Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is terrifying and stressful. Aside from the treatments themselves and the battle, the side effects can also be life-altering.

Chemotherapy is a common treatment for many different types of cancers. While a broad term for a treatment that can be very unique and specific to each person (there are over 100 different types of chemotherapy), one of the major side effects to most chemotherapy treatments is hair loss.

For some, hair loss and changing your look may present a feeling of freedom and a fresh start. For others, dealing with hair loss is like dealing with identity loss. No matter how you are feeling, there are ways to ease the stress and strain. There are a variety of cancer wigs available, from toupees and toppers to full wigs. In fact, the variety of available human hair and synthetic wigs can even make wig shopping a fun experience.

Shopping for and Selecting Cancer Wigs

If you know that you will be undergoing chemotherapy treatments and are preparing to lose your hair, there are a few things you can to help your wig match your current style. Take pictures of your hair cut and color before the treatment. And when you start losing your hair, tie a small group of hair together and save it. Bring these items in to the boutique with you to help your professional stylist find a style, texture and color that most closely matches your signature style. This can make easing into wearing a wig more seamless. Or take this opportunity to play around with different styles, cuts and new colors. Why not have a little fun and create a distraction from your treatments?

Head Size	Wig Size Name
18 inches to 19.5 inches	Child’s or ultra-petite
20 inches to 21 inches	Petite
20.5 inches to 21.5 inches	Average petite
21.5 inches to 22.5 inches	Average
22 inches to 23 inches	Large-average
22.5 inches to 24 inches	Large

Once you’re ready to shop for a wig, your stylist will help you determine your wig size, the hair type and the cap style. You can choose from human hair wigs or synthetic hair wigs. Most people who have undergone chemotherapy treatments will opt for a monofilament wig. These wigs feature soft, breathable cap construction that makes the wig more comfortable to a sensitive scalp.

The final step of the process is to learn how to wear and care for your new wig. The stylists at Wig-A-Do will be happy to show you the steps and point out the wig products that can help you get the most longevity from your wig. We’re also knowledgeable in how to work with insurance companies to help pay for the wig. If you’re preparing for chemotherapy or are already in need of a cancer wig, call us at (856) 235-3534 for your private consultation.