How to Feel Beautiful with Chemotherapy Headwear
If you are undergoing or are about to undergo chemotherapy, you might be wondering how you are going to feel beautiful after treatment since many kinds of chemo cause hair loss. There are many kinds of headwear available for people going through cancer treatments. With a variety of different head coverings you can change your look as often as you like and feel beautiful while your treatment continues. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Look for a wig and have it fitted before your treatment begins. You can look for a wig that is close to your natural hair color or opt for something different. If you want a wig that looks like your natural hair, take your wig to your hairdresser and have it styled like your natural hair. Your skin tone may change after your treatment, so look for a wig that is a shade or two lighter than your natural hair color -- low contrast between your hair and skin tone will make your skin look brighter. Make sure the wig you choose has a comfortable lining. Many wigs are intended to be worn over hair, so make sure yours can be worn against your skin without irritating it. You can opt for a natural or synthetic wig. Natural wigs are more expensive and require more upkeep -- for instance, they should be styled by a hairdresser. Synthetic wigs are less expensive and you can wash and style them at home.
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Look for hats that will keep you warm without irritating your scalp. You may feel cold during and after chemo, so you will need hats that are warm. Look for soft fleece, cotton or knit caps that fit well on your scalp and are comfortable. Many people undergoing treatment wear hats at home and wigs when they leave the house, so make sure your hats are comfortable enough to wear all day long. Hats with built-in hairpieces like bangs are also available, providing the look of hair and the comfort of a hat.
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Wear a turban or headscarf for a totally different look. Scarves and turbans can add a whole new sense of fashion to your wardrobe and well being. They comes in many different styles, patterns and materials for superior flexibility. Look for fabrics that are soft and not slippery -- stay away from synthetics like polyester as they will slide off your head. Try cotton scarves and turbans instead. Scarves and turbans are versatile and can be wrapped and tied in many different ways so you can change your look every day.
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Tips & Warnings
Your health insurance provider may cover part or all of the cost of a wig. Ask your doctor to write you a prescription for the wig.
If you cannot afford a wig, ask your health care facility if there is a wig bank in your area. The American Cancer Society also runs wig banks nationwide which provide wigs free of charge to people undergoing chemotherapy.
Cut your hair short before your treatment begins to make the transition easier. You may opt to shave your head -- use clippers if you do this, not a razor.
If you have young children, include them in your haircut. Take them with you to the hairdresser and get haircuts for everybody -- this demystifies your short hair and makes the change less frightening.
Try a wig that is unlike your own hair as well as one that looks natural. If there's a cut, color or style you've always wanted to try, go ahead. Put it on when you go out for an added boost.
If you find your wig slips on your scalp, look for adhesive pads that will keep it in place.
Do not style a synthetic wig with heated styling tools such as blow dryers or curling irons as it will melt. If you want a style you can't achieve at home, take your wig to your hairdresser.
Always wear sunscreen on your scalp. The skin on your head has probably never been exposed to the sun and it is vital you protect your skin from any damage.
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