MyLymphomaTeam

Hair loss is one of the most common and emotionally challenging side effects of chemotherapy for lymphoma. It can happen gradually or come out in clumps, and many MyLymphomaTeam members have shared how difficult this experience can be.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of hair loss during chemo, including:

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Hair loss is one of the most common and emotionally challenging side effects of chemotherapy for lymphoma. It can happen gradually or come out in clumps, and many MyLymphomaTeam members have shared how difficult this experience can be.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of hair loss during chemo, including:

- Treatment plans using more than one chemotherapy drug (especially cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin combined)
- High-dose intravenous (IV) chemotherapy
- High-dose chemotherapy before a stem cell transplant The good news is that hair usually grows back within a few months to a year after treatment ends. In some cases, hair may grow back thinner or only partially, so it's worth having an honest conversation with your oncology team about what to expect.

Here are some ways to cope and plan ahead:

- Use gentle, moisturizing shampoos and conditioners
- Avoid harsh chemical treatments, perms, or heat styling
- Consider cutting hair short or shaving your head to feel more in control
- Explore wigs, head wraps, hats, or scarves — many members have found great options on Amazon or through specialty retailers
- Use makeup, eyebrow pencils, or false lashes to help feel more like yourself One important note: cold caps, which some people use to reduce hair loss during chemo, are not recommended for lymphoma. Because lymphoma is a blood cancer, reducing blood flow to the scalp could also reduce the chemotherapy reaching cancer cells there — which is the opposite of helpful.

If hair loss is affecting your mental wellbeing, asking your oncologist for a referral to a counselor who specializes in cancer care can make a real difference. As one MyLymphomaTeam member shared, speaking with a psychologist really helped them move forward after their diagnosis.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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