Education
Scalp Cooling Resource Center
A practical starting point for understanding scalp cooling and preparing questions for your care team.
Scalp Cooling 101
Scalp cooling lowers scalp temperature before, during, and after certain chemotherapy infusions. This may reduce blood flow and metabolic activity around hair follicles and can reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss for some patients. Effectiveness varies by regimen and individual circumstances.
Before deciding
Ask whether scalp cooling is appropriate for your diagnosis and chemotherapy regimen and which system your infusion center supports.
During treatment
Cooling commonly begins before infusion and continues during and for a period after chemotherapy. Protocols vary by system and treatment center.
Expectations
Scalp cooling does not guarantee hair preservation. Shedding can occur, and results vary.
Preparing for treatment
Questions to ask
- Is scalp cooling appropriate for my regimen?
- Which system is available?
- What are the total expected costs?
- What should I bring on infusion days?
- Is reimbursement documentation available?
Plan ahead
Confirm scheduling, fitting or cap requirements, payment arrangements, and the treatment center's specific protocol before the first infusion.
Hair-care considerations
Patients are often advised to use gentle hair handling during scalp cooling. Exact recommendations differ by system and care team. Avoid treating general online guidance as a substitute for the instructions supplied by your cooling provider or oncology team.
Frequently asked questions
Will I keep all my hair?
No result can be guaranteed. Outcomes depend on multiple factors, including the chemotherapy regimen and individual response.
Does insurance cover it?
Coverage and reimbursement vary. Ask your insurer about your specific plan and retain invoices and supporting documentation.
Is it right for everyone?
No. Discuss suitability and medical considerations with your oncology team.
This resource is educational and does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations.