Persistent Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia (PCIA): What It Is and What To Do About It

Hair loss is one of the most common and distressing side effects of cancer treatment. For many patients, the expectation is that hair will eventually regrow after chemotherapy ends. But for some, the hair doesn’t return fully, or at all. This condition is known as Persistent Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia (PCIA).

What Is PCIA?

PCIA is long-term or permanent hair loss that continues six months or more after completing chemotherapy. Unlike temporary chemotherapy-related shedding, which often reverses on its own, PCIA can cause:

• Thinning across the scalp

• Patchy regrowth

• Reduced density or coverage

• Ongoing miniaturization of hair follicles

While not everyone experiences PCIA, studies suggest it can affect a significant percentage of patients depending on the chemotherapy drugs used.

Why Does PCIA Happen?

Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells in the body — including cancer cells and, unfortunately, hair follicles. While most follicles recover after treatment ends, in some cases the damage is more severe, leading to permanent changes in follicle structure and activity.

PCIA differs from temporary chemo-related hair loss because:

• Regrowth is incomplete or absent even long after treatment.

• Hair texture may change, appearing finer, weaker, or patchy.

• Density is reduced, especially in areas most sensitive to follicle damage.

This can be emotionally difficult for survivors who are otherwise moving forward in their recovery.

Advanced Therapies at Ederra Zara

At Ederra Zara, we understand the deep impact PCIA can have on confidence and quality of life. That’s why we offer cutting-edge, non-surgical therapies designed to help restore scalp health and encourage regrowth:

• LaseMD Ultra Scalp Laser
  Creates microchannels in the scalp to boost absorption of restorative serums while gently stimulating follicles.

• Exosome Therapy
  Delivers regenerative cellular messengers that encourage follicle activity and reduce inflammation.

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)
  Uses growth factors from your own blood to nourish follicles, improve blood flow, and promote stronger regrowth.

• Hair Peptide Cocktails
  Infuses the scalp with peptides, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and nutrients that support follicle health and density.

These treatments are often used in combination for the best results, and can be tailored to your unique needs and hair restoration goals.

Offering Hope and Next Steps

Experiencing PCIA can feel discouraging — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Advanced therapies are available to help stimulate regrowth, strengthen thinning hair, and restore confidence.

If you’re struggling with persistent hair loss after chemotherapy, schedule a scalp analysis and consultation with our team. Together, we’ll build a customized treatment plan designed to support your healing journey.

At Ederra Zara, we believe survivorship should include not only health, but also self-confidence.

Ready to learn more? Book your consultation today and explore our advanced therapies for PCIA here.