Hi. I will be trying the cold cap and note that you have to be very careful with your hair in between treatments, no heat styling etc. I just wondered if anyone bent the rules for a special occasion for example and whether their hair broke off? I want to try my best to save it but it is very frizzy and unmanageable without heat and products. I thought using heat protection it would be ok but doesn’t sound like it?
Hi Sparkle498uk
I also used the cold cap.
I would not advise using any heat on it. I would focus more on the condition. I used leave in hair conditioner- childs farm- and that helped.
I did use some dry shampoo sometimes and it made mine more under control.
Anything that causes any tension or dries it further (hair spray etc) is going to risk more shedding/breakage.
This link takes you to a blog about scalp cooling and may help.
Jane
Hi Sparkle498uk. I can only speak from the experience of supporting my daughter with her treatment. Hair really does get very, very fragile with chemo. It's really best to 'handle' it as little as possible, just gentle washing with baby shampoo. There are specialist brands of product for cancer treatments and you might find a styling product but I definitely don't think heat styling would be a good idea, I think it would speed up hair loss.
Sending very best wishes for your successful treatment. x
I found the charity Cancer Hair Care very helpful. I used Faith in Nature products with no perfume and added rosemary extract. I also made a serum using rosemary extract and massaged it into my hair. I still use them 3 years on.
Washing hair no more than twice a week helped. My hair dresser was great at trimming my hair which helped to keep the shape.
My biggest problem and still mis that I am sensitive to strong smells. The conditioner they used during the cold cap experience if I was given a choice I went for something less pungent. Everyone is different.
All the best
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007