Cold Capping: The Game Changer in Hair Loss Solutions

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A cancer diagnosis is devastating, and the journey is one of life's most challenging. I have been honored to work with many cancer survivors over the years, being the most profound work I have tackled. For years, I worked with wigs, hair toppers, and hair extensions throughout a client's journey, but today, the results of Cold Capping have been miraculous.

What is Cold Capping During Chemotherapy

Cold Capping is a procedure administered during chemotherapy treatments, that cools the scalp, and restricts blood flow to hair follicles, and prevents most of the drug from entering the hair follicles. The result is that most of a chemotherapy patient's hair is preserved, making it a game changer in hair loss solutions for those with breast cancer. Recently, a lovely client shared her experience with chemotherapy and cold capping, she was treated at Mass. General Hospital of Boston, Mass. Dr. Paxman invented the Cold Capping technology for his wife Sue. Unfortunately, Sue lost her hair, but the invention has proven successful for cancer survivors. My clients who have undergone "cold capping" have preserved over 50% of their own hair with the use of less chemotherapy. Results vary based on the stage of cancer, hair loss, and the condition of their natural hair. This preservation of hair is especially important during the first treatment session, as hair follicles are most susceptible to damage at this time.

Chemotherapy Induced Hair Loss

Chemotherapy-induced hair loss is a common and distressing side effect of cancer treatment. For many patients, the loss of hair can be emotionally challenging, affecting self-esteem and overall well-being. Cold capping has emerged as a game changer in addressing this issue, offering hope and empowerment to those undergoing chemotherapy. By minimizing the impact of chemotherapy on hair follicles, cold capping has allowed numerous cancer survivors to maintain a sense of normalcy and preserve a part of their identity during their treatment journey. As we delve deeper into the realm of cancer treatment, the significance of innovative solutions like cold capping comes to light. Amidst the distressing effects of chemotherapy-induced hair loss, cold capping emerges as a beacon of hope for many undergoing treatment. The ability to preserve one's own hair through this technology not only lessens the physical impact but also nurtures a sense of normalcy and empowerment during a challenging time. It is through stories like these, where resilience meets innovation, that we witness the transformative power of human ingenuity in the face of adversity. Cold capping serves as a constant reminder of the disease, but also as a symbol of hope and strength in the face of cancer. The preservation of one's own hair through cold capping provides a sense of control and a positive mental attitude during a difficult time.

Paxman Scalp Cooling System Story

I am honored to share a video of the story of the Paxman Scalp Cold Cap below.

Paxman Scalp Cooling system The Paxman Scalp Cooling system has revolutionized cold capping, offering cancer patients a chance to retain their hair during chemotherapy. With over 50% of users preserving their hair, this technology has provided a sense of normalcy and empowerment to those undergoing treatment. The system works by attaching a cooling cap to a cooling machine, which pushes cold liquid through the cap while you’re wearing it. The amount of hair you're able to retain with the Paxman Scalp Cooling system depends on factors such as your starting amount of hair, the health of your hair and scalp, and the type and dose of your chemotherapy medication. To learn more about the inspiring journey behind the Paxman Scalp Cooling system, as well as its effectiveness and potential benefits, talk with your healthcare provider and watch the video at coldcap.com/our-story/.

Dignicap Scalp Cooling

Dignicap Scalp Cooling has also made significant strides in the realm of scalp cooling for chemotherapy patients. This innovative technology has been instrumental in reducing hair loss from certain chemotherapy treatments, specifically for patients with solid tumors. By prioritizing the preservation of hair follicles, Dignicap Scalp Cooling system has not only lessened the physical impact of chemotherapy but has also contributed to the emotional well-being and confidence of patients. The continued development and accessibility of such solutions, cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), highlight a promising future for those navigating through the challenges of cancer treatment.

Side Effects of Cooling Cap and Insurance Coverage

The side effects of cooling caps include headaches, scalp pain, and discomfort due to the cold temperature. Despite these potential side effects, many patients find the benefits of retaining their hair worth the temporary discomfort.

When it comes to insurance coverage for cold capping, it varies depending on the insurance provider and policy. Some insurance companies may cover a portion of the cost of scalp cooling, while others may not provide any coverage at all. It is advisable for patients to check with their insurance provider beforehand to understand the extent of coverage available for scalp cooling treatment throughout their course of chemotherapy. Additionally, there is financial support available for scalp cooling from an organization called "Hair to Stay," which can help offset the cost of scalp cooling for those in need. Patients can also invest in a portable cooler with dry ice to bring the cold caps to each infusion session, making the process more convenient and accessible.

How Noelle Salon Helps with Clients Who Have Cold Capping

When a client enters our salon after chemotherapy and cold capping, I find that most of the hair loss is at the top of the head, sides, and crown of their head. This makes sense since hair follicles tend to be weakest in these areas. At this point, I will check to determine if their hair is shedding, if not, we can proceed to fill in their hair with invisible hair extensions by CombLine. This revolutionary hair extension technique, allows me to add one strand of hair to one strand of my client's hair. The adhesive is invisible, therefore it is the first hair extension method that does not require a client's hair to cover the hair extensions.

Hair Toppers for Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss

If there is too much hair loss, we then will use a hair topper to cover the top of the head until their own hair grows. The hair topper is not shaven or glued in place, which allows the natural hair to grow back healthy.

I wanted to share this technique with all cancer patients and their loved ones. Although chemotherapy is necessary the after-effects of hair loss decrease one's self-esteem.  

We are here, to help in every aspect of their journey, and restoring one's looks is heartfelt. The beautiful client in the picture left with tears in her eyes. She cried tears of joy and allowed me to take pictures, and share her experience.

If we can share our experience, and help just one cancer survivor, then we have done our job. 

How effective is cold capping in preserving hair during cancer treatment?

Cold capping has shown to be highly effective in reducing hair loss during chemotherapy by constricting blood vessels in the scalp, limiting the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach the hair follicles. This method can help many cancer patients maintain their hair and self-esteem during treatment.

Hair Extensions Background

At Noelle Salon, they evaluate your natural hair, and listen to the client's wishes on styling, color match, and look. They use human hair extensions like 100% Remy human hair, or Virgin Hair (unlike Bellami hair). Hair extensions can be used for short hair or 24 inches of a full head of hair, and they have worked with different methods like tape-in extensions, clip-in hair extensions, Keratin and enjoy using the Veila Pull-thru method with the Veila Hair Extensions for ease of hair care. Styling can vary from flat iron, natural curl, or curly hair. Whether you are looking for a change of style or look for a day such as a Clip-in ponytail, having a high-quality ponytail extension can mix it up for you. Your natural hair journey with your hair growth can be enhanced with hair extensions when protective styling is applied, and regular maintenance is used. You can change your hair in one day with the use of hair coverings - feel free to reach out and explore the possibilities.