Use of hair dyes following chemotherapy.

A nswer: Hair provides no vital function but does protect the surface of the skin, conserves body heat, and contributes to self-image. Hair is associated with femininity (e.g., long hair) and masculinity (e.g., facial hair) and, for many, closely associated with sexuality (DeVillez, 2003; Ehmann, Sheehan, & Decker, 1991). Although not considered life threatening, chemotherapy-induced hair loss can emotionally devastate a patient who has endured life-threatening side effects associated with cancer therapy. The American Cancer Society (ACS) and others provide information about techniques to assist with cancer therapy-related hair loss. These techniques include choosing a wig, hairpiece, or toupee before the onset of treatment to match hair color, texture, and style, and treating the hair and scalp gently beginning before hair loss and continuing throughout hair regrowth. This includes use of a mild shampoo, soft hairbrushes, satin pillowcases, low settings on hair dryers, and scarves and hats to protect the scalp from the sun and prevent loss of body heat in cold weather, as well as avoiding brush rollers, permanents, and hair dyes (ACS, 2003a). An estimated 20%–40% of people in the United States regularly use hair color products (Sinnott, 1998). Although no research findings suggest that use of hair dye during hair regrowth following chemotherapy is harmful, most healthcare providers recommend that patients do not use hair dyes until hair returns to “normal,” a process that may take up to six months (ACS, 2003b). Some professional hair colorists assert that the new hair growth is “virgin” hair and, therefore, fragile and more vulnerable to the effects of hair dyes, especially those containing harsh chemicals such as peroxide. Effects of Dyes