How scalp cooling works
Scalp cooling (commonly known as "cold capping") is a means to lower scalp temperature to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy. Scalp cooling works by inducing vasoconstriction and reduction of metabolism, which leads to reduced blood flow to the hair follicles in the period of peak plasma concentration of the chemotherapy agent. As a result, the hair follicles become less vulnerable to damage from the chemotherapy agent.
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Options available
There are currently two methods for scalp cooling: ​​
Machine Cold Capping
This method employs a plug-in system which includes a hypothermia cap connected to a computer-operating cooling and control unit; the system circulates coolant through channels in the cap, and sensors ensure optimal temperature is continuously maintained throughout treatment.
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This method is only used at participating cancer centers. You can check which cancer centers have these devices installed by visiting the following vendors' websites:
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Manual Cold Capping
This method employs portable gel caps that are cooled (either by dry ice in a personal cooler or an infusions center’s bio-medical freezer) to an optimum temperature (typically between -26 and -36 degrees celsius) and rotated on the head every 20-30 minutes, depending on the company’s guidance.
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These portable caps can be used at any location. You can see available vendors at the following websites:
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Additional Resources
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The Rapunzel Project: A national non profit that promotes awareness of the existence and efficacy of cold cap therapy. Their website explains the scalp cooling process, identifies vetted cold cap providers, and lists all locations that offer machine capping as well as those who have a biomedical freezer to support manual capping. Helpful tips for cap users, and links to years of research and media coverage are also part of the site. They also donate biomedical freezers to supportive cancer centers.
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Hair to Stay: A national nonprofit with the shared goal of making cold capping affordable for patients
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Breastcancer.org: Provides an overview of cold capping during breast cancer treatment and a link to their forums where patients share their tips and experiences
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More information and resources coming soon! Have a question in the meantime? Contact us:
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