Does Radiation Therapy Cause Hair Loss
- 4 Causes & 6 Regrowth Tips
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Over 1 million Treatments
delivered
Rated 92%
on Trustpilot
Award winning
Clinics Across the UK
9 Clinics
Across the UK
Expert Team of
professionals
Hair loss during cancer treatment might be one of the most complex parts of the journey.
Radiation therapy can cause hair loss. However, this happens only in the area being treated with radiation.
If the treatment is directed at your head, it may result in hair loss on your scalp. The severity depends on factors like the radiation dose, treatment duration, and individual reactions.
Hair loss may be temporary or permanent, depending on the context of damage to the hair follicles.
In this article, we will discuss why radiation causes hair loss, how long it typically lasts, and whether regrowth is a natural process.
Radiation Therapy Hair Loss: 4 Causes, 3 Recovery Facts & 3 CoLaz Solutions
Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy beams to target cancer cells. But it can also impact nearby healthy cells, including hair follicles. When this happens, hair loss may occur in the treated area.
Radiation hair loss is typically localized, meaning it affects only the area of the body where the treatment is focused.
Why Radiation Leads to Hair Loss
Radiation can damage hair follicles by stopping them from growing new hair. The risk depends on the amount of radiation you receive and where it’s aimed.
Key points:
- High doses of radiation cause more hair loss
- Only the treated area is affected (e.g., scalp, chest, or face)
- Hair loss can be temporary or permanent, relying on the dose and your skin's sensitivity.
Which Areas Are Most Affected
The part of the body being treated determines where hair loss may happen. You won't lose all your body hair unless you're receiving full-body radiation.
Common areas for radiation-related hair loss include:
- Scalp: often affected during brain or head cancer treatment
- Face: may include eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard area
- Body: depends on where treatment is targeted (e.g., chest, legs, arms)
Will Your Hair Grow Back?
In many cases, hair starts to grow back a few weeks or months after radiation therapy ends. However, it might not grow back the same way.
Hair regrowth depends on:
- The dose of radiation used
- How long was the area treated
- Unique factors like skin health or age
In some cases, regrowth is thinner, a different color, or may not return fully if follicles were deeply damaged.
Hair Regrowth Timeline
Hair loss often begins 2 to 3 weeks after treatment starts, and regrowth may begin within 1 to 3 months after treatment ends. The full recovery can take 6 months to 1 year.
What to expect as hair regrows:
- It may feel softer or finer at first
- Texture and color may temporarily change
Some people notice patchy or slow regrowth
Tips to Support Hair and Scalp During Recovery
Taking care of your scalp before, during, and after radiation therapy can help protect the hair that remains and support new growth.
Helpful care tips:
- Use mild shampoos and avoid harsh chemicals
- Don’t use hot styling tools like straighteners or blow dryers
- Avoid tight hairstyles that drag the hair
- Keep your scalp protected from sun exposure
- Eat a good diet that is full in vitamins and protein
Hair Restoration Options Available at CoLaz
If your hair doesn’t grow back as expected or you’re dealing with thinning or bald spots, CoLaz offers professional hair restoration services tailored to your needs.
CoLaz services include:
Laser Hair Regrowth Therapy
- Boosts blood flow to your hair follicles
- Encourages healthy regrowth for thinning hair
- Non-invasive and safe for post-radiation clients
Hair Loss Consultation
- One-on-one expert guidance to create your personal recovery plan
- Product recommendations and timeline expectations
- Support for both temporary and permanent hair loss
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)
- Adds natural-looking pigment to the scalp
- Ideal for clients with permanent hair loss
- Helps restore confidence with a fuller appearance
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
Conclusion
Hair loss during radiation therapy can be upsetting, but there is help available. Whether your hair grows back on its own or you need support with hair restoration, it’s important to know that you have options.
At CoLaz, we offer trusted solutions to support your recovery. From non-surgical treatments to expert consultations, we’re here to help you feel like yourself again.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Radiation only causes hair loss in the area being treated. For example, if you're receiving radiation on the scalp, only the hair on your head will be affected.
Hair may start growing back 3 to 6 months after treatment ends, although this timeframe can vary. In some cases, it may take up to a year.
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