Undergoing chemotherapy is a stressful and painful time. Your body aches, and you're fighting for your life. You shouldn't have to worry about the unfortunate side effect of hair loss. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help minimize the amount of hair you actually lose. If you would like more information, check out these three options.

Hypothermia

One of the best methods for reducing hair loss is hypothermia, but don't let the name scare you. You're only chilling your head, not your entire body. Patients wear a frozen gel cap that reduces the amount of blood to the area. This means your hair follicles receive less chemo medication, so they are not as damaged. The downside is that you can only use scalp hypothermia for certain types of chemo. On top of that, the process is uncomfortable or even painful because of the low temperature on your head.

Hair-Loss Creams

While there are a lot of creams out there that claim to regrow hair, the only one that really works is minoxidil. This is commonly known as the name-brand Rogaine, and it is most popular among balding men. However, for some chemotherapy patients, using minoxidil can slow the hair loss, so you keep your hair longer. In addition, it may help some patients regrow their hair faster after chemotherapy is finished. This treatment, however, is not perfect either. It can cause scalp irritation. It is also an expensive option that your insurance will likely not cover.

Hair-Loss Therapy

If you cannot afford other options, or the minor side effects scare you, there are hair-loss therapies, you can try. They will likely not prevent your hair loss completely, but they may help slow the process, so you have more hair left when the treatment is over. These include non-natural treatments, such as other types of hair-thinning solutions or pills. They also include natural therapies, such as being gentle with your hair. Avoid heat products and styling solutions. Before choosing anything, however, speak with your doctor to determine if it safe for you while undergoing chemotherapy.

If you are going to undergo chemotherapy, your hair will likely thin. However, there are a few steps you can take to minimize your hair loss. Above all, treat your hair well even if you choose scalp hypothermia or minoxidil. If you would like to know more about safe ways to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy, start talking to your doctor about cold caps and scalp hypothermia today.