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Cut hair before chemo?

Page last modified on: September 19, 2008
Question from Donna: I'm starting chemo next week. I know I will lose my hair. My hair is long; should I cut it now and can I use my own hair for a wig? If so, who can help?
Answer —Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.: If you cut your hair before it falls out, many professional wig makers will be able to style you a natural-looking wig with your own hair. You can also have a ponytail or bangs made from your own hair to wear under a hat or scarf.

You might be amazed at the quality of the wigs you can get without using your own hair. This can save you hundreds and hundreds of dollars. I would recommend that you speak with a nurse at your treatment center about people s/he may have worked with in the past. Women with very long hair have also donated their hair before it falls out to an organization that makes wigs for children. The organization is called Locks of Love.

On Wednesday, February 18, 2004, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Chemotherapy Updates. Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. and Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about advances in chemotherapy treatment: different types of drugs and regimens, how to reduce or eliminate unpleasant side effects, and more.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. is a medical oncologist specializing in the treatment of breast cancer, with a a special interest in cancer survivorship, patient-physician communication, and quality of care for women with breast cancer.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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