TLDR New cooling caps can help prevent hair loss from chemotherapy in a cost-effective and eco-friendly way.
This narrative systematic review analyzed 52 studies on innovations in scalp cooling technologies to address chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). The review highlights that gel-based, cryogel, and silicone-based cooling caps provide cost-effective alternatives to machine-operated systems, while biodegradable and recyclable materials improve environmental sustainability. Solar-powered and reusable designs are promising for low-resource settings. These innovations can enhance equity in cancer care by making hair-preserving interventions more accessible and sustainable for low-income patients.
6 citations
,
April 2022 in “The Breast” Scalp cooling reduces hair loss during chemotherapy but doesn't help hair regrow after.
4 citations
,
November 2021 in “Cancers” The document concludes that understanding and managing hair loss in cancer patients is important, and more research is needed for better treatments.
11 citations
,
October 2020 in “PLoS ONE” Cooling can protect hair follicles from chemotherapy damage by reducing drug uptake.
17 citations
,
June 2020 in “Anais brasileiros de dermatologia/Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Scalp cooling is an effective way to prevent hair loss from chemotherapy.
4 citations
,
December 2019 in “Trials” YH0618 granule may help prevent hair loss in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
110 citations
,
August 2014 in “International journal of cancer” Scalp cooling significantly reduces chemotherapy-induced hair loss.
62 citations
,
February 2011 in “Expert review of dermatology” Scalp cooling can reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss and should be available in all hospitals.
October 2023 in “Biomaterials” Nanotechnology could improve hair regrowth but faces challenges like complexity and safety concerns.
August 2025 in “Aesthetic Plastic Surgery” Collaboration and innovation are key to developing effective, safe hair loss treatments.
4 citations
,
November 2021 in “Cancers” The document concludes that understanding and managing hair loss in cancer patients is important, and more research is needed for better treatments.
2 citations
,
January 2023 in “Frontiers in Oncology” Mild oxidative stress can prevent hair loss from chemotherapy.