Chemotherapy can lead to many changes in the body, and a common side effect is the alteration of hair texture, frequently referred to as “chemo curls.” This shift develops during or after cancer treatment. These changes are a temporary, yet sometimes lasting, consequence of specific medical interventions.
Understanding Chemo Curls
Chemo curls manifest as hair that is curlier, wavier, or coarser than an individual’s original texture. Some may also notice changes in hair color (darker or lighter) or thickness (finer or thicker). These alterations occur because chemotherapy drugs, designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells, also affect other fast-growing cells, including those within hair follicles.
Hair follicles are structures in the skin responsible for hair growth. Chemotherapy agents disrupt the normal cell division cycle within these follicles, leading to damage or temporary changes in their function. As a result, the hair shaft growing after chemotherapy may have a different structure, leading to changes in curl pattern, texture, or pigment.
The Typical Duration of Chemo Curls
Chemo curls are generally temporary, with hair eventually returning to its pre-chemotherapy state. Hair regrowth begins within weeks to a few months after chemotherapy completion, though the exact timeline can vary. The initial regrowth often appears as soft, fine “baby hair” before gaining more substance.
Hair texture returns gradually, often taking several months to a year or more. During this period, individuals might notice a mix of textures as new hair grows and replaces chemo-affected strands. Full restoration depends on the complete recovery of hair follicles and the growth of several new hair cycles.
Factors Influencing Permanence
While often temporary, factors can influence whether chemo curls persist or become permanent. The type of chemotherapy drugs used plays a role, as some agents are more likely to induce lasting follicle changes. Higher dosages or more prolonged treatment regimens can also increase the likelihood of more persistent alterations.
Genetic predisposition may influence how hair follicles respond, leading to more stubborn texture changes. Age is another consideration; older individuals might experience more prolonged or permanent hair changes compared to younger patients. Pre-existing hair characteristics, such as natural hair type and overall hair health before treatment, can also affect the extent and duration of chemo curls.