Cancer patients and their families have to deal with many things during cancer treatment. One of those things is hair loss. In general, it occurs in the first few weeks of the chemo treatment, and may last a few months later. This article's goal is to explain what are wigs for cancer patients and how to choose the right one for you.
Cancer wigs benefits
Cancer wigs are one of the best gifts you can give to a cancer patient because they offer the following benefits:
- They help them to look good and to feel better.
- Wigs for cancer patients allow them to enjoy various hairstyles.
- They boost their confidence.
Tips on how to choose your wigs for cancer patients
Tip 1: color
People with warm color skin (tan to golden), eyes (brown, green, green-blue, turquoise, and hazel), hair ( red, brown), may choose among these colors of wigs for cancer patients:
- Dark browns
- Chestnuts
- Rich auburns
- Golden browns
Note: If unsure, choose a wig color that is darker than your skin color.
People with fair skin and blue or green eyes may choose colors such as:
- Black
- Brown
- Blonde
Note: Avoid gold, yellow, auburn, and bronze cancer wigs.
Tip 2: how to measure your wig to find the right cancer wig size
To accurately measure your cancer wig, you need to know the following measurements:
Head circumference:
Using a measuring tape, begin from the front hairline then move towards the hairline just above the ear, up to the nape of the neck, going above the other ear, and back to the point where you started.
Distance between the ears
Just the same, begin from the top of one of your ears where your hairline ends. Go over the crown of your head until it goes to the same point on the other ear.
Distance between the front and back of the head
Lastly, from the front of your natural hairline go over to the crown of your head exactly where your head meets the top of the neck.
Find your Wig size
Locate the wig brand's sizing chart, then use the measurements above to see if you fit within an average wig size, or you have to wear a petite or large wig. Most female head sizes are average in size..
Tip 3: synthetic wigs vs human hair wigs for cancer patients
Synthetic wigs for cancer patients are cheaper in cost compared to human hair wigs. However, you may find it not having the same shine and texture you'll feel with wigs made from human hair. Learn more about the difference of these types of wigs by reading our blog: Human hair wigs vs synthetic hair wigs.
Tip 4: ready to wear vs custom-made cancer wigs
Custom-made cancer wigs are made especially for you, with your own measurements to fit perfectly your head. These are more secure and ensures a comfortable fit. However, it is more expensive and may take some time before it can be delivered to you. On the other hand, ready to wear wigs may be ordered immediately and delivered more quickly to you.
Tip 5: finding the right style for you
Experts have different opinions with this element. However, most of them suggest sticking to the patient's current hairstyle. A sudden change in the hairstyle can make the look of the wig less natural.
Wearing wigs for cancer patients with a hairstyle that resumes your usual style helps you make a smoother transition in front of the mirror and other people.