Scalp Cooling Caps During Chemotherapy — What You Need to Know
Share
Hair loss is one of the most distressing side effects of chemotherapy for many patients. Scalp cooling — also called cold capping — has been used for decades as a method to reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss, and cooling caps are now widely available in Australia.
Here's what you need to know about scalp cooling caps and how Arctic Heat cooling caps work.
How Does Scalp Cooling Work?
Chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream and affect rapidly dividing cells — including hair follicle cells. Scalp cooling works by reducing blood flow to the scalp during chemotherapy infusions, which limits the amount of chemotherapy drug that reaches the hair follicles. This can help reduce or delay hair loss for some patients.
Results vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drug, the patient's individual response, and how the cap is used. Scalp cooling is not effective for all chemotherapy regimens, so it's important to discuss this option with your oncology team first.
How to Use an Arctic Heat Cooling Cap
Arctic Heat cooling caps are simple, affordable, and reusable. Unlike electric scalp cooling systems, they use the same crystal gel technology as our cooling vests — no machines, no rentals, and no clinic dependency.
- Freeze the cap for at least 2 hours before your treatment
- Put it on 30 minutes before your infusion starts
- Swap caps every 20–30 minutes during treatment to maintain the cold temperature
- Continue wearing a cold cap for 30–90 minutes after infusion, depending on the drug protocol
This is why many patients purchase a Chemo Kit of 3, 4, or 5 caps — so they can rotate through fresh caps during treatment without interruption.
What Size Do I Need?
Arctic Heat cooling caps are one-size-fits-most and are designed to fit snugly over the scalp. They are available in Blue and White.
Tips for Best Results
- Start the cooling protocol as early as possible — before your first infusion if possible
- Keep caps in a portable cooler bag during transport to maintain temperature
- Ask your oncology nurse about their recommended wearing protocol for your specific treatment
- Some patients find wearing a thin cotton cap underneath improves comfort
Where to Buy Scalp Cooling Caps in Australia
Cool Down Australia has supplied Arctic Heat cooling caps to Australian chemotherapy patients since 2012. We offer single caps and multi-cap chemo kits with fast shipping across Australia.
Please note: Scalp cooling is a complementary approach and results vary by individual and treatment type. Always consult your oncologist or medical team before beginning scalp cooling.