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A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Burnaby, BC

I finished my radiotherapy in November 2025. I did not have chemo.
However, this last month when I wash my hair I notice that there are little clumps of hair that have fallen out in the tub.
I did not have this problem while getting the radiotherapy.
Has anyone else experienced this problem?

September 21
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MyBCTeam

It's great that you've completed your radiotherapy! Noticing hair loss after treatment ends can definitely be unsettling, especially when it wasn't happening during treatment itself.

Radiation therapy can affect the skin and tissue in the treated area, and some hair shedding can occur after treatment concludes — sometimes Show Full Answer

It's great that you've completed your radiotherapy! Noticing hair loss after treatment ends can definitely be unsettling, especially when it wasn't happening during treatment itself.

Radiation therapy can affect the skin and tissue in the treated area, and some hair shedding can occur after treatment concludes — sometimes with a delay. This is because radiation affects cells that divide quickly, including hair follicles. Here are a few things worth knowing:

- Hair loss from radiation is typically localized to the area that was treated
- It can sometimes appear or worsen after treatment ends, not just during it
- For many people, this is temporary, though recovery timelines vary
- Texture and thickness changes are also possible during regrowth

The most important step right now is to mention this to your care team. They can assess whether what you're experiencing is an expected post-treatment response and advise on next steps.

Being gentle with your hair in the meantime — avoiding heat styling and harsh products — is generally a good idea while things settle.

September 21
A MyBCTeam Member

Hugs to you both

September 22

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