My experience with Penguin cold capping for breast cancer chemotherapy

By Lauren O’Connell

Session number two and hoping for the best.

When my oncologist first told me I needed chemotherapy, my mind was a whirlwind of emotions. I wasn’t just scared of the harsh treatment ahead—I was dreading losing my hair. I’ve always adored my locks and took pride in caring for my mane.

I discovered cold capping, also known as scalp cooling. This technique involves wearing a special cap filled with a cold substance before, during, and after chemotherapy to help reduce hair loss. The cooling effect constricts blood vessels in the scalp, reducing the amount of chemo drugs that reach hair follicles. Since chemo targets fast-dividing cells, hair is often an unfortunate casualty. I felt that breast cancer had already taken so much from me. I wanted to give it a try and preserve my hair.

Even though cold capping didn't work for me, it does work for many. I absolutely suggest giving it a try.

I opted for Penguin cold capping and had an expert perform the service for me. Despite the tough regimen, I was told I had a 50/50 chance of success. I read countless positive testimonials from other women, so I decided to give it a shot.

My hair fell out in several clumps, just like this one.

Sadly, it didn’t work for me. After the second dose of the red devil, my hair started falling out in clumps. I was one of the unlucky ones, but I’m glad I tried. Cold capping was intense—the dry ice was -50 degrees Fahrenheit, and the cap was so tightly wrapped around my head it made me nauseous. It had to be changed every 15 minutes for about eight hours, making it a long and taxing process.

Wearing a hat at -50 degrees made me cold! I had several blankets, mittens, and socks yet I couldn't stop shivering.

If it had worked, I would’ve stuck with it. But since it didn’t, I decided to cease treatment and shaved my head. Sometimes you have to try, even if it doesn’t turn out the way you hoped.