Hair loss from chemotherapy can be a dreadful side effect in treating cancer. Wigs and other hair coverings can help make the ordeal easier.
Hair loss is particularly stressful for many cancer patients because in addition to feeling sick, they feel self-conscious about their appearance. This is natural, and a patient's family, friends, and medical professionals should do everything they can to reassure the patient. Your doctor may also recommend a local support group or other organization that can help.
While some patients choose to leave the head uncovered after chemotherapy, a head covering is useful in preventing the loss of body heat in cooler weather.
Below are some tips for choosing a head covering for use with chemotherapy. Contact your medical insurance carrier to see if your plan will cover wigs or other head coverings. Then choose the option or options that best suit your personality, your style, and your budget. The most important thing is to be as comfortable as possible.
Wigs
If you want to buy a wig (also called a "scalp prosthesis" or a "cranial hair prosthesis") for use during and after chemotherapy, you should try to purchase it before you begin treatment, so that you can choose a wig that best matches your own hair color, texture, and style. This will make the adjustment much easier for you and for those around you.
Or, if you prefer, use this opportunity to try an exciting new look.
Wigs come in a wide price range, from inexpensive wigs made of man-made material to more natural-looking (but pricier) options made from real human hair.
When you shop for a wig, you might want to take a friend or relative with you to help you choose the wig that suits you best.
Scarves
Scarves are a very popular among chemotherapy patients, particularly women. Scarves can be relatively inexpensive, and so you might want to purchase several, to complement different outfits.
Choose large scarves that can be wrapped completely around the head. Head scarves should be made of cotton, linen, or a similarly textured fabric that will stay in place. Avoid slick fabrics, such as silk or polyester, which can slide off the head.
Hats and Turbans
Hats and turbans can be practical and stylish. Some chemotherapy patients are comfortable just wearing a simple baseball cap on casual occasions. A fancier hat or turban can complement your outfit and lend a touch of pizzazz. The possibilities are limited only by the selection at your hat shop.
Mix and Match
Many patients choose more than one head covering option and "mix and match" as the mood suits them. You might want to leave your head uncovered while at home, and then choose a head covering when going out that feels best for the occasion. For example, you might choose a simple cap for a walk around the neighborhood, a scarf for a trip to the supermarket, or a wig for a social event.
Cancer therapy is difficult. But, with a little planning, looking good during your therapy can be easy.
