Redefining Recovery - The Role of Hair Restoration After Cancer

For many cancer survivors, the end of treatment should mark the beginning of recovery. Yet for countless men and women, one of the most visible reminders of their journey remains - hair loss.

Through a new partnership between Alvi Armani South Africa and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), survivors now have access to medically guided hair restoration treatments and medications that supports both their confidence and emotional well-being.

The initiative offers complimentary consultations and assessments for cancer survivors, providing safe, evidence-based treatments that help restore a sense of normalcy.

“Hair loss is one of the most emotional effects of cancer therapy,” says Dr Kashmal Kalan, Medical Director at Alvi Armani South Africa. “It’s not just about appearance; it’s about identity. Helping patients restore their hair often helps them reconnect with who they were before the illness.”

Each patient’s treatment is personalised, based on their medical history and stage of recovery. Procedures such as follicular unit extraction (FUE) - a minimally invasive method that transplants individual follicles - are often paired with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or exosome therapy to stimulate scalp health and growth.

Safety is paramount. Alvi Armani works closely with each patient’s oncologist and generally waits six to twelve months after chemotherapy or radiation before beginning restoration work.

Dr Kalan emphasises that hair restoration is not about vanity. “When someone looks in the mirror and recognises themselves again, it can be deeply healing. Regaining a sense of control is a vital part of recovery. We don’t just treat the scalp; we support the person. Seeing a survivor smile at new hair growth - that’s what it’s really about.”

Despite proven success internationally, post-cancer hair restoration remains under-discussed in South Africa. Many survivors are unaware that it’s an option or worry it may be unsafe. Through its partnership with CANSA, Alvi Armani aims to change that.

“Internationally, hair restoration after cancer is part of holistic recovery. It deserves the same recognition here. We need to normalise the idea that restoring appearance is a legitimate part of healing,” Dr Kalan concludes.

"At CANSA, we know that recovery is about more than just completing treatment. Supporting survivors’ emotional well-being, including helping them feel confident in their appearance, is a vital part of healing. This partnership with Alvi Armani makes safe, professional hair restoration accessible to those who need it most," says Makoma Raolane, CANSA’s National Sustainability Manager.

With this partnership, Alvi Armani and CANSA want to remind survivors that recovery doesn’t end with treatment – it begins the moment they start feeling like themselves again.

Individuals affected by cancer who are interested in the initiative can contact Alvi Armani South Africa directly - referencing their affiliation with CANSA - to schedule a complimentary consultation.

For more information, visit https://cansa.org.za/ and https://alviarmani.co.za/