My friend is concerned about losing her hair and would appreciate any feedback or information about the use of ice caps.

-The use of ice caps to try to prevent hair loss was found to be worthless. Actually, the use of an ice cap can be dangerous because it even one cancer cell is left after the chemo, it is all to do over again. Each time a person goes through chemo there is a chance that the cells will become immune to the chemo.

The ice cap was suppose to slow down the circulation to the scalp, therefore the scalp did not receive the same dosage as the rest of the body.

Chemotherapy kills the fastest growing cells in the body: cancer cells, the cells of the mucous membranes (inside the mouth and all the way to the end, inside the genital areas and renal system, inside the nose and ears) and the cells that form hair on the head and everywhere else. Since loss of hair is very important and there really is nothing that can be done to prevent it, each person has to come to terms with this loss. Know that it will grow back after the chemo ends, helps. Most people have better, stronger, curley, and darker hair after chemo. While you are bald, looking into the mirror and not recognizing the reflection looking back at you is very painful.

Just remember, the hair loss is a sign that the chemo drugs are doing their job. It is much better to be bald for a few months than to lose your life. Think wigs, scarves, hats, etc. This is the best time of the year for chemo because any of those are not uncomfortable or unexpected in the winter!

- My late wife had two chemo rounds that caused her complete hair loss. For life extention, she accepted the hair loss with a great sense of humor. She got into hats and scarves (we had a hat party for her). We bought a wig, which she only wore once. She would joke about not having to shave under her arms or her legs. I loved her as much without hair as with it. Our 18 year old daughter offered to shave her head to match mom's, offer was declined but appreciated. The relatively good quality time it gave us was well worth it. By the way, she had always said she wanted more body in her hair - when it came back, it was curly and had great body. By the way, if she does lose her hair, it seems much easier to tolerate if she cuts it really short at the first major sign of loss. The short hairs don't have the visual impact on the pillow, sweaters, and the shower drain as do the long ones. Not all chemotherapy drugs take out the hair. Check the effects of the scheduled therapy, she may be worried for naught. If she does lose it, it will only be temporary. Get her friends and family to continue to give her lots of love. Help her dream of the future, past hair loss and regrowth.