You've accepted your cancer diagnosis, informed family and friends, and are preparing to undergo chemotherapy treatment. You've read online that hair loss is extremely common and have researched different ways that women cope with hair loss. After thinking, reading, and talking to a few friends, you've decided it is better to be prepared before the event of hair loss and that a wig may be a good option for you. Notice I said may be a good option. If you're not entirely sure whether a wig is right for you, but you want to learn more before you decide. That's completely normal. Below are a few ways that women can begin the conversation about whether a wig or hair prosthesis is the best choice for them.
Prepare for a change: Buying a wig is not as easy as just going out and buying a wig. There is a big emotional piece that is useful to address before you make this step. Hair loss is called a loss for a reason. Women undergoing cancer treatment may feel a particular sense of loss that is unique and important to consider. Before purchasing a wig, you may consider preparing yourself emotionally for the decision. The National Cancer Institute (USA) describes the very normal feelings that many people feel after learning they have cancer, which include: denial, anger, fear, stress, anxiety, depression, sadness, guilt, and loneliness. These feelings may spill over when you're trying to decide the best way to cope with the symptom of hair loss during treatment. Try to find an online or in-person support group that fits who you are and where you are in the process. Talk to people about your concerns and seek support when you need it. Explore your own reactions with friends and family by sharing this important decision with them.
Research possible options: Make sure to do all of the necessary research so you find a wig (or two!) that is perfect for you. Have a supportive friend or family member accompany them to visit the hair loss centre of your choice. There are many different types of wigs and hair prostheses, but most fall into two categories: synthetic or human hair wigs. Both have their pros and cons and it's important to learn about the differences before making a final selection, at Transitions we will guide you through this process. Buying a wig online may seem like a good idea in the moment since it saves you from the potential embarrassment of having to go out in public. However, you will run the risk of how it may fit on your head and it will need trimming and styling to suit your unique facial feature so that you wig becomes 'you.' We have in-house wig experts and master wig stylists who can style the wig exactly how you want. Most often people wish to look the same, sometimes people want to use this as an opportunity to try something quite different. The choice is yours to make!
Consider Timing: It is best to get a wig early, rather than later. It's nice to be able to get used to having and wearing the wig before the event of hair loss. It will help you get psychologically prepared. Also, not all wigs are always readily available in the colour or size that you need. Allow about two weeks for the hair studio to order in what you need, just in case.
Consider your finances: Before purchasing a wig, check with your health insurance company to see if it is covered. Most insurance companies cover chemotherapy-required wigs, so don't spend a lot of time worrying before you call! Insurance companies may need a prescription for the wig, which your doctor can provide. Pam Stephan, medical writer for About.com, recommends saving your doctor's prescription, sales receipt for wig, completed insurance form, and any correspondence between you and the insurance company.
Be comfortable: Your wig will last with you throughout your treatment and the time it takes your hair to regrow. In total, this can be around 9 months, even up to a year. So it's important that you feel comfortable in your 'new hair'. Sometimes spending a little more on a better quality wig is well worth the investment. It will make you feel much more confident and relaxed. You will look better and feel better, allowing yourself to be 'you'.
Deciding to purchase a wig is a big decision that is completely and totally up to you. If you're still in the deciding process, allow yourself to be there for as long as you need to be in order to feel comfortable.
If you wish to talk through this process with someone or come in for a free hair consultation, call us: 1300 427 778
