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I am starting chemo in two weeks. I will be using a cold cap to try and save hair. Has anybody used the cold cap.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
South Salem, NY
August 8, 2018
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Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes but my oncologist is top rated and her whole team highly recommended it but do your own research, it worked. Also it does reduce the blood flow to your hair follicles. Do what is right for you😃👍

August 13, 2018
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member The American Cancer society has a program called Road to Recovery where volunteer drivers take patients to and from their appointments - I am one, actually. You might get in touch with them if you are having trouble getting a ride. (Phone number can only be seen by the question and answer creators). Good luck with everything and take care ~ Joanna

August 10, 2018
A MyBCTeam Member

They put ice on my wrists and ankles and it really helped.

August 10, 2018
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you. Yes I brought an electric blanket and was told it will add about an extra two hours for treatment. I will also need a ride to treatment because of Ativan. That’s the hardest because my husband died four years ago from pancreas cancer. Hope you are well.

August 9, 2018
MyBCTeam

Yes, many people have used cold caps during chemotherapy to help minimize hair loss. Here are some insights from MyBCTeam members:

- Effectiveness: Cold caps can significantly reduce hair loss, with effectiveness ranging from 27% to 90%. Overall, they have a 61% effectiveness rate
- Experiences
- Some members reported Show Full Answer

Yes, many people have used cold caps during chemotherapy to help minimize hair loss. Here are some insights from MyBCTeam members:

- Effectiveness: Cold caps can significantly reduce hair loss, with effectiveness ranging from 27% to 90%. Overall, they have a 61% effectiveness rate.
- Experiences:
- Some members reported only minor thinning: “They worked for me! Some thinning, but you couldn’t tell.”
- Others experienced more significant hair loss but still found it worthwhile: “I still lost two-thirds of my very thick hair but no bald clumps, so I looked quite normal.”
- Comfort: Experiences vary. Some find the initial cold painful, but it becomes manageable: “It’s only painful for a minute or two until the follicles freeze.” Others found it challenging: “The nine hours of cold caps worn on my head was brutal!!”
- Effort: Using manual cold caps can be labor-intensive, requiring frequent changes and preparation with dry ice.

It's best to discuss with your healthcare team to see if cold caps are suitable for your specific chemotherapy regimen.

July 7, 2024

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