3 Questions About Scalp Cooling During Chemotherapy

Bring the name of your chemotherapy regimen to a scalp-cooling discussion. Ask the cancer team to explain what the option would mean at your treatment center.

Three questions for the cancer team

1. Am I a suitable candidate? Automated cooling is used for eligible solid-tumor chemotherapy. It is not appropriate for every cancer or treatment, including blood cancers and some conditions involving sensitivity to cold. Ask the team to assess your history and regimen.¹²
2. Which type of cap would I use? Automated systems circulate cooled liquid through a connected cap. Manual frozen caps need repeated replacement. Ask who will fit the cap, manage it and explain the device instructions.¹
3. What would the treatment day involve? Cooling continues before, during and after chemotherapy. Ask about added appointment time, costs and coverage, and how the team handles discomfort. Headache, feeling cold and other side effects can occur; manual caps have also been associated with thermal injury.¹²

Record the decision in your own words

Write down the expected benefit for your regimen, the practical requirements and the contact for further questions. Bring that record to your next discussion if the treatment plan changes.

Hair, Everywhere includes a Hair Log and gentle styling checklist. They can help organize observations and hair-care questions to discuss with your oncology team. See the book.