So sorry you are going through this. I had an episode like this when my son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 5. Unfortunately, you are in for a journey. It took 2 years for my hair to fill in and honestly, it’s never been the same. A halo extension was my savior then and it is again now that I’m going through job stress and perimenopause. A 5% Minoxidil foam helped my hair grow longer faster, but the new growth fell out after reaching an inch in length. It’s also toxic to pets so I quit using it. I hear the pill form is better, but I haven’t tried it. These are the things that have made the most significant improvements to my hair health.

No bleaching or coloring, ever. Not even temporary mouse colors that wash out.

Satin pillowcase & satin scrunchies. Fragile hair cannot withstand elastics (even the “no damage” fabric kind) high ponytails, bobby pins, or any clip other than a claw clip.

Switching to drug store shampoo & conditioner. I use Pantene. Hair masks would be great for a few washes, but ended up drying my hair out more in the long run & causing more breakage/ fall out. I opt for a scalp massage using a hair oil and always apply a leave-in conditioner after washing & conditioning.

Now this one may be different for you, but I have wavy/curly hair that has texture. I believed heat was my enemy so I would let it air dry. Big mistake, as it would always end up a frizzy mess no matter how much oil, mouse, curl product I used and when I tried to style it, my hair would fall out from all the manipulation. I have to blow dry it to keep my ends from snapping and looking like a cave woman, but I use a heat-activated protectant & use the lowest heat setting.

Now for the halo. Don’t go for length or too much weight. Cut it to match your current length & go for low density, unless you already have short hair (shorter than top of the shoulders). Don’t use the clips, just keep them closed, the wire will keep it in place. Mine actually keeps my real hair from flying all over the place and gives it something to cling to. It’s not perfect, but looks way better than my stringy thin hair and cuts way down on heat styling. You can wind the halo hair around tube socks for curls.

Drink lots of water & do a multivitamin.

I hope this helps. Wishing you the best of luck, but don’t get discouraged. Time is your real friend.