Bald and Beautiful - Kudos to Joan Lunden

Photo by PR Photos

Joan Lunden has gone bald for the cover of People magazine! 

The former co-host of Good Morning America recently announced she is battling breast cancer and has begun to experience hair loss as she undergoes treatment. This is an incredibly brave and compassionate act, and it should be commended. According to her interview on ABC, Ms. Lunden decided to be photographed without her wig for the cover in order to "help others." 

I've treated a number of cancer survivors pro bono over the years, and therefore Ms. Lunden's actions are especially touching. My heart goes out to anyone who is battling cancer and coping with the often challenging side effects of treatment. Unfortunately, in some cases the hair does not fully grow back after chemotherapy - or at least not to the same quality that it was originally. This is particularly true for older patients. But there is hope. Patients can utilize certain treatments, like low level laser therapy, to improve the quality, fullness and appearance of the hair. And many doctors have also begun using "Cold Cap Therapy," a new treatment that may help cancer patients protect their hair while undergoing chemotherapy.

MTV's Diem Brown Films Hair Loss

"Photo by PR Photos"

A couple weeks back, we talked about Popular MTV star Diem Brown's second fight with ovarian cancer and her fears of losing her signature blonde locks, for a second time. Brown has been blogging for People Magazine about her journey with cancer, and this week, she decided to make a chemo hair loss video. Brown's fears regarding hair loss are common among patients, both men and women. In fact, hair loss is often listed among the most commonly feared side effects after being diagnosed with cancer.  

To read more about Diem's journey with hair loss, and see her video, click here. 

While there is no sure way to prevent hair loss during treatment, there are several known ways to stimulate healthy hair growth following treatment - including low level laser therapy, hair vitamin supplements, and maintaining a healthy diet.  

Cold cap therapy is also becoming increasing popular, the therapy, which decreases blood flow to the scalp, causing the blood vessels in the scalp to shrink. This, in turn, blocks the harsh chemicals in the chemotherapy from reaching the hair follicles. While this is new technology, it does show promise for many patients.