When you’re taking exemestane, a type of aromatase inhibitor used to treat hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Also known as Aromasin, it works by blocking estrogen production, which helps slow cancer growth. But for many women, this same mechanism leads to an unexpected side effect: hair loss. It’s not the thick, dramatic shedding you might see after chemotherapy. It’s more like thinning—especially along the part line or at the temples. You might notice more hair on your brush, your pillow, or in the shower drain. It’s subtle, but it’s real.
Exemestane belongs to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, medications that stop the body from turning androgens into estrogen. Other drugs in this group include letrozole and anastrozole. All of them can cause hair changes, but exemestane’s effect is often reported as milder than chemo-induced loss. Still, for someone who’s already dealing with cancer treatment, even small changes in appearance can be emotionally heavy. Hair loss from these drugs isn’t permanent for most people, but it can last months or even years after stopping treatment. The good news? It’s not the same as alopecia areata or genetic thinning. This is hormonal—your body’s estrogen levels drop, and hair follicles respond by slowing growth.
Not everyone experiences this. Studies suggest about 10-20% of women on aromatase inhibitors report noticeable hair thinning. Factors like age, genetics, and how long you’ve been on the drug play a role. Women who already had thinning hair before starting treatment are more likely to notice it get worse. And while there’s no FDA-approved fix, some women find relief with gentle scalp care, biotin supplements, or low-level laser therapy. What doesn’t help? Harsh shampoos, tight hairstyles, or trying to "force" regrowth with unproven products. The key is patience and managing expectations.
What you’ll find below are real stories and science-backed insights from people who’ve walked this path. You’ll see how others managed hair changes while staying on life-saving treatment. There are posts about hormonal hair loss, how estrogen suppression affects hair cycles in women over 50, comparisons between different aromatase inhibitors, and practical tips for minimizing the impact without quitting your meds. You’ll also find advice on when to talk to your doctor—because sometimes, switching drugs or adding a supportive treatment can make a real difference.
This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about understanding what’s happening inside your body and how to take back control—even when the change feels out of your hands. The posts here aren’t just about hair. They’re about dignity, self-image, and finding ways to feel like yourself while fighting cancer.
Exemestane can cause gradual hair thinning in up to 30% of users. Learn the science behind it, what actually helps, and how to cope emotionally without compromising your treatment.
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