Protecting Your Hair During Treatment: The Benefits of Cooling Caps

Chemotherapy is often accompanied by a feared side effect: hair loss.
For many patients, this alopecia represents a difficult ordeal, affecting self-image and morale. Fortunately, solutions exist to reduce this risk. Among them, cooling caps (also called cold caps) stand out as an effective and increasingly popular method in hospitals. In this article, we explain how these devices work and why they are becoming an essential ally for patients undergoing treatment.

1. How do cooling caps work?

Cooling caps are medical devices designed to lower the temperature of the scalp during a chemotherapy session. This temporary cooling reduces blood flow in the area, thereby limiting the exposure of hair follicles to chemotherapy agents.

In practice, the cap is worn before, during, and after the session, for a total duration that varies depending on the protocol. The drop in scalp temperature creates a protective effect that helps retain some hair, and in certain cases, may even prevent hair loss entirely.

2. What are the benefits for patients?

• Reduced alopecia: Studies show that cooling caps can significantly reduce hair loss, a major relief for patients concerned about maintaining their appearance.

• Improved quality of life: Preserving one’s hair helps maintain a sense of normality, reducing the psychological impact of treatment.

• Emotional support: For many patients, keeping their hair helps them better face others’ perceptions and feel more in control of their illness.

3. A solution increasingly adopted in hospitals

Many hospitals and cancer treatment centers are now equipped with cooling caps, often thanks to initiatives led by OncoNeivia. These devices are well tolerated by patients, with side effects generally limited to temporary discomfort from the cold. Costs are often partially or fully covered, depending on the healthcare system and institution.

4. A few tips to optimize the use of cooling caps

• Discuss it with your medical team: Not all types of chemotherapy are compatible with cooling caps. Your oncologist will advise if this option is suitable for your treatment.

• Prepare for longer sessions: Wearing the cap requires extra time before and after chemotherapy. Plan activities to keep yourself occupied during this period.

• Treat your hair gently: To maximize effectiveness, avoid harsh treatments such as coloring or straightening.

Conclusion
Cooling caps represent a significant advancement in improving the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy. By reducing the risk of alopecia, they allow individuals to approach treatment with greater peace of mind. At OncoNeivia, we are proud to provide these solutions to hospitals, contributing to a more human and patient-centered care journey.