Q. What’s the best hair care for after chemotherapy? Kay Gray; Victoria, TX

A. In my limited experience with chemotherapy, I’ve found in all cases the hair was not the same color or texture as it was prior to treatment. That said, your stylist should address your hair care needs as it pertains to your hair now. If it’s straighter or curlier than it was before, have the hair cut and styled based on its new texture and have your stylist recommend and demonstrate the appropriate products to achieve the look you want. Adjusting your color or texture with hair dyes, perms or chemical straighteners should be fine as long as your hair and scalp are healthy.

In order to get the most reliable info, we also asked New York City dermatologist Francesca Fusco, M.D., for her take on the situation. Here’s what she says: It usually takes about two to four months for hair to grow back after chemotherapy. Initially, it may be different in color or texture , but it will generally return to its original state. It often starts growing back baby fine, so it’s important to be gentle with it. If the hair initially grows in gray/white, beware of chemical hair dyes. Some contain peroxide that can damage delicate hair. Many also contain tiny but potentially harmful petrochemicals, like coal tar, that are also damaging, especially to fine hair. If possible, wait the doctor-recommended six months post-treatment before coloring hair. If not, look for natural, non-peroxide laced products until the hair returns to normal. The same advice applies to chemical straighteners and perms.

Each week we dedicate space to answering YOUR burning hair questions. Need some advice? Confused about a service or style? From cuts and color to tools and techniques, our experts are available to weigh in on all things hair-related. To submit a Q, send it here: questions@thehairbookonline.com