Hair loss during chemotherapy
What to expect, and options
Sources checked: September 2026
The short version
Some, but not all, chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss, usually starting a few weeks after the first infusion. It is generally temporary, though texture or color can be different when it grows back.
Whether chemotherapy causes hair loss depends on the specific drugs used — ask your care team whether it's expected for your regimen. When it happens, it usually starts within a few weeks of the first infusion and is generally temporary.
- Some people choose to cut hair short beforehand, which some find makes the transition easier
- A wig, scarves, or hats are all reasonable options — some insurance plans cover a portion of wig costs with a prescription
- Scalp cooling caps are available at some centers and may reduce hair loss for certain regimens — ask if this is an option
- Eyebrows and eyelashes can also thin; some people use adhesive strips or makeup techniques
Hair generally begins growing back within a few months after treatment ends, though texture or color can be temporarily different.
Questions you may want to ask
Is hair loss expected with my specific regimen?
Is scalp cooling available and appropriate for me?