Hair loss is often one of the most visible and emotional parts of breast cancer treatment. And for some, it can feel like a huge loss on top of everything else; after all, your hairstyle is closely tied to your identity and confidence.
At the House of Hope, we want you to know you’re not alone and that we want to help provide you with support, choice and care for your hair at every stage of the journey.
Preparing for hair loss during treatment
Not everyone undergoing treatment will lose their hair, but for those who do, the anticipation can be overwhelming. Some people choose to wait and see how things progress, while others decide to take control early, often referred to as “the big shave”.
It's an individual choice. For some, shaving their head before hair starts to fall out feels empowering and practical. For others, allowing the process to unfold naturally feels gentler. What matters most is having the information and support to choose what’s right for you.
Simple steps can help before your treatment begins, including:
being gentle with your hair and scalp
reducing heat styling and tight hairstyles
discussing and assessing wig options, scarves or head coverings early
thinking about whether donating your hair feels right for you
And importantly, knowing you don't have to face these decisions alone.
Our very first haircut at the House of Hope
A moving moment for the House of Hope Team was welcoming Meagan, who was the first person to have her hair cut in our salon space.
Meagan visited our open day shortly after starting chemotherapy and shared her plans to shave her head before hair loss began and we are proud to have been a part of that process for her.
In Meagan’s own words:
“The House of Hope had their open day in June 2026, shortly after I’d started chemotherapy to treat my primary breast cancer. Knowing that I would soon lose my hair, I was considering whether I should just ‘brave the shave’ before it started falling out on its own. My partner and I went to the open day at the House of Hope and were excited and inspired to hear about their mission. We chatted to the lovely Lisa about my treatment journey so far and my plans to shave my head in time to donate my hair.
Lisa and the team contacted me after our visit to offer us an appointment at the House to have this done on-site! Raymond was wonderful and made the experience feel so comfortable for my partner and me. It was so nice to be able to share this experience rather than muddle through it on my own at home. I am hugely grateful for the kindness and support of the team at HoH during this really challenging time. Thank you!”
Moments like this reflect exactly why the House of Hope exists. Part of our mission is to turn difficult milestones into supported experiences. Thanks to Meagan for sharing your story and pictures of your haircut – you are beautiful!
Caring for your scalp and hair during treatment
Every experience is unique, and you may lose some hair, all of it, or none at all. Scalp care is just as important as hair care during treatment.
If hair begins to regrow during or after treatment, it may return with a different texture, colour or curl pattern. This phase can be exciting but also bring mixed emotions, and support and community can make a world of difference.
Regular hair support at the House of Hope
As part of our growing services, we’re delighted to be introducing regular hair appointments in our bespoke hair and wig salon, offering a safe and supportive space for anyone affected by cancer.
Appointments will run monthly, starting on Friday 26th January, and then on the last Friday of each month. These sessions will be run by the wonderful Natalie from Chapter One Hair Spa, whose experience and compassion make her a wonderful addition to the House of Hope Team.
Meet Natalie
With over 23 years’ experience in hairdressing, Natalie specialises in supporting people affected by cancer at every stage of hair loss and regrowth.
She offers:
compassionate head shaves
wig fitting, cutting and styling
advice-based appointments
restyling and aftercare during regrowth
Natalie understands just how emotionally challenging hair changes can be. Her approach combines technical expertise with empathy, reassurance and respect so that every member of our community feels listened to, fully informed and supported.
You don’t have to do this alone
Hair loss can be one of the hardest parts of treatment, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. Whatever your needs or questions, the House of Hope Team and our strong breast cancer community are here to support you.
If you’d like to book a hair appointment, check out our booking page or email support@houseofhope.org.uk.
It was so nice to be able to share this experience rather than muddle through it on my own at home. I am hugely grateful for the kindness and support of the team at HoH during this really challenging time.
