Hair loss from Tamoxifen?

Hello Deacongirl

Thanks for getting in touch. My name is Helen, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line.

Welcome back to the online community, it’s good to read that you are doing well, but I can see that your hair loss is distressing you a good deal.

Anti-hormone treatment can cause hair thinning due to the reduction of oestrogen (which we still produce even after the menopause) and although rare, can sometimes cause hair loss. 

I don’t know very much about hair loss shampoos to be honest. I had a look to see what clinical trials might have tested their claims and couldn’t find any with a quick search. You might find Get Ahead of Hair Loss has some information about their efficacy.

When hair is cut, it’s only the ends (shaft) that’s affected, but a haircut doesn’t affect the follicle, which is the part responsible for growth and loss. You may feel that having your hair cut feels like it's falling out less and your hair might look thicker as a result, but it wouldn’t have an impact on new growth or loss. 

We have a booklet on coping with hair loss. Although it’s focus is on chemotherapy-related hair loss, you might find some useful tips on caring for your hair and scalp and cancer hair care has great information and support

I thought it might be useful to mention that the condition of hair can also be attributed to lifestyle factors such as diet as well as periods of illness and the medications we take. It might be helpful to take a look at Breast Cancer Now’s information on a healthy diet after a breast cancer.

I hope you find this information helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else we can support you with.

Best wishes,

Helen, Cancer Information Nurse.

Our reference: AM