Hair dye

Hi I'm taking capecitabine can I dye my hair ?  

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    Chemotherapy can weaken hair follicles and can also cause skin sensitivities.

    There is information on the cancerhaircare website about colouring hair before, during and after cancer treatment that may be useful to read. Generally speaking, most patients undergoing this treatment will be advised not to dye their hair. This is because whilst not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss, the treatment may cause thinning and the hair to become more fragile and sensitive to harsh chemicals. We always advise patients to check with their doctor or specialist nurse first, just to be on the safe side.

    Some people might not want to wait to dye their hair. You can ask your hairdresser about henna dyes or vegetable-based dyes. These are gentler on the hair than the standard types of hair colouring. So hair specialists think it is safe to use them. But it is worth testing before you use it.

    I hope this helps. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene