RF-Scalp Cooling: Reducing Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss

Scalp cooling is a technique used to reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss. It works by reducing the uptake of chemotherapeutic agents in the hair follicles through local vasoconstriction and decreasing the metabolic activity of the follicles. The main concern regarding the use of scalp cooling devices is the possibility that this technique could increase the risk of cutaneous metastases. Most studies assessing the efficacy and safety of this technique have been carried out in patients with breast cancer, in whom no increased risk of cutaneous metastases has been demonstrated. Two recent clinical studies in women with breast cancer have confirmed the utility of scalp cooling with automatic devices. In both studies, scalp cooling was associated with a significant decrease in hair loss in approximately 50% of the women studied.