SCALP COOLING EXPLAINED
THE SIMPLE SCIENCE
Scalp cooling, also known as cold cap therapy, offers a minimally invasive and drug-free way to preserve hair during chemotherapy. This safe and well-tolerated technology uses a specially designed cap to cool the scalp for a specific time before, during, and after each chemotherapy session. The cooling process works by protecting hair follicles from the damaging effects of chemotherapy drugs in several ways:
Reduced blood flow: The cold constricts blood vessels, limiting the amount of chemotherapy drugs reaching the scalp.
Slower cell activity: The cooling temperature also slows down the metabolic activity of hair follicle cells.
Reduced drug uptake: This combined effect reduces the amount of chemotherapy drugs absorbed by the hair follicles.
Slower cell division: The cooler temperature also slows down the rate of cell division, making hair follicles less susceptible to the harmful effects of chemotherapy.
These mechanisms of scalp cooling effectively reduce the cytotoxicity of chemotherapy drugs, allowing individuals to retain a significant portion of their hair.
TWO SCALP COOLING SYSTEMS EXIST:
MACHINE & MANUAL
MACHINE-BASED SYSTEMS:
These are FDA-cleared options like Dignicap® and Paxman. They are typically only available at hospitals and clinics that have leased the equipment.
MANUAL COLD CAP SYSTEMS:
This method involves using a set of caps that patients freeze and rotate throughout treatment to maintain the desired temperature. While manual systems require access to dry ice, some treatment centers provide dedicated biomedical freezers.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
The Polar Shift founders used manual systems with phenomenal results, however, our organization supports all evidence-based scalp cooling technologies. Many individuals have successfully used both machine and manual methods.
Understanding Scalp Cooling CostS
FACTORS & APPROXIMATIONs
The cost of scalp cooling therapy can vary depending on several factors, including:
Provider: Each scalp cooling and cold cap provider offers different pricing structures.
System type: Manual systems typically cost less upfront than machine-based systems.
Professional services: Optional services like personalized training or professional cap application can add to the cost.
Treatment duration: Longer treatment periods generally cost more.
COST BREAKDOWN
MACHINE-BASED SYSTEMS:
4-5 month estimate
Cost Range: $1,500 - $2,400
MANUAL COLD CAP SYSTEMS:
4-5 month estimate
Cost range: $1,400 - $1,950
Additional considerations:
Personalized Training and Professional Cappers: Optional—but highly recommended! Additional costs for these elected services range from $200 - $400 per session, depending on the provider and chosen service level. Some offer virtual and in-person training, while others offer complete “white glove” service throughout your treatment. Travel expenses may apply.
Dry Ice: Most companies offer discounts, with dry ice typically costing $1.00 - $3.00 dollars per pound. Each treatment requires approximately 50 pounds, bringing the estimated cost without a discount to $50.00 per treatment.
Financial Assistance: Some non-profit organizations, like HairToStay (info@HairToStay.org) and Keep Your Hair (keepyourhair.org) offer subsidies or caps and supplies at no cost to eligible patients.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER:
Many cold capping companies offer flexible payment options and monthly “rentals.”
Research is key: Explore different options and talk directly to providers to discuss your needs and treatment plan.
Consult your doctor: Discuss scalp cooling with your healthcare professional and request personalized guidance and support.
Success rates and insurance: Ask scalp cooling providers about success rates for your specific drug regimen and inquire about insurance coverage possibilities. You can also check with your insurance company directly about any financial assistance programs they may offer.
Financial assistance: As previously mentioned, many non-profit organizations offer need-based financial help.
These figures are only an approximation. Prices may vary, so we encourage you to contact scalp cooling providers directly for the most accurate quote based on your specific needs.
The Polar Shift is committed to making scalp cooling more affordable and accessible for all. We will get there!
Scalp cooling resources
SCALP COOLING COMPANIES
MACHINE SYSTEMS:
Two machine systems, DigniCap® and Paxman, have been cleared by the FDA. These systems are leased by hospitals and clinics and are only available where installed:
The DigniCap® system was cleared by the FDA in December 2015. This Swedish-based company has been installing systems in the U.S. since 2016. In July of 2017, they received expanded FDA clearance - their system is now approved to treat both men and women with various solid tumor cancers (not just breast cancer). DigniCap has information on their website regarding medical insurance coverage for the use of their system.
The Paxman Scalp Cooling System was cleared by the FDA in April of 2017 and received their expanded FDA clearance in June of 2018. Paxman, based in the UK, is now installing their system at numerous U.S. locations. Paxman offers https://coldcap.com, a patient-centric website which can help patients decide if this process is right for them, and which also offers support to patients along the journey, from treatment to hair care and more.
MANUAL SYSTEMS:
Several companies offer scalp cooling caps, each with its unique features and reported success rates. However, it's important to consult your doctor and request data from these companies specific to your drug regimen for the most reliable information. Here's a brief overview of some popular manual cap providers:
Penguin Cold Caps: With over 25 years of experience, Penguin boasts a unique design and patented gel for extended temperature control. Their success rates are reportedly high with almost all chemo drugs, even with challenging chemo regimens like AC, which is usually toughest on the hair. In addition to very high success rates with taxanes like TC, they report their success rate may be as high as 60–80% with patients using AC. They provide caps, cooler and all needed supplies for each rental. Please inquire for details.
Arctic Cold Caps: Inspired by a family member's success, Arctic Cold Caps utilize Elastogel and provide a comprehensive rental package with individual training. They report excellent outcomes with a range of drugs. Please inquire for details.
Chemo Cold Caps: Founded on personal experience, CCC offers a snug-fitting Elastogel cap. They provide caps, cooler and all needed supplies for each rental. CCC data indicates a very high success rate with the taxanes. Inquire regarding other drugs.
Wishcaps: Began after the founder assisted a close friend who saved her hair with manual cold caps. Another Elastogel cap provider, Wishcaps offers renters all necessary equipment and phone consultations. They report excellent results with the taxanes. Inquire regarding other drugs.
Warrior Caps: Founded by a survivor who preserved her hair through multiple rounds of chemo, Warrior Caps utilize a proprietary cap and provide a comprehensive support package. Warrior Caps have been used with high levels of success reported with even the toughest chemo regimens, including AC. Please inquire for details.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
Manual cold caps are not yet FDA-cleared and are not stocked at hospitals/clinics. Patients must rent them privately and bring with them to each chemotherapy infusion. While scalp-cooling machines are becoming more available, manual caps are still commonly used with excellent results by American patients wishing to save their hair. A set of manual cold caps can be used at any location with the dry ice method. Until 2016, only manual caps were available to American patients.
PROFESSIONAL CAPPING SERVICES
While manual capping can be done with help from friends or family, many patients choose professional services for additional support. Here’s a brief overview of some reputable capping services:
Capping Partners of America: Offers virtual/in-person training, certified cappers (NC, SC, VA, GA, FL, Chicago, with expansion ongoing), and works only with Penguin Caps.
Right Arm Inc: Provides training and capping services, works with Penguin Caps, and serves the NYC tri-state area (may travel).
Penguin Cold Caps Professional White Glove Services: Offers in-home/hospital capping training or full service, serves Northern CA, OR, UT, MT, Reno/Northern NV (may travel).
Armored Hope Cold Cap Therapy: Offers virtual or in-home training and serves clients in Central Illinois (works only with Penguin Caps).
BENEFITS:
Training from an experienced, certified capping specialist.
Hiring a certified capping specialist to assist with each treatment.
Helpful for those lacking a full-time helper or seeking additional expertise.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Additional expense.
Availability may vary by location.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
Costs and availability of professional services may vary.
Capping service companies may not operate in all locations.
Professional capping services are expanding their reach, but availability may vary depending on your location.
The Polar Shift is working to encourage the growth and expansion of these services to ensure wider accessibility.
Scalp Cooling Financial Assistance
MEDICARE & PRIVATE INSURANCE:
As of January 1, 2022, some Medicare plans are covering scalp cooling and paying a one-time benefit of $1850. Medicare code being used is 0662T. Private insurance companies are starting to cover some scalp cooling treatment cost. The Rapunzel Project has a list of suggested CPT codes.
NATIONAL NONPROFITS:
Hair To Stay: Subsidies for patients at or below 300% FPL.
The Sue Paxman Fund for Mothers: Free Paxman caps for 2 low-income mothers per month (apply through Hair To Stay).
The Fleener Family Foundation: (Warrior Caps): Assistance for those at or below 300% FPL (info@fleenerfamilyfoundation.org).
Sharsheret: (Breast & Ovarian Cancer): Up to $1,750 for patients at or below 600% FPL.
REGIONAL PROGRAMS:
Cold Capital Fund: Provides financial assistance to DC, Maryland, and Virginia chemotherapy patients.
Cap and Conquer: Raises funds for patients in SE Michigan.
Infinite Strength: Helps single mothers with metastatic breast cancer with children under 18, residing in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT, DE, MD, NJ, NY, PA.
Keep Your Hair: Provides cold caps at no charge to patients during treatment, in Jackson, MS.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
Hospitals and Clinics: Some may offer additional financial support, inquire with your healthcare provider.
Approval and reimbursement details vary by program.
Some programs have residency or eligibility restrictions.
HOW TO GET STARTEd
HERE’S A GUIDE FROM OUR FOUNDERS TO HELP SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
Scalp cooling must begin with your very FIRST chemotherapy treatment!
Discuss Scalp Cooling with your doctor: Before starting, talk to your physician or oncology team to understand if scalp cooling is right for you.
Research Scalp Cooling Companies: Review our Resource Section to explore popular scalp cooling solutions.
Consider Professional Assistance: We highly recommend hiring a professional capping service for training and support. You can either:
Train a friend or loved one: Find qualified services on our Resource Page to train a caregiver in proper capping techniques.
Hire a professional capping specialist: Our Resource Section also lists reputable services for in-person assistance throughout your treatment.
Stay Positive and Informed: Read success stories, stay optimistic, and remember: You are stronger than you know! Visit our FAQ page for more information and feel free to contact us with any questions. info@thepolarshift.com