Hair loss is a stressful side effect for many going through radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments can cause significant damage to hair follicles, making normal hair growth unlikely during the treatment period. BIGVITA’s Scientific Advisor, explains the mechanisms behind treatment-induced hair loss and potential ways to mitigate it.
Â
“Chemotherapy drugs like methotrexate (MTX) and certain platinum-based agents can kill or inhibit the growth of hair follicles,” he explains. The goal of treatments is to inhibit tumor growth, but can also affect other rapidly growing cells. This is why hair follicle cells are particularly vulnerable during cancer treatment.
Â
Realistic Expectations During Treatment
Given the damage inflicted on hair follicles during radiation and chemotherapy, expecting significant hair regrowth during treatment is unrealistic. However, BIGVITA’s Scientific Advisor suggests that certain supplements can help prevent severe hair loss, mitigate, or delay the process. “Knowing that hair follicles are damaged during radiation and chemotherapy, the best we can do is to protect them as much as possible,” he notes.
Â
Post-Treatment Hair Recovery
Fortunately, the damage caused by these treatments is not due to follicle obstruction but rather the external impact of chemicals and physical agents. This means that once the reliance on chemotherapy and radiation decreases or stops, hair follicles have the potential to regrow.
Â
BIGVITA’s Hair + offers hope for post-treatment recovery. It contains AnaGain™ Nu which promotes hair growth during various phases, including the anagen (growth) and telogen (resting) phases. BIGVITA’s Scientific Advisor highlights that this growth factor can be particularly beneficial for follicle recovery after treatment. “What sets Hair + apart from other supplements is its ability to support hair growth even when nutrients are lacking,” he says.
Â
In summary, while radiation and chemotherapy can severely impact hair follicles, protective measures and targeted supplements can aid in post-treatment recovery, offering a pathway to regrowth and renewed confidence. By understanding the underlying causes and utilizing effective solutions, patients can better manage and eventually overcome this challenging side effect of cancer treatment.
