Can I save my hair during chemotherapy?

Facing chemotherapy is challenging enough without the added worry of hair loss. For many, the prospect of losing hair isn’t just about appearance, it’s about identity, privacy, and a sense of normalcy.

Thankfully, there’s a solution that offers hope: Penguin Cold Cap Therapy.

Understanding Cold Cap Therapy

Cold cap therapy is a simple but powerful way to help protect your hair during chemotherapy. The process involves wearing a specially designed cap filled with a unique Crylon gel that is chilled to very low temperatures. The cap is worn before, during, and after your chemotherapy infusion to keep your scalp consistently cool.

Here’s what happens when you use a cold cap:

• Scalp cooling triggers vasoconstriction – the blood vessels in your scalp temporarily narrow, which reduces how much of the chemotherapy drug reaches your hair follicles.
• Hair follicles go into “rest mode” – the cooling effect slows down their normal metabolic activity, making them less vulnerable to the damage caused by chemotherapy.
• Hair loss is minimized – with less drug exposure, many follicles stay active enough to keep producing hair throughout treatment.

Cold cap therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free option that works alongside your chemo regimen without interfering with your treatment. While the first few minutes can feel very cold, similar to an “ice cream headache”, most people say the sensation becomes tolerable after about 10–15 minutes as the scalp goes numb. Warm clothing, blankets, or even a friend to chat with can make the process more comfortable.

By consistently cooling the scalp at the right temperature and for the right amount of time, cold capping can significantly reduce hair loss and help you feel more like yourself throughout your cancer journey.

Proven Success Rates

Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Penguin Cold Caps:

• 75% of patients retained more than 75% of their hair using the Penguin Cold Cap system.
• Success rates vary depending on the chemotherapy regimen:
  • 71.4% success for doxorubicin-based treatments.
  • 95.7% success for paclitaxel.
  • 96.6% success for docetaxel.

These results highlight the potential of cold cap therapy to significantly reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. To read more see, the evidence that cold cap therapy works.

Real stories, Real results

Patients who have used Penguin Cold Caps often share positive experiences:

“My hair looks amazing—super healthy, lots of growth, and most importantly, I still look like me.”
— Jennifer, breast cancer survivor.

“I am so happy with my results—I kept a positive attitude, and it worked!”
— Meg, multiple myeloma patient.

“Since my first session, I’ve told everyone about cold capping—including strangers and online support groups. Every woman facing chemotherapy should know that saving her hair is an option.”
— Liesl, retained 95% of her hair with cold cap therapy.

Take control of your journey

Hair loss can feel like one more thing cancer takes from you, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Choosing Penguin Cold Caps gives you the chance to preserve not just your hair, but your sense of identity and confidence during treatment.

Thousands of patients around the world have used cold capping to feel more like themselves while undergoing chemotherapy. By protecting your hair, you can focus on healing, stay engaged in everyday life, and decide for yourself who knows about your diagnosis.

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from helping you get set up before your first infusion to supporting you through every cap change.

If you’re starting chemotherapy soon, don’t wait. Learn more about how cold capping works, explore success stories, and order your kit in time for your first treatment. Taking action now can make a real difference in how you experience this chapter of your life.

To request a call back from a Penguin Rep near you, simply complete the form and they’ll answer any questions you might have.