Scalp cooling therapy is a method used during chemotherapy that involves applying a cooling cap to the scalp to help reduce chemotherapy hair loss. Also known as scalp hypothermia, this approach works by lowering the temperature around the scalp, which reduces blood flow to the hair follicles. This cooling effect aims to limit the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach hair follicles, which may help to protect them from the effects of the treatment.
How Does Scalp Cooling Work?
Scalp cooling may be done in one of several ways:
- Ice packs are applied to the scalp during chemotherapy sessions and swapped out as they warm up.
- Scalp cooling caps filled with cold gel or frozen material are worn during treatment. Once the cap warms up, it’s replaced to keep the scalp at a low temperature.
- Scalp cooling systems connect a room-temperature cap to a machine that continuously circulates coolant, keeping the scalp cold without the need to switch caps. These systems often have sensors that help regulate the temperature throughout the session.
Scalp cooling treatment begins shortly before chemotherapy starts and continues during and after the treatment session to help maintain the protective cooling effect. This approach has helped some people keep more of their hair, although results may vary based on the type of chemotherapy and individual factors.
How Does the Portable Unit Compare to Traditional Scalp Cooling?
Portable scalp cooling units offer a more convenient alternative to traditional methods of scalp cooling during chemotherapy. Unlike traditional options like ice packs or cold cap therapy that need frequent replacement to maintain a steady temperature, portable scalp cooling systems are machine-operated and continuously circulate a cooling fluid, keeping the scalp at a stable temperature throughout the session.
Traditional scalp cooling involves caps or packs that must be manually switched out once they warm up, often requiring assistance from a caregiver or clinic staff. With portable units, there’s no need to change caps since the cooling fluid maintains the target temperature. This steadier cooling can make the process simpler and may reduce the need for extra assistance.
Additionally, portable units allow for precise temperature control with sensors, ensuring that the scalp temperature remains consistent, which is difficult to achieve with traditional methods. This can make the experience more comfortable for some users, as the portable unit can help avoid fluctuations in temperature that may occur with ice packs or manual caps.
Both approaches have benefits, and some people prefer traditional cooling methods for their simplicity, while others may find the reliability and ease of portable units more appealing. The choice between traditional and portable scalp cooling depends on personal preference, treatment setting, and availability.
Who Qualifies for Scalp Cooling?
Scalp cooling may be an option for certain patients undergoing chemotherapy at the Charach Cancer Treatment Center at Detroit Medical Center (DMC) Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital. Eligibility for scalp cooling is primarily based on your specific chemotherapy regimen, as recommended by your healthcare team.
Your oncologist and care team will review your treatment plan, assess the chemotherapy drugs involved, and discuss whether scalp cooling could be a beneficial option for you. While scalp cooling may help reduce the risk of hair loss for some patients, its effectiveness varies based on factors like the type and frequency of chemotherapy, as well as individual responses to treatment.
What Are the Costs for Scalp Cooling?
Scalp cooling costs can vary depending on the specific system used and the number of treatment sessions required. Some private insurance carriers, as well as Medicare, may provide coverage for scalp cooling, though coverage can depend on your specific plan.
For patients seeking financial support, the nonprofit organization Cap & Conquer may help cover scalp cooling costs. This can help make the treatment more accessible and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Please talk to your insurance provider to help you explore available resources and answer questions about insurance coverage.
How To Prevent Hair Loss During Chemotherapy?
Although scalp cooling isn’t guaranteed to prevent all hair loss, many people find it helpful in preserving some or most of their hair. If you are interested in trying scalp cooling, it’s best to talk with your care team to see if this option is suitable based on your treatment plan and medical needs. They can help you explore whether scalp cooling might be effective for you and guide you through the process, including any support services available to make scalp cooling more accessible.
Does Scalp Cooling Work for Chemo?
Scalp cooling may help reduce hair loss for some people undergoing chemotherapy, though the results can vary. Some patients who use scalp cooling during chemotherapy may keep some or most of their hair, depending on the type and dosage of chemotherapy they receive, as well as their unique hair and scalp characteristics. Scalp cooling may not work for everyone, but it can be an effective option for some individuals, especially for those with solid tumor cancers.
Find an Oncologist
If you’re interested in exploring scalp cooling, the Charach Cancer Treatment Center can help. We can guide you on whether scalp cooling may be an option for you and help you understand what to expect based on your treatment plan. For more information, please contact the Charach Cancer Treatment Center at 248-937-5077.
