Recently, a notion has spread among some individuals that hair loss can be prevented by receiving a special “drug” before chemotherapy. This information is completely false and has no medical proof.
Why doesn't such a drug exist?
Chemotherapy drugs affect not only tumor cells but also normal cells that divide rapidly. Since hair follicles also divide quickly, they are affected by this treatment, resulting in hair loss.
A preparation that can completely block this process with a drug, without reducing the effectiveness of chemotherapy, does not yet exist.
Is there a method that partially protects hair?
Yes, there is only one method: the only scientifically proven method worldwide that can reduce hair loss is scalp cooling.
This is not a drug – it is a special device or a cooling cap system.
How does it work?
The scalp is cooled before and during treatment. This reduces blood flow to the area, allowing chemotherapy to reach the hair follicles less. As a result, hair loss can be reduced.
But important points:
This method does not guarantee complete hair protection.
The effect depends on the patient, the type of treatment, and the correct use of the cap.
Hair loss reduction occurs in 40-70% of some patients, but complete protection is rare.
This method is not recommended for blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, etc.).
Regarding the situation in Azerbaijan, this system is currently not implemented in our country. Therefore, the information circulating about a “drug injected before chemotherapy” is not related to this method either and is entirely false.
Conclusion:
There is no drug that completely stops hair loss before chemotherapy.
Scalp cooling is the only hair protection method available worldwide, but it is not a drug, and its results are not 100%.
Do not believe rumors and obtain information only from your treating physician.
Hair loss during chemotherapy is a temporary condition. After the treatment ends, hair begins to grow back, and often becomes healthier, stronger, and more beautiful than before. Do not let this change bother you – it is a transient phase and fully reversible. Our goal is to see you healthy.
Dr. Aliyə Aslan, Medical Oncologist