Can radiotherapy cause hair loss? Yes — but only in the area of the body directly receiving radiation. Unlike chemotherapy, which can cause widespread hair loss throughout the body, radiotherapy-induced hair loss is localised to the treatment field. Whether it is temporary or permanent depends on the radiation dose, fractionation schedule, and individual factors. This article explains how and why radiotherapy affects hair follicles, which body areas are most commonly affected, what to expect during recovery, and how NHS services and cancer charities can support you through treatment.
Summary: Radiotherapy can cause hair loss, but only in the specific area of the body being treated, not throughout the body as with chemotherapy.
- Hair loss from radiotherapy is localised — it only occurs within or immediately adjacent to the radiation treatment field.
- Hair follicles are rapidly dividing cells, making them particularly vulnerable to ionising radiation damage.
- At lower radiation doses, hair loss is usually temporary, with regrowth typically beginning three to six months after treatment ends.
- Higher radiation doses (generally from around 40–45 Gy with conventional fractionation) increase the risk of permanent hair loss in the treated area.
- Regrown hair may differ in texture, colour, or thickness compared to before treatment.
- NHS wig provision and support from charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support and Cancer Research UK are available to eligible patients.
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How Radiotherapy Can Cause Hair Loss
Radiotherapy damages rapidly dividing hair follicle cells within the treatment field, causing localised hair loss that is confined to the irradiated area, unlike the systemic hair loss associated with chemotherapy.
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Yes, radiotherapy can cause hair loss, though whether this occurs depends largely on the area of the body being treated. Radiotherapy works by delivering targeted doses of ionising radiation to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours. It does this by damaging the DNA within rapidly dividing cells, preventing them from reproducing. Hair follicles are among the body's most rapidly dividing cell populations, which makes them particularly vulnerable to radiation-induced damage.
When radiation is directed at or near a region where hair grows — most commonly the scalp, but also the face, chest, or pubic area — the follicles within the treatment field can be temporarily or permanently disrupted. This is quite different from chemotherapy-related hair loss, which tends to affect the whole body because chemotherapy drugs circulate systemically through the bloodstream. With radiotherapy, hair loss is localised and confined to the specific area receiving treatment. In rare cases, very minor hair thinning just beyond the edge of the treatment field may occur due to radiation scatter, but hair loss does not occur in distant areas such as the scalp when treatment is directed at the limbs or chest.
The degree of hair loss depends on several factors, including:
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The total radiation dose delivered to the area
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The fractionation schedule (how the dose is divided over time)
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The size of the treatment field
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Individual patient sensitivity, which can vary considerably
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Concurrent treatments, such as chemotherapy given alongside radiotherapy
At lower doses, hair loss may be partial and temporary. At higher doses, the risk of permanent hair loss increases — this risk generally rises from around 40–45 Gy with conventional fractionation, though thresholds vary depending on the fractionation schedule, treatment technique, and individual factors. Your clinical team will discuss the expected side effects based on your specific treatment plan before you begin.
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Information in this section is consistent with guidance from NHS.uk (Radiotherapy – Side effects), Cancer Research UK, and Macmillan Cancer Support.
| Factor | Temporary Hair Loss | Permanent Hair Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Typical radiation dose | Lower doses, palliative-intent radiotherapy | High doses, generally from ~40–45 Gy with conventional fractionation |
| Treatment intent | Palliative or lower-dose curative regimens | Radical/curative-intent, re-irradiation of previously treated fields |
| Areas commonly affected | Scalp, face, chest, groin, axilla within treatment field | Scalp (especially brain tumour radiotherapy), re-irradiated sites |
| Regrowth timeline | Typically 3–6 months after treatment ends | Follicles permanently destroyed; regrowth unlikely or partial |
| Hair texture/colour on regrowth | May be finer, curlier, or slightly different in shade | Not applicable; permanent loss in treated area |
| Practical support options | Wigs, headscarves, hats; NHS wig provision may apply | Specialist hairpieces, scalp micropigmentation (usually private); confirm NHS funding with ICB |
| Key guidance sources | NHS.uk, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support | Discuss prognosis with oncologist; informed consent required before treatment |
Which Areas of the Body Are Most Affected
Hair loss occurs only in the area directly exposed to radiation; the scalp is most commonly affected during treatment for brain tumours or head and neck cancers, whilst pelvic radiotherapy may cause pubic or perineal hair loss.
Hair loss from radiotherapy only occurs in the area directly exposed to radiation. This is an important distinction for patients to understand, as it means treatment to the leg, for example, will not cause scalp hair loss. The most commonly affected areas include:
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The scalp: Hair loss here is most associated with radiotherapy for brain tumours, head and neck cancers, or skull-based metastases. This is often the most distressing form of radiation-induced hair loss for patients.
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The face: Radiotherapy targeting facial skin cancers or salivary gland tumours may affect eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard hair.
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The chest: Treatment for lung cancer or breast cancer involving the chest wall may cause loss of chest hair in the radiation field.
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The groin and pubic area: Pelvic radiotherapy for cancers of the prostate, cervix, bladder, or rectum can result in loss of pubic or perineal hair.
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The axilla (armpit): Radiotherapy targeting lymph nodes in this region may affect underarm hair.
In some cases, very mild thinning may occur just at the edge of the treatment field due to radiation scatter, but this is usually minimal and hair loss remains localised to the irradiated area.
The skin within the treatment field may also become red, sore, or sensitive — a condition known as radiation dermatitis — which can compound the distress associated with hair loss in visible areas. Your radiotherapy team can advise on appropriate skin care products and techniques; UK guidance from the Society of Radiographers and UKONS provides evidence-based recommendations for managing radiation skin reactions. Patients receiving treatment to the head and neck region are particularly likely to notice hair thinning or loss, and this should be discussed openly with the oncology team so that appropriate support can be arranged in advance.
Is Hair Loss From Radiotherapy Permanent or Temporary
Hair loss is often temporary at lower doses, with regrowth beginning within three to six months, but higher doses increase the risk of permanent follicle destruction and lasting alopecia in the treated area.
Whether hair loss from radiotherapy is temporary or permanent is one of the most common questions patients ask, and the honest answer is that it depends on the radiation dose received, the fractionation schedule, and individual factors. In many cases, particularly where lower doses are used, hair loss is temporary. Regrowth typically begins within three to six months after treatment ends, though it may begin earlier or later depending on the individual. The texture and colour of regrown hair may differ from before — it may be finer, curlier, or slightly different in shade, and these changes may persist.
At higher radiation doses — with the risk generally increasing from around 40–45 Gy with conventional fractionation — the hair follicles may be permanently destroyed, resulting in lasting alopecia in the treated area. Thresholds vary with fractionation schedule, treatment technique, concurrent therapies, and individual sensitivity, so your clinical team is best placed to advise on your specific situation. Permanent hair loss is more likely in patients receiving radical radiotherapy for brain tumours or those undergoing re-irradiation of a previously treated field. In some cases, hair may regrow partially but remain thinner or patchier than before.
It is important to be aware that:
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Temporary hair loss is more common with lower-dose or palliative radiotherapy
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Permanent hair loss is more associated with high-dose, curative-intent treatment
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Regrowth timelines vary between individuals and cannot always be predicted with certainty
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Some patients experience a delayed regrowth of six months or more
Your oncologist or therapeutic radiographer should be able to give you a realistic expectation based on your prescribed dose and treatment site. If permanent hair loss is likely, this should be discussed as part of the informed consent process before treatment begins, allowing time to explore practical and emotional support options.
Further information is available from Cancer Research UK (Hair loss after radiotherapy) and Macmillan Cancer Support (Hair loss and radiotherapy).
Managing Hair Loss During and After Treatment
There is no clinically proven method to prevent radiation-induced hair loss, but gentle skin care, sun protection, and NHS wig provision can help patients manage practically and emotionally during and after treatment.
Managing hair loss during and after radiotherapy involves both practical measures and emotional support. There is currently no clinically proven method to prevent radiation-induced hair loss in the treatment field, unlike scalp cooling, which is sometimes used during certain chemotherapy regimens. However, there are several strategies that can help patients cope more comfortably.
During treatment:
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Use gentle, fragrance-free shampoos and avoid harsh brushing or heat styling in the treatment area — always follow your radiotherapy team's advice on which products are safe to use on irradiated skin
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Protect the scalp from sun exposure using a soft hat or a sunscreen of at least SPF 30–50 with a high UVA rating (4–5 stars); irradiated skin remains more sensitive to UV radiation and should be protected long term, even after treatment ends
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Avoid tight hairstyles or accessories that may irritate the scalp
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Consider cutting hair shorter before treatment begins, which some patients find makes shedding easier to manage
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Only use skin and hair products on the treated area that have been approved by your radiotherapy team, to avoid irritating sensitive or healing skin
After treatment:
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Allow the scalp time to recover before using chemical treatments such as dyes or perms, and seek guidance from your team on when this is safe
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Gentle scalp massage may support circulation, though evidence for promoting regrowth is limited
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Wigs, hairpieces, headscarves, and hats are all valid options
NHS wig provision: Patients undergoing cancer treatment may be eligible for an NHS wig or fabric support. In England, standard NHS charges apply unless you are exempt (for example, through the NHS Low Income Scheme or receipt of certain benefits). Arrangements differ across the devolved nations — wigs may be available free of charge in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Your clinical nurse specialist can advise on local entitlements and refer you accordingly. Further information is available from the NHS Business Services Authority (Help with health costs – Wigs and fabric supports).
For patients experiencing permanent hair loss, scalp micropigmentation and specialist hairpieces are available privately. NHS funding for these interventions is uncommon and depends on local Integrated Care Board (ICB) or trust policy — patients should confirm what is available in their area with their clinical team.
Emotional support is equally important; hair loss can significantly affect body image and self-esteem, and referral to a clinical psychologist or support group should be offered where needed.
NHS Support and Resources for Patients
NHS wig provision, Macmillan Cancer Support, Cancer Research UK, and the Look Good Feel Better charity all offer practical and emotional support to patients experiencing hair loss from radiotherapy.
The NHS and associated cancer charities offer a range of support services for patients experiencing hair loss as a result of radiotherapy. Understanding what is available can help patients feel more prepared and less isolated during what can be a challenging time.
NHS wig provision: Patients undergoing cancer treatment, including radiotherapy, may be eligible for an NHS wig or fabric support. In England, standard NHS charges apply unless you qualify for an exemption (for example, via the NHS Low Income Scheme or certain benefits). Provision differs across the devolved nations — patients in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland should check with their clinical team or local trust. The NHS Business Services Authority (www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk) provides up-to-date information on charges and exemptions for England.
Macmillan Cancer Support (www.macmillan.org.uk) offers detailed guidance on hair loss during cancer treatment, including practical tips, emotional support, and a helpline (0808 808 00 00) staffed by specialist nurses.
Cancer Research UK (www.cancerresearchuk.org) provides patient-friendly information on radiotherapy side effects, including hair loss, and can signpost to local support groups.
Look Good Feel Better is a UK charity offering free workshops and online tutorials to help people manage the visible side effects of cancer treatment, including hair loss and skin changes.
Within NHS trusts, clinical nurse specialists (CNS) and allied health professionals such as occupational therapists and psychologists play a key role in supporting patients through treatment-related body image changes. Patients are encouraged to ask their oncology team about what local services are available, as provision can vary between NHS trusts.
NICE guidance on supportive and palliative care (NICE CSG4) and NICE Quality Standard QS15 (Patient experience in adult NHS services) both emphasise the importance of addressing the psychological and social impact of cancer treatment, including visible side effects such as hair loss, and of involving patients in shared decision-making throughout their care.
Reporting side effects: If you or your carer wish to report a suspected side effect or safety concern related to your treatment, this can be done via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or by calling 0800 731 6789.
When to Speak to Your Clinical Team
Patients should contact their clinical team promptly if hair loss occurs outside the treatment field, if there are signs of skin infection, or if expected hair regrowth has not begun within three to six months of completing treatment.
Whilst hair loss from radiotherapy is a well-recognised and expected side effect in treated areas, there are certain circumstances in which patients should contact their clinical team promptly. Open communication with your oncologist, therapeutic radiographer, or clinical nurse specialist is always encouraged — no concern is too small.
Contact your clinical team if you notice:
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Hair loss occurring outside the treatment field, which may suggest another cause requiring investigation
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Significant scalp irritation, blistering, weeping, or signs of infection in the treated area — including spreading redness, warmth, severe pain, fever, or feeling generally unwell — which may indicate radiation dermatitis or infection requiring prompt medical management
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Unexpected or rapid hair shedding that causes significant distress, so that timely support can be arranged
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Hair that has not begun to regrow within three to six months of completing treatment, particularly if low-dose radiotherapy was used and temporary loss was expected — earlier contact is always welcome if you are concerned
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Any new lumps, skin changes, or symptoms in or around the treated area, which should always be assessed promptly
If you are unsure whether a symptom needs urgent attention, contact your hospital's 24-hour acute oncology or radiotherapy advice line — your team will provide this number at the start of your treatment. If you are unable to reach your team and are concerned, NHS 111 can provide guidance.
From an emotional wellbeing perspective, if hair loss is significantly affecting your mental health, self-confidence, or daily functioning, please raise this with your team. Referral to psychological support services, peer support groups, or a specialist oncology social worker can make a meaningful difference. The emotional impact of hair loss is a legitimate and recognised aspect of cancer care and should be treated with the same importance as physical symptoms.
Your clinical team is there to support you throughout your treatment journey, and early communication about concerns — whether practical or emotional — leads to better outcomes and a more positive experience of care.
Further guidance on when to seek help is available from NHS.uk (Radiotherapy – Side effects and when to get help).
Frequently Asked Questions
Will radiotherapy cause me to lose all my hair?
Radiotherapy only causes hair loss in the specific area of the body being treated, not all over the body. If your treatment is directed at the scalp or head, you may lose hair there, but treatment to other areas such as the chest or pelvis will not affect your scalp hair.
How is hair loss from radiotherapy different from hair loss caused by chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream and can cause widespread hair loss across the whole body, whereas radiotherapy-induced hair loss is strictly localised to the area receiving radiation. This means the pattern and extent of hair loss differ significantly between the two treatments.
Can radiotherapy cause permanent hair loss, or will my hair grow back?
Whether hair loss from radiotherapy is permanent depends on the radiation dose — lower doses typically cause temporary loss with regrowth beginning within three to six months, whilst higher doses can permanently destroy hair follicles. Your oncologist can advise on the likelihood of permanent hair loss based on your specific treatment plan.
Am I entitled to a free NHS wig if I lose my hair during radiotherapy?
Patients undergoing cancer treatment, including radiotherapy, may be eligible for an NHS wig or fabric support, though standard charges apply in England unless you qualify for an exemption. Provision varies across the UK — wigs may be available free of charge in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — so ask your clinical nurse specialist what you are entitled to locally.
Is there anything I can do to prevent hair loss during radiotherapy?
There is currently no clinically proven method to prevent hair loss within a radiotherapy treatment field, unlike scalp cooling, which is sometimes used during certain chemotherapy regimens. Your team can advise on gentle skin and hair care during treatment to minimise additional irritation to the affected area.
What emotional support is available if hair loss from radiotherapy is affecting my mental health?
Hair loss can significantly affect body image and self-esteem, and your oncology team can refer you to psychological support services, peer support groups, or an oncology social worker. Charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support (helpline: 0808 808 00 00) and Look Good Feel Better also offer specialist emotional and practical support for people experiencing treatment-related hair loss.
The health-related content published on this site is based on credible scientific sources and is periodically reviewed to ensure accuracy and relevance. Although we aim to reflect the most current medical knowledge, the material is meant for general education and awareness only.
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