Can immunotherapy cause hair loss?

Immunotherapy works by changing immune activity. In some people, that activity affects hair follicles or the skin around them. Hair may become thinner, fall out in patches, or change in texture. Hair loss can also have another cause, such as chemotherapy, hormone treatment, thyroid problems, stress, or a scalp condition.

The timing is not identical for everyone, and hair changes may appear with other immune-related effects. Immunotherapy is used in several cancers, including [melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/) and [lung cancer](/conditions/lung-cancer/), but the medicine and accompanying treatments influence what you experience.

Tell your oncology team when you first notice shedding, itching, redness, scaling, or painful areas. Take a photograph if a patch is changing quickly. Use gentle shampoo, avoid harsh chemicals and high heat, and protect exposed scalp from strong sunlight with clothing or a product recommended by your team.

Ask before using minoxidil, herbal products, hair dye, or a wig adhesive because an irritated scalp may react differently. Your clinician may examine the scalp, review other medicines, and arrange a dermatology opinion if the pattern is unusual.

Report rapidly spreading hair loss, intense scalp pain, blisters, open sores, facial swelling, or a rash affecting the eyes or mouth. These changes can signal skin inflammation or an allergic reaction and should be assessed rather than self-treated.

Get urgent help for swelling of the lips or tongue, severe breathing difficulty, faintness, or widespread blistering. Keep taking or pausing treatment only as directed by your cancer team.

Ask whether your hair change is more likely related to immunotherapy or another treatment, whether scalp tests are needed, what products are suitable, and how to manage itching or visible thinning. You can also ask which cancer-specific information applies to your treatment, such as [bowel cancer](/conditions/colorectal-cancer/) or [lymphoma](/conditions/lymphoma/).