Carboplatin chemotherapy & hair loss

Hi Loops17, 

My name is Amy and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. Thanks for posting your question for us. I can see you have been part of our breast cancer forum for some time now, and I hope you are still finding it a safe and supportive space.

Hair loss is something many people worry about – it is such a visible and impactful side effect. Carboplatin can cause hair thinning, but not usually total hair loss. The amount of thinning can vary, but usually starts after the first or second cycle and is not usually permanent.

We often find we can help more by exploring these questions over the phone. If this is something you think would help, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch via our support line on 0808 808 0000. We are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm.

Cancer hair Care is the UK’s leading hair loss support charity and has lots of useful information, hints and tips you might find helpful to look through. They also have videos, blogs and in-person events.

Look Good Feel Better is another charity that focuses on supporting people manage the cosmetic and physical impacts of cancer treatment. They offer online and in person workshops.

I hope you find these links useful.

Hopefully treatment goes as smoothly as possible for you and remember, if you ever want to chat through things in more detail, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Best wishes, 

Amy C, 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. 

Ref: AC/TT

Thank you so much for your response Amy, it’s very much appreciated and the offer of support through Macmillan is also really helpful.

Kind regards 

Lisa