Chemo, Hair Loss and the Cooling Cap     Are cooling caps the solution to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy?   At Freeda we often have customers who come in to choose a wig after chemo, many of them expecting not to have needed a wig due to a cold cap used during treatment.     What is a Cold Cap?   A cold cap seemed to be the answer to one of the most feared side effects of treatment, hair loss. FDA approved since 2015, this device cools the scalp which prevents significant hair loss during chemotherapy treatment.  Much like a bathing cap the device is worn during chemo and for up to two hours after. Cooling the scalp slows down blood flow to the follicles during the chemotherapy, which limits delivery of chemotherapy to the scalp, reducing hair loss.       What is considered significant hair loss?   Studies show that those who use the cold have lost less than 50% of their hair. While this number is significant, the disappointment of that much hair loss can be devastating. Those assuming they wouldn’t need wigs, that the hair loss would be minimal, are finding this isn’t so.   While a cooling cap has its merit, the price tag, usually $3000 or so, is not typically covered by insurance.   Typical results will be loss of about 50% of hair. Majority of women will not experience prevention of complete hair loss. While the goal is to prevent the most visible effect of chemo, the amount of hair loss can be more devastating from one who was hopeful not to have any significant change.       To sum it up, a wig may be necessary even while using the cold cap. Knowing this will make the experience better while enjoying the benefits of the cold cap if you choose to use one.   Getting a wig is the best way to look and feel like yourself during treatment. Call us for outstanding care and assistance; we will hold hand during this process.   Call us today at 718-771-2000