What to Expect on Your First Day of Scalp Cooling

Starting chemotherapy can be overwhelming enough. Add scalp cooling to the mix and it's natural to feel anxious about what you don't know. The good news? Many patients say that after they've done it once, the process feels much more manageable. This guide walks you through what to expect during your first scalp cooling session.

Before You Arrive: How to Prepare

A little preparation goes a long way on your first day. Before your appointment:

• You may choose to wet your hair while at home, the morning of treatment to arrive at your infusion appointment with damp hair. The hair will need to be re-wet during the process, so arriving prepared allows for easy touch-ups with the spray bottle.

• Dress in warm, comfortable layers. Scalp cooling can make you feel cold, especially in an already cool infusion suite.

• Bring a warm blanket, snacks, and entertainment. Sessions can be several hours long.

• Ensure your Cooler Heads accessory tote is packed up and ready to go. 

What Happens When You Get There

Once you're settled wearing your Amma gear, scalp cooling runs continuously before, during, and for a period afterward chemotherapy  (typically 2-3 hours post-infusion, depending on the chemotherapy used). You can read, watch a show, talk with loved ones, or rest. 

Questions to Ask Your Infusion Center

• Am I a good candidate for scalp cooling given my specific regimen?

• How long should I plan to be at the infusion center, including post-infusion cooling?

• What is the anticipated likelihood of retaining 50% of my hair on this regimen?

• If I plan to scalp cool, will I be required to relocate from my infusion chair after chemotherapy is over during my post-cooling time? 

Your first day is usually the hardest. Many patients find that each session gets easier once they know what to expect. 

Questions during treatment? Reach out to our Customer Care team, we're here to support you every step of the way.

—-----------—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Cooler Heads provides scalp cooling services and related education to cancer patients across the United States. This education provides an overview of the scalp cooling procedure. It does not dictate individual facility policy. Please coordinate directly with your nursing staff to confirm your role on treatment day. This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult your oncologist before making any decisions about your treatment.