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Hair loss from chemo

Hair loss is the most-searched chemo side effect: in a 2024 study of chemo searches, it made up 43.6% of side-effect search terms. Not every treatment causes it. Many chemo drugs do, while most immunotherapy, hormone and targeted pills cause little or none.

When it happens

Hair usually starts to fall out within the first 3 weeks of chemo. It usually starts to grow back 2–3 months after treatment ends, sometimes with a different color or texture. Rarely, hair loss can be permanent.

What helps at home

Ask your team if your drugs cause hair loss and whether scalp cooling is an option at your center.
Some people cut their hair short before it falls out to make it feel less sudden.
Use a soft brush, gentle shampoo and low heat.
Protect your scalp from sun and cold with a hat or scarf and sunscreen.
Ask whether a wig is covered by insurance; it may need a prescription for a 'cranial prosthesis'.
Losing your hair can be emotional. It's OK to grieve it, and support groups can help.

Call your care team now if you have:

Your scalp is red, painful or has sores
You feel very down or anxious about the change

Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.

Drugs on this site linked to hair loss

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Find support

CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information

Common questions

Does all chemo cause hair loss?

No. It depends on the drug and the dose.

When does hair grow back after chemo?

Cleveland Clinic says it usually starts to regrow within 2–3 months after you finish treatment.

Does Keytruda cause hair loss?

Keytruda alone is not known for causing hair loss; chemo given with it is.

Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write

Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.