Efficacy of Scalp Cooling in the Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Among Breast Cancer Patients

June 2023 in “ Sciential - McMaster Undergraduate Science Journal ”

Hassan Masood

scalp cooling chemotherapy-induced alopecia CIA anthracyclines taxanes hair preservation intrafollicular metabolism

TLDR Scalp cooling effectively prevents hair loss in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Scalp cooling is an effective method for preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) in breast cancer patients, particularly those receiving anthracyclines and taxanes. By lowering scalp temperature, this technique reduces drug absorption and intrafollicular metabolism, thereby preserving hair. Recent randomized controlled trials have shown statistically significant results in hair preservation and regrowth, highlighting the treatment's success and safety. This method is crucial for improving patients' body image, self-esteem, and quality of life, which are often negatively impacted by alopecia and public stigmatization.

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Research cited in this study

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research Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Management: Clinical Experience and Practical Advice

48 citations , February 2017 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology”

The conclusion is to use scalp cooling, gentle hair care, and treatments like minoxidil for managing hair loss from chemotherapy, and stresses the need for more research and collaboration in this area.

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6 / 1000+ results

community 4.5 months/ Fin+Niz+Keto+Vitamins+Derm+Cold Water only washes

in Progress Pictures 614 upvotes 4 years ago

User achieved hair regrowth in 4.5 months using Fin, Min, Nizoral, vitamins, dermarolling, and cold water washes. Cold water washes improved scalp health, but unsure if significant contributor to regrowth.

community Article of all potential future cures

in Treatment 25 upvotes 6 months ago

Ritlecitinib and PP405 show promise for hair regrowth. Diagnosing the cause of hair loss is crucial before treatment.

community Peace out ✌🏽 Tressless, I’ve went ahead and just shaved off my hair, I no longer want to deal with everything that comes with Finasteride and other drugs, I’ve made my peace, hope everyone in this Sub gain peace and results 💯

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 420 upvotes 3 years ago

The user's decision to shave their head rather than continue using drugs like finasteride and minoxidil to try and stop hair loss, as well as other suggestions such as scalp micropigmentation.

community 35m 1.5 months on oral fin/min is it too good to be true?

in Progress Pictures 161 upvotes 2 years ago

A 35-year-old man, balding since 18, has seen growth of small, almost white hairs all over his scalp after 1.5 months on oral finasteride and minoxidil. Users suggest sticking with the treatment for a year, adding microneedling, and potentially trying RU58841 or dutasteride.

Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

community Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

in Research 865 upvotes 1 year ago

The treatment for androgenetic alopecia involves using finasteride and minoxidil with intense exercise and cold exposure to boost metabolism and reduce androgenic effects, potentially leading to hair regrowth. This approach may activate biological pathways for improved hair and overall health.

community I always hear the advice to reduce scalp inflammation. What are some non-steroidal ways to reduce inflammation?

in Treatment 13 upvotes 5 months ago

Non-steroidal ways to reduce scalp inflammation include using topical melatonin, urea shampoo, Zyrtec, turmeric with black pepper, omega-3 supplements, a self-made topical solution with cetirizine, melatonin, and piroctone olamine, ketoconazole shampoo, witch hazel shampoo, tacrolimus, and lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some users also mentioned unconventional methods like infrared light therapy and a carnivore diet.

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research Scalp Hair Regrowth Is Associated With Improvements in Health-Related Quality of Life and Psychological Symptoms in Patients With Severe Alopecia Areata: Results From Two Randomized Controlled Trials

4 citations , March 2023 in “SKIN The Journal of Cutaneous Medicine”

Hair regrowth improves quality of life and reduces anxiety and depression in severe alopecia areata patients.

research Hair Safe Study: Effects of Scalp Cooling on Hair Preservation and Hair Regrowth in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy - A Prospective Interventional Study

6 citations , April 2022 in “The Breast”

Scalp cooling reduces hair loss during chemotherapy but doesn't help hair regrow after.

research Modeling Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss: From Experimental Propositions Toward Clinical Reality

6 citations , February 2016 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology”

A new model using mice with human hair follicles helps better understand hair loss from chemotherapy.