It is a known fact that chemotherapy leads to hair loss. It is an unavoidable side effect. Most people undergoing chemotherapy wear hats that help protect their exposed scalp from extreme weather conditions.
There are several options in the market for hats for cancer patients. They help provide patients with comfort and protection while they undergo their treatment. It acts as an ideal solution while patients wait for their hair to grow back.
Why do people opt for hats during treatment?
All patients experience hair thinning and hair loss when undergoing cancer treatments. This leaves their scalp exposed and vulnerable to damage due to harsh weather. People choose to cover their heads in multiple ways.
The hair present on one’s head shields the scalp from harmful UV rays. Cancer patients tend to experience hair thinning and hair fall 1-3 weeks after they begin treatment. This leads to their scalp feeling sensitive. People choose from wigs, scarves, hats and caps to provide relief and comfort during this period.
The difference between cooling caps and regular hats
Cooling caps are a specialised category of hats. They aid with scalp hypothermia, which destroys hair follicles during cancer therapy.
They work towards reducing hair thinning and hair loss by restricting the flow of blood to the scalp. This leads to a reduced amount of drugs reaching the hair follicles, which helps shield them from extensive damage.
Hats for cancer patients are meant to provide comfort and warmth, which helps protect the scalp. They do not constrict the blood vessels and thereby do not affect the chemotherapy process in contrast to cooling hats.
Factors to consider when choosing a hat
There are multiple reasons why patients are inclined towards wearing hats while they undergo treatment. They include:
Comfort
Extensive chemotherapy leaves patients with an exposed scalp, leading to sensitivity and itchiness. Hats that are seamless and do not have stitches inside help reduce irritation. Hats are also available in softer fabrics such as cotton, which help curb the itching sensation and relieve patients.
Needs
The purpose of the hat is to provide patients with protection and comfort. Most patients tend to consider the weather when purchasing a hat. They choose warmer options during the winter season and more breathable options during the summer seasons.
Fit
The hat’s fit is a preference that varies from individual to individual. People tend to buy hats that suit their personalities and daily activities. Some prefer tightly fitted hats, while others prefer a more relaxed fit, such as a beanie.
Material
Hats are available in a variety of materials. Each has its advantages. More sturdy materials such as cotton and bamboo are less likely to slip or move around when compared to materials like silk or nylon. They also provide better comfort when compared to the latter.
Product Care
Most patients prefer buying hats that do not have extensive wash and care instructions. Machine or hand washable models which can be quickly dried are chosen. The durability and life of the product are of crucial importance as well.
Coverage
Patients should opt for hats that provide complete scalp coverage. This protects the entire scalp from all types of harsh weather conditions such as heat, cold and rain.
Chemo hats were introduced to provide cancer patients with the extra needed protection. They make the process of undergoing the harsh chemotherapy treatment a little more bearable. Something that started as a means of safety has evolved over the years.
Multiple trends have been adopted by companies that produce these chemo hats. They provide the users with fashionable designs to choose from. This helps boost their confidence and morale while undergoing treatment.
