Why does chemotherapy make your hair fall out?

Why does chemotherapy make your hair fall out?

Marilyn Sherlock (Trichologist) gives expert video advice on: If my hair falls out as a result of chemotherapy will it grow back?; How do I find out more about chemotherapy and hair loss? and more...

Chemotherapy makes your hair fall out because the drug that is being used to kill the cancer also destroys the delicate cells that are at the base of the hair bulb and are the growing cells of the hair. This is a necessary evil, because without that happening, you can't kill the cancer cells. It can sometimes be avoided, providing it is not required for the drug to go right round the body, depending on the type of cancer, and depending upon the drug. It is sometimes possible to use a cold cap, which restricts the blood flow in the head, and sometimes retains the hair growth.