Wigs for Chemotherapy

Wigs for Chemotherapy Patients: A Guide to Choosing and Caring for Your Wig

If you are undergoing chemotherapy, you may experience hair loss as a side effect of the treatment. This can be a difficult and emotional experience, but there are ways to cope with it and feel more confident. One of the options you have is to wear a wig, which can help you maintain your appearance and self-esteem. However, choosing and caring for a wig can be overwhelming, especially if you have never worn one before. In this blog post, we will provide some tips and information to help you find the best wig for you.

Types of wigs

There are two main types of wigs: natural and synthetic. Natural wigs are made from human hair, while synthetic wigs are made from artificial fibers. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and budget.

Natural wigs:

• Pros: They look and feel more realistic, they can be styled with heat tools, they last longer, and they are more breathable.
• Cons: They are more expensive, they require more maintenance, they can fade or change color over time, and they can be affected by humidity and weather.

Synthetic wigs:

• Pros: They are cheaper, they come in a variety of styles and colors, they are easier to care for, they retain their shape and volume, and they are more resistant to environmental factors.
• Cons: They look and feel less natural, they cannot be styled with heat tools, they wear out faster, and they can be less comfortable.

How to choose a wig

When choosing a wig, there are several factors to consider, such as:

• Size: You want to make sure that your wig fits your head snugly but comfortably. You can measure your head circumference and compare it to the size chart of the wig manufacturer. You can also adjust the size of the wig using straps or hooks inside the cap.
• Style: You may want to choose a wig that matches your natural hair style, color, and length. Or you may want to try something different and experiment with new looks. You can also choose a wig that has bangs, layers, curls, or waves. You can also cut or trim your wig to suit your face shape and preferences.
• Cap type: The cap is the part of the wig that covers your head and holds the hair. There are different types of caps, such as:
  • Standard cap: This is the most common and affordable type of cap. It has rows of hair sewn onto a thin fabric base. It may have some open wefts or spaces for ventilation.
  • Monofilament cap: This type of cap has a thin mesh base where each hair is individually hand-tied. This creates a more natural look and allows you to part the hair in any direction.
  • Lace front cap: This type of cap has a thin lace strip along the front hairline where each hair is individually hand-tied. This creates a more realistic look and allows you to style the hair away from your face.
  • Hand-tied cap: This type of cap has a soft fabric base where each hair is individually hand-tied all over. This creates the most natural look and movement and offers the most comfort and breathability.

Where to buy a wig

There are different places where you can buy a wig, such as:

• Online: You can browse through various websites that sell wigs online. You can compare prices, styles, colors, reviews, and customer service. However, you may not be able to try on the wig before buying it or return it if you are not satisfied.
• Specialty stores: You can visit a store that specializes in selling wigs for cancer patients. You can get professional advice from experts who understand your needs and preferences. You can also try on different wigs and see how they look on you.
• Salons: You can go to a salon that offers wig services. You can get a consultation from a stylist who can help you choose the best wig for you. You can also get your wig cut, styled, or customized to fit your head and face.

Wig care

Once you have your wig, you need to take good care of it to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for your wig:

• Wash your wig regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for wigs. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a towel.
• Avoid using heat tools such as blow dryers, curling irons, or flat irons on your wig. If you have a natural wig, use low heat settings and protect your hair with heat protectant spray.
• Brush your wig gently with a wide-tooth comb or a soft bristle brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid tangling or pulling out the hair.
• Store your wig on a wig stand or a mannequin head when not in use. This will help maintain its shape and prevent it from getting dusty or tangled.
• Protect your wig from direct sunlight, heat, moisture, and chemicals. Avoid wearing your wig in the rain, swimming pool, sauna, or near open flames.

Other head covering options

If you don’t want to wear a wig, you have other options to cover your head, such as:

• Scarves: You can wrap a scarf around your head in various ways to create different looks. You can choose from different fabrics, colors, patterns, and sizes. You can also accessorize your scarf with pins, clips, or flowers.
• Hats: You can wear a hat to cover your head and keep it warm. You can choose from different styles, such as beanies, berets, fedoras, or baseball caps. You can also add some hair pieces or bangs to your hat for a more natural look.
• Turbans: You can wear a turban to cover your head and create a stylish and elegant look. You can choose from different fabrics, colors, and designs. You can also embellish your turban with jewels, beads, or brooches.
• Bandanas: You can wear a bandana to cover your head and add some flair to your outfit. You can choose from different fabrics, colors, and prints. You can also tie your bandana in different ways to create different looks.

Conclusion

Wearing a wig during chemotherapy can help you cope with hair loss and boost your confidence. However, choosing and caring for a wig can be challenging. We hope that this guide has given you some useful information and tips to help you find the best wig for you. Remember that whatever you decide to do with your hair, you are beautiful and strong!