Imatinib

Hi Lindilou

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sherrye and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I’m sorry to hear that you are about to start Imatinib for a GIST. This understandably must be a worrying time for you, I’m glad you’ve reached out to us. There are different ways to get help with how you’re feeling if you need it.

It’s very common to wonder how a cancer treatment can affect your hair. Imatinib can cause mild hair thinning and your hair can become drier and more brittle.

Taking extra care of your hair while on any type of cancer treatment is important as everyone is different and it’s difficult to say exactly how an individual’s hair will be affected.

When it comes to colouring your hair while on Imatinib that would be your decision, however it’s generally advised not to dye your hair as this can make it more brittle and can then break, there is also the risk of having an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the hair dye.

A conversation with your consultant or clinical nurse specialist may be helpful before making a decision on colouring your hair as they will know your individual situation best.

If you do decide to colour your hair we would recommend having your hair and scalp assessed by a hairdresser to make sure it’s in good condition and to do a patch test followed by a hair strand test before dying your whole head of hair.

You may also find it useful to access the information on Cancer Hair Care and Look Good Feel Better, both sites have lots of useful information and hair care tips for those going through cancer treatments.  

If you wish to discuss this further you are more than welcome to call the Macmillan Support Line, we are always happy to talk.

I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

Best wishes,

Sherrye H,

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), send us an email or contact us through webchat.

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