Scalp Cooling and Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: Evaluating Cost-Effectiveness and Insurance Coverage
January 2026
in “
Dermatology Online Journal
”
Studysummary This study analyzed the cost-effectiveness of scalp cooling as a means of preventing chemotherapy-induced hair loss and found it to be financially reasonable compared to dermatologic management strategies, suggesting that it should be considered for routine insurance coverage due to its cost-effectiveness.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Scalp cooling, a method to reduce chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA), is cost-effective compared to dermatologic management strategies, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $3,050 per QALY versus dermatologic management plus minoxidil and –$2,950 per QALY versus dermatologic management plus minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma. These ICERs are below common U.S. willingness-to-pay thresholds, suggesting that scalp cooling is a financially viable supportive care intervention. The study advocates for routine insurance coverage of scalp cooling to improve access and support patients' quality of life during chemotherapy.
