Scalp cooling FAQs answered
Hair loss during chemotherapy can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of cancer treatment. We know how important it is to maintain a sense of identity and confidence throughout this journey. That’s why we offer scalp cooling as part of our specialist cancer care services at home.
Scalp cooling, also known as cold cap, is a simple yet effective method used to help minimise hair loss during chemotherapy. It’s an increasingly popular add on to treatment, compatible with a variety of chemotherapy regimens, making it accessible to a wide range of our oncology patients.
Whether you’re exploring your options or considering adding scalp cooling to your treatment plan, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions below to help inform your decision.
What is scalp cooling and how does it make a difference to your treatment?
Scalp cooling involves wearing a specially designed cold cap that cools the scalp before, during, and after chemotherapy. Scalp cooling reduces hair loss caused by certain chemotherapy drugs which aids with maintaining your sense of self and confidence during treatment.
Where do you have the scalp cooling treatment?
Our scalp cooling treatment is carried out outside of hospital, in patients’ homes. We contact patients prior to treatment starting to organise delivery of the scalp cooling machine which is a small unit that can easily live in the corner of a room. We also make an appointment for a patient consultation before starting treatment to talk patients through everything they need to know about scalp cooling or any part of their treatment and service. Patients will continue to have a point of contact to offer advice and support throughout the scalp cooling treatment.
Our specialists are there to ensure the scalp cooling process is as comfortable and effective as possible. We closely monitor patient comfort and the effectiveness of the scalp cooling throughout the treatment process, adjusting as necessary to optimise outcomes.
How does it feel?
There is a cold feeling at first, similar to that of if you stand outside on a cold winter day. As with standing out in the cold, it only takes a few minutes to get used to. Some people feel some initial discomfort with the cold sensation at the start of the cold cap treatment. Distracting yourself from the cold with music or having a conversation with someone is a good technique to manage this. Hot drinks and warm blankets are also helpful. The cold gives some people a headache – your chemotherapy nurse will be able to advise on mild painkillers to help with this.
Our experienced nurses will ensure the cold cap is fitted properly to maximise comfort and effectiveness, and will be there to support you as you adjust.
How does it work?
The process involves cooling the scalp throughout chemotherapy treatment and cooling the hair prior, during and after the treatment. This cooling effect is intended to reduce the blood flow to the scalp, thereby limiting the amount of chemotherapy medication that reaches the hair follicles. This in turn, can reduce hair loss from the chemotherapy treatment.
How do I book?
- Speak to your healthcare provider or oncology team to check if it’s suitable for your specific type of chemotherapy.
- If you’re a private patient, ask your clinician about incorporating scalp cooling into your care plan.
- Or simply get in touch with our team directly, we’re happy to discuss how we can help and guide you through the next steps.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help. Our experienced oncology care team is happy to answer any further questions you might have and help you decide if scalp cooling is the right choice for you.
“Having the scalp cooling machine enabled me to keep all my hair, and having the treatment at home was a real blessing”
– Roger, Lloyds Clinical Oncology patient
Roger is a Lloyds Clinical who received chemotherapy at home to treat prostate cancer. Roger chose to add scalp cooling to his treatment which meant he didn’t lose any of his hair. Read Roger’s story to find out more about how he received his chemotherapy and scalp cooling treatment at home.
We know the benefits of cancer care at home
For nearly 30 years we’ve pioneered the delivery of specialist cancer care services out of hospital, in patients’ homes.
We work to the highest clinical and safety standards. Our highly trained oncology nurses and clinical nurse specialists deliver 1-2-1 clinical treatment at home, with the equipment to respond as they would in hospital.
Our specialist cancer services ensure private, medically insured and self-paying patients who want an alternative to hospital can start their treatment faster.
