Hi there I was diagnosed with breast cancer in Feb, had surgery and radiotherapy, im now on tamoxifen for the next five years. Since taking them I have noticed my hair is thinning and snapping off, is there anything I can take or apply to help regrowth ?
thanks in advance.
Hello Eutopia
My name is Rae and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here at Macmillan Cancer Support.
I can see that you are an active member of our Online Community. I hope you are finding it an informative and supportive area to access.
We are sorry to hear that your hair has been affected by tamoxifen. Hair thinning is usually mild and might only continue for a short time. However, in some cases it can continue throughout treatment.
Cancer Hair Care is a charity dedicated to information relating to hair loss and thinning due to treatment. They have a section related to taking care of new hair, but this information can also be used for caring for thinning hair. You can also speak to an advisor and access their support services.
Look Good Feel Better is also a great place to access as they want people to face cancer with confidence and give online information and in person workshops.
Breast Cancer Now have their ‘Someone Like Me’ service, where they can put you in touch with a volunteer who has had personal experience of some of the challenges you are facing. They also have a ‘Moving Forward’ course which can help you find the tools you need to feel more empowered, confident and in control when you finish hospital treatment.
It is important to spend time regaining both your physical and emotional health during this time. A healthy lifestyle can help with this.
Please do contact our Support Line if you would like to discuss any of the information here in further detail. Our nurses are always friendly, supportive and always ready to listen.
Best wishes
Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
