your decision, but at least you have a choice.

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  • Lcharmie
    Lcharmie Member Posts: 430
    edited June 2009

    While I was lurking on this page---Wink all on this post---STAY BLESSED!!!!

     Sessna1, Indomitable1, BlessedOne2, Afighter.

    Linda C.

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  • afighter
    afighter Member Posts: 24
    edited July 2009

    Hi Ladies:

    Can anyone recommend a good cream or lotion to use when going through radiation?

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  • nasharayne
    nasharayne Member Posts: 139
    edited July 2009

    Afighter - my doc recommended aquaphor but, it's really greasy. I have heard aloe vera is pretty good but, I have not tried it yet.

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  • BlessedOne2
    BlessedOne2 Member Posts: 106
    edited July 2009

    Sessna, Indomitable1, afighter, Linda C   just checking this post and see that you all had very encouraging words for me about hair loss.  Today was day 13 after first TX(July 15) of A/C.  Head has had a tingling itch sensation.  Today the hair down south began to come out with a little pull test.  Hair on head - a few strands did come out pretty easily when I did the pull test on it.  TX is A/Cx4, then taxol/herceptinx12, then rads.  Although I'm still thinking of the bald thing, I believe a group of my close sisters have something up their sleeves.  I'll be sure to come back again.

    BlessedOne2 (Wanda)  

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited July 2009

    Hello, Blessed One!  We are both weathering the treatment at this time...     I had my Taxotere/Carboplatin/Herceptin last Friday.  The main side effects are dizziness and nausea.

    That tingling sensation sounds familiar...  Please begin wearing hair net or night cap to sleep.  Please moisturize your scalp, consider wearing hats or caps during the day.

    I admire Robin Roberts, but it'll take me a few more months to be brave enough to mirror her runway walk w/o hair.  I think I look like Jaime Lee Curtis about now...  Some ladies just can't stand shedding, and shave their hair off with barber shears.  I couldn't stand barber shears, so I cut it as it clumped when washed - and wore my wig.  My hair is part of my childhood, like my eyeglasses and my wristwatch.  It would not do to shave for me... that would have hurt too much.

    The ladies of the boards are in my prayers.  Nice hearing from you!

    -sessna1

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  • kimby
    kimby Member Posts: 32
    edited July 2009

    Hi ladies, I did my first TC (Taxotere/Cytoxan) TX on Friday. The side effects have been varied but bearable. I'm waiting for the hairloss to begin. I haven't purchased a wig yet, can't decide whether to or not. I imagine it'll just be too hot to bear. I did get a hat though. I plan to use the Carol's Daughter products based on info from previous posts.

    Thanks for all the helpful info. 

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  • afighter
    afighter Member Posts: 24
    edited July 2009

    Nasharayne:  Thank you for the lotion tip.

    BlessedOne2 and Kimby: Sounds like your first Tx went well.  I hope the remaining ones are bearable, as well.  Remember to drink LOTS of water and exercise...both will really help you throughout the treatments.  Walking is fine. 

    I pray that all of you have the strength and courage it takes to complete this journey. 

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited July 2009

    Hi kimby,

    Did your doctor say that you should expect hair loss?  It's just easier to invest in a wig when you still have your usual style to compare the wig styles to, that's all. 

    Well, it's also kind of sad as the follicles of hair let go and thin out your hair.

    It is up to you, because every body is different, okay?

    sessna1

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  • kimby
    kimby Member Posts: 32
    edited August 2009

    Hi Sessna,

    Yes the doctor told me to expect hairloss. And I think i'm prepared. I guess you never really know until the time comes.

    Thanks Afighter i'm drink lots of water. Have not started walking yet but plan to over the weekend.  

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  • kimby
    kimby Member Posts: 32
    edited August 2009

    Hi Sessna1,

    I got 2 wigs on Friday. I bought them in a bit of a rush so they're not the most 'natural' looking but they work ok. Shaved my head this morning. It wasn't as difficult as I was expecting. But you were right. Knowing I had the wigs to hand made it a lot easier.

    Thanks a million for that advice. 

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited August 2009

    Bless you, kimby.  You are welcome.  I was showing you respect and love. Go forth and share knowledge.  That is what we are all here for.

    Love in Christ,

    sessna1

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  • BlessedOne2
    BlessedOne2 Member Posts: 106
    edited August 2009

    Hi sessna1 and my other sisters. Just checking in.  Hair is gone.  Would you believe it started to come out while I was at a family reunion--- but I had so much no one noticed the thinning out. I really don't miss it with all of this Texas heat.

    sessna - thank you for "go forth and share the knowledge"  that just confirms one of the purposes we all have while on this journey.   We never know who is in our midst.  I learned just this week that two of my long time neighbors have cancer in their households -just because they saw my "new look".  I thank God for that experience because I know that it was only him who made it happen.

    Blessings and pink hugs,

       

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited August 2009

    Dear BlessedOne2, I am so glad that you were prepared.  You are welcome.

    I'm trying to get to the point that it's all right if my neighbors see my scruffy hair (4th cycle chemo done... 2 more if I'm fortunate, more if I have to).

    Have you noticed how stressed out people are in general?  Sometimes you have to walk a clerk through who is helping you with a transaction.  Don't even try to do business over the phone with a fast talker - ask for the supervisor or someone else.  You don't need the headache. 

    I'm surrounded by single parents and what have you, so I know that their plates are full keeping their jobs.  My newest mantra is, "I'm doing the best I can," which goes along with, "I'm NOT perfect, and I don't have to be."  Please feel welcome to use those affirmations and then talk to God - nothing can be affirmed without Him.

    Yes - less hair with MORE heat does help out.  Chemo threw me into early menopause, and I have (and do) see myself sweat.  Itchy head is miserable.  I use Carol's Daughter's Hair Milk and spray leave-in conditioners for relief.  What a pain!  Ouch.  I think I may keep my hair short for the rest of my life.  I don't have time for the beautician - and depending on how much time treatment takes out of my life - I don't have the finances for every two weeks and medical bills, too.

    -sessna1

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  • rogam
    rogam Member Posts: 197
    edited August 2009

    Hello Ladies! I hope you are all doing well. Please be encouraged and don't worry about the hair. I had various wigs in different styles and colors. I also purchased some cute hats, baseball caps and scarves. My family and co-workers knew what I was dealing with so no one said anything. I always had cute earrings and kept the make-up looking nice as usual. Sept.08 is when i finished chemo and my hair started to fuzz in early December. I will GROW back. I have more curly hair than I know what to do with. I had long hair and now it is thick, curly, has grown back nicely. Every few months i blow it out to see what the growth is like. I love the short natural look. In fact 2 of my co workers recently cut the perm out and went natural. It is on the rise. Keep smiling and know that God is Still in control. We are blessed. Take care

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  • dtholden
    dtholden Member Posts: 24
    edited November 2011

    Greetings my beautiful sistahs,

    I started my chemo treatment last week and decided to shave my head bald the week before to empower myself.   I have been wearings different wigs for years so I actually love them.  They provide so much versatility and allows me to have more freedom from hair appts. and such.  Right now I am rocking my bald head proudly and loving the  positive comments that I get from strangers.  I make sure that my makeup is flawless and I get to now wear more bold and larger earrings.   Although, I have an extensive collection of wigs, I will go next week to pick up a few more. 

    Wigs can be fun if you see them as an accessory to your fashion statement.  There are many wig stylist around now that can take a wig off the rack and cut/style it to your facial features.   I never buy one without having to do some tailoring to it.   Generally they have to be thinned out alot to look natural because many of us don't have thick dense hair. 

    Most of my friends say that I should continue rocking the bald head because it shows more of my personality but I love many style options so it will be just another bold style option for me.

    We as sistah do LOVE our hair and hair options.....we simply must not let it define us.

    Big huggs to all!

    Denise 

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  • rogam
    rogam Member Posts: 197
    edited November 2011

    Dtholden I love your profile pix! Looks like you have the attitude to really rock the look. I can feel your positive energy!

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  • Nazycurtis1
    Nazycurtis1 Member Posts: 1
    edited April 2013

    Having a wig designed by your stylist is always a good idea, but if you want something more comfortable i recommend finding some in your area that can make a custom wig. It made all the difference for me. You may pay more, but it worth it TRUST ME.  I went with my local person.

    Hope that helps

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  • sweetrose623
    sweetrose623 Member Posts: 7
    edited September 2015

    Good Morning all.  I am new to this site (just signed up today).  I am a black female, stage 1 breast cancer and it had not spread.  I've already had surgery and completed the SAVI radiation.  I have to complete chemo because I have the HER2. I am on weekly Taxol/Herceptin for 12 weeks.  I have 10 more weeks to go now and then Herceptin only for 9 months. My question is to black women regarding hair cair.  I have pretty thick hair and my Oncologist and the nurse believe that my hair will possibly just thin out. I am prepared for that or it coming out in chunks.  So ladies if you are on the same treatment what has been your hair expierence so far and can you give me any tips on what you have done for your hair if it is just thinning?  I have a beautician who has gotten my hair in tip top shape and I have stayed away from perms for over 7 months now.  I would love any tips for myself or any I can give to my beautician for what products would be best for my hair.  I see her twice a month.  Thank you ladies.


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  • SimonLiu
    SimonLiu Member Posts: 2
    edited November 2015

    You can find some fashion cheap wigs from Prettywighair.com!

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  • StayingFocus
    StayingFocus Member Posts: 51
    edited December 2015

    Hello sweetrose623,

    Chemo treatments can affect the hair follicles. However, there are women who uses cold caps to save their hair. I was not one of them. However, there is a forum on this site that deals specifically with it. I don't want to alarm you with my experience in hair loss, but I was prepared for it. I lost my locs, which I had for 10 years. My hair was already thinning out before my chemo treatments and for me, the chemo caused my hair to fall out completely. My stylist shaved off what was left, and that was it! She cried while shaving, I didn't. I received Taxotere, weekly, with the 4th week designated as my rest week. My oncologist gave me Adriamycin for only 4 doses. I had chemo for 9 months, no radiation.

    I tried wigs, braids and weaves, but I wasn't comfortable. During the summertime, I felt like my head was on fire. Too much hair on my head. Now, my hair is short, tightly curled and is not even the same texture, and is very very dry. I use coconut oil, and a moisturizer on my hair. Nothing special.

    Sorry I couldn't recommend a product for you, but I wish you the best with your treatments.





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