Scalp Cooling System
oncology
Scalp Cooling System is available at 3 hospitals across 1 city in the Voumed network.
3 hospitals operate this technology across 1 country through the Voumed network; 3 of them hold JCI accreditation.
A scalp cooling system is a supportive technology that helps reduce hair loss during chemotherapy, one of the side effects patients often find most distressing. The patient wears a snug cap that gently chills the scalp before, during and after the chemotherapy session. Cooling narrows the small blood vessels in the scalp and slows the activity of the hair follicles, so that less of the chemotherapy drug reaches them and they are less affected. For many people, this helps keep more of their own hair through treatment, which can make a meaningful difference to confidence and daily life.
Key takeaways
- The device is a snug two-layer cap linked to a chiller unit, and it supports you through cancer therapy rather than treating the disease itself.
- It is offered to anyone on chemotherapy who wants to lose less hair, and it is normally set aside when the tumour sits in the scalp or the head and neck area.
- Cold narrows the vessels feeding the scalp so less drug arrives, and it slows the follicle cells down so they divide less while the medicine circulates.
- The cap goes on shortly before the infusion and stays on for a while afterwards, so each visit runs longer and the feeling is cold rather than sore, apart from possible brief tightness at the start.
- Nothing is guaranteed, since how much hair you keep tracks the drugs, the doses and your own response, and the oncology team confirms suitability before the first session.
On this page
At a glance
- Type
- supportive cooling device used during chemotherapy
- Used for
- helping to prevent or reduce chemotherapy-related hair loss
- Key benefit
- helps many patients keep more of their own hair during treatment
- Session
- worn before, during and after each chemotherapy infusion; sensation is cold, not painful
- Where it is used
- leading accredited cancer centres abroad
What it is
A scalp cooling system is a cap connected to a cooling unit that lowers the temperature of the scalp during chemotherapy. The cap usually has two parts: a soft inner cap through which a cooling fluid circulates against the head, and a firmer outer cap that holds it snugly in place for good contact. By keeping the scalp cold, the device works on the hair follicles, the tiny structures in the skin from which hair grows, helping to shield them from some of the effects of chemotherapy drugs. It is a supportive treatment, used alongside cancer therapy rather than as a treatment for the cancer itself.
How it works
Chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream and affect rapidly dividing cells, including those in hair follicles, which is why hair often falls out. Cooling the scalp narrows its blood vessels, reducing blood flow so that less of the drug reaches the follicles, and at the same time slows the follicle cells' division and activity, making them less vulnerable while the drug is in the body. The cap is put on a short time before the infusion starts, kept on throughout it, and worn for a period afterward while the scalp stays cool. The exact timing depends on the chemotherapy used and the patient.
What it treats and who it helps
Scalp cooling is offered to people receiving chemotherapy who wish to reduce hair loss, and it can be considered with many common chemotherapy regimens. Its effectiveness varies depending on the specific drugs, doses and the individual, so the care team discusses what to expect in each case. It is generally suited to patients who do not have cancer involving the scalp or the head and neck region, and the oncology team confirms whether it is appropriate for a particular person. The decision is always made together with the treating team as part of the overall care plan.
Benefits and what to expect
The main benefit is keeping more of your own hair during chemotherapy, which many people value highly for their sense of normality and privacy. The procedure is non-invasive and generally well tolerated; the most common experience is a feeling of cold and, for some, a brief headache or tightness as the cooling begins, which usually eases. It does add time to each chemotherapy visit, since the cap is worn before and after the infusion as well as during it. Results vary from person to person, and your care team explains the likely outcome, supports you through each session and answers any concerns.
Frequently asked questions
These answers are general guidance and may vary by provider. Confirm the details with the hospital you choose.
Does scalp cooling hurt?
It is not painful. Most people feel cold, and some notice a brief headache or a sense of tightness when the cooling starts, which usually settles after the first few minutes. The team can suggest simple ways to stay comfortable.
Will it completely stop my hair from falling out?
Not always. Scalp cooling aims to reduce hair loss and help you keep more of your hair, but results vary depending on the chemotherapy drugs, the doses and the individual. Your care team explains what is realistic in your situation.
How long do I need to wear the cap?
The cap is put on a short time before the infusion begins, worn throughout it, and kept on for a period afterward while the scalp stays cold. This means each chemotherapy visit takes somewhat longer than usual.
Is it safe to use during chemotherapy?
It is a widely used supportive technology considered safe for many patients. It is generally not used when the cancer involves the scalp or head and neck area, and the oncology team checks that it is suitable for you before starting.
Can anyone having chemotherapy use it?
Most patients on suitable chemotherapy regimens can be considered, but it is not right for everyone, and its benefit depends on the specific drugs. Your oncology team confirms whether it is an appropriate option in your case.
Will I feel cold for a long time?
You feel cold mainly while the cap is on, before, during and after the infusion. Once the cap is removed and the scalp warms again, the cold sensation passes.
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