Dry itchy flaky scalp

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Hi, before starting folfirinox chemo I was being treated with betacap scalp application but my oncologist said to stop using it as it contains a steroid.

I am losing my hair now Unamused but it looks awful because of my scalp (being so dry/flaky looking), my gp gave me nizarol shampoo to help with the itching but is there anything else I could try ? 

It's all getting a bit much now and I'm not even half way through my treatment Pensive but I shall plough on !

Thanks for any help 

  • Dear

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community, I hope you find it supportive.  My name is Gillian and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    I am sorry to hear about the difficulties you are having. Managing scalp issues during your chemotherapy treatment can be challenging. There are a few suggestions mentioned on cancer hair care, which may help in addition to your Nizoral shampoo.  Using natural oils to hydrate the dry scalp overnight is suggested and keeping the scalp well moisturised.  

    You may find it helps to use pillowcases made of natural fibres, such as cotton, silk, bamboo or linen. Man-made (synthetic) fibres, like nylon and polyester, can irritate the scalp. This hair care information looks at some practical tip on how to keep your hair in good condition during your treatment.

    Look better feel good also has online workshops and support to help with the physical effects of cancer treatments they have hair and scalp workshops which you may find helpful. Changes to your appearance and body image as a result of cancer and its treatment can be very emotional.

    Often talking to others going through a similar experience can be helpful too. There is nothing quite like the support that you can get from others who know what it’s like. We have a great online group who support one another that you can join. 

    I hope this information is helpful, sometimes a two-way conversation can be beneficial, please do not hesitate to call, you may find talking to one of our nurses will allow you to ask more detailed questions about your situation.

     

    Kind regards 

    Gillian, 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 email us. 

    Ref GMcR/GG

  • Thank you, I will take a look at the caner hair care (I've probably only got 30 % of my hair left).

    I chat to my family and friends but as they have not gone through chemo, it's hard for them to understand. So I just nod and smile with some of their suggestions ! 

    Once again, many thanks