Hello Lymphomies! Let’s face it. One of the most painful parts of a cancer diagnosis is the fact that we probably will lose our hair. I remember clinging to the small percentage my doctor gave me that it’s possible I’d keep my hair through treatment. In fact, I held on so tight I didn’t shave my head until right before my 10th chemo. That’s a long time of looking like Golam from Lord of the Rings.
The process of shaving my head was more of a relief than anything. I didn’t get as emotional as I thought I would, but I sure did miss being able to throw my hair in a top knot. Prednisone face also isn’t the cutest when you can’t hide behind hair. But hey, if I learned anything through this experience it’s that HAIR is JUST HAIR, and IT GROWS BACK!
Immediately after my treatment, I wanted to speed up my hair growth (the natural way,) and make sure it grew back as healthy and wonderful as possible. Now that treatment was over and I wasn’t a cancer patient, I didn’t want to look like one anymore.
As such, I wanted to share some of the natural products I used to strengthen and speed my hair growth. Some products may work for you and some may not, but I am here to share the products that worked for me. Feel free to try just one at a time, or all at once if you’re feeling courageous. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about trying any of these products.
Wild Hair Growth Oil
This little bottle of magic has so many nutrients that were making my hair not only grow, but making it healthy and strong again. This oil contains olive oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, vitamin D, choline, inositol, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and calcium.
All you have to do is shake the bottle up and squirt 5-10 drops on your scalp, and rub it in or brush it through your hair.
Castor Oil
Castor Oil is wonderful even if you are not dealing with total hair loss, and want to strengthen and grow your hair longer. I used to use castor oil on my eyebrows and it works wonders.
The most effective way to use castor oil to promote hair growth is to leave it on overnight. Squirt it in your hair, rub it all around, put a shower cap on and continue with your nightly routine. Either wash it out in the morning, or throw on a hat and make way with your day! Be sure to find 100% castor oil.
Hair Skin and Nails by It Works
The one product I think was most effective in producing hair growth was the Hair Skin and Nails supplement by It Works. However, it should be noted that you have to directly contact a rep in order to get this product.
You take two large pills filled with amazing nutrients and natural earthly ingredients once a day. (Be sure to speak to your doctor before starting any new vitamin or supplement.) I’m not a representative for the company, and am not sponsored to say these things, but I really do swear by this product. My post-chemo hair is strong, thick and healthy. It also is growing at a rapid speed that I would have never predicted.
This supplement contains: The minerals selenium, zinc, and manganese to protect and support your natural skin renewal and collagen production. Vitamins C, E, B6, and 1,667% of the RDA of biotin, a B-vitamin important for healthy hair growth, strong nails, and glowing skin. A proprietary blend of plant-based nutrients known for their beautifying properties, including Japanese seaweed, grape seed extract, goji berry, and melon pulp extract, all rich in antioxidants, enzymes and amino acids.
And there you have it! I highly recommend chatting with your healthcare team to keep open communication about the products and supplements you are taking. For me, we thought it was best to start any supplements once I was done with chemo and the other medications I was taking. However, I did begin with the oils during treatment.
Always remember: Everything’s gunna be OK!
***
Note: Lymphoma News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Lymphoma News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to lymphoma.
