Dealing with hair regrowth after chemotherapy can be both exciting and challenging. For me, it was the 'in-between' stage that I was most worried about. I rocked the short hair - donning black DM boots and plenty of eyeliner.
But the in-between stage has left me feeling a bit frumpy and unstylish.
It has lasted for ages too. It could be the effects of the Phesgo injections or my slightly incessant habit of booking hair cuts to stay as stylish as possible. After the Phesgo injections finished, I banned myself from the hairdressers and embraced the dowdy 1980's housewife look. Alice bands were my go to - flowers, velvet, fake gems all made the cut.
However, the other day I could no longer wash my hair and just let it freely hang round my ears wet, I had to wrap a towel around it. This felt like a monumental moment in my hair journey. There is finally enough length to warrant more than a quick towel dry - I have my first haircut booked in. The mullet look is not trendy, but now I have the hair to be able to style it once again.
If you are coming to the end of your treatment and starting to look to the future, here are some tips to help you navigate this stage:
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Be patient and gentle: Understand that hair growth is a gradual process. Be patient with your hair as it regrows and avoid harsh treatments or excessive heat styling that could cause it damage. As my hair has grown back, it has been tempting to play with dyes and new colours, but resist!
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Embrace the change: Use this opportunity to try out new hairstyles, colours, or cuts that you may have been hesitant to experiment with before. Embracing the change can be empowering and help boost your confidence. I never would have cut my hair that short, but actually really enjoyed the look!
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Practice self-care: Take care of your hair and scalp by using gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners. Consider using mild and natural products that are specifically designed for post-chemo hair care. A hair oil, massaged into the scalp, has made my new hair feel silky smooth and my scalp soothed.
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Protect your hair: Use satin or silk pillowcases, avoid excessive brushing or combing, and be mindful of using heat styling tools. Protecting your regrowing hair can help minimize breakage and promote healthier growth. Another advantage of silk pillowcases is how cool they feel during hot nights.
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Seek professional advice: Consult with a hairstylist who specializes in post-chemo hair to get guidance on how to style and care for your regrowing hair. They can provide tips tailored to your specific needs and help you feel more confident.
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Connect with support groups: Reach out to cancer support groups or online communities where you can find others who have gone through a similar experience. Sharing your thoughts, concerns, and experiences can provide emotional support and valuable advice.
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Prioritise your overall health: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly to support your overall hair health. Your hair reflects your overall well-being, so taking care of your body can positively impact hair growth. Self-care is important through your recovery.
Remember, hair regrowth is a personal and unique experience. Embrace the journey and focus on self-care and self-love as you navigate this exciting phase of regrowth after chemotherapy.
You've got this.