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For people whove undergone treatments for cancer, hair loss is a common but nevertheless stressful side effect.
Courtesy of Kelly Mellott
And, contrary to popular belief, the hard part isn’t over when your hair starts to return.
This story is part of our series onwomen’s experiences with cancer & hair loss.
Everything was coming and going and growing at different times.
Courtesy of Kelly Mellott
I got my hair trimmed and dyed as soon as I had enough to work with.
Her help support helped me make choices that better facilitate myhair goals.
How I handled the awkward phase:I think I am still in that phase.
Courtesy of Kelly Mellott
The first hair that I had growing in was curly and frizzy.
Before chemo, my hair was thin and flat.
I had to find the right products to keep mynew curlshappy.
Courtesy of Kelly Mellott
It was a lot of learning and experimenting.
I’ve also made a commitment to use toxic-free products, so that was a challenge, too.
One product I ended up liking wasSun Bum Texturizing Surf Paste Styling Product.
Courtesy of Kelly Mellott
Favorite hair milestone:I haven’t reached it yet, but I am anxiously awaiting myfirst ponytail.
Looks great on you, though!"
You’re totally rocking it.
I just don’t think everyone can pull it off like you!"
Biggest lesson:I’ve learned to keep an open mind to trying something new.
Advice for other women growing back their hair post-treatment:Don’t compare your progress to others.
It seems like some people’s hair grows ridiculously fast while others crawl along.
As told toJennifer Garam.
Survivor interviews have been edited for length and clarity.
Watch a woman’s hair loss journey:
