We are Hair Loss Specialists in the Tampa Bay Area with 3 different locations across Florida.

chemotherapy wigFacing breast cancer is a terrifying prospect that requires strength, courage and determination. While fighting this disease, the last thing anyone wants is to worry about how they look. Sometimes the prospect of losing hair during chemotherapy is nearly as traumatizing as the cancer itself. Wearing a chemotherapy wig or getting a hair replacement helps patients feel better about their appearance while they recover.

Why Hair Loss Occurs

Chemotherapy vigorously destroys cancer cells. However, it also affects the healthy cells responsible for hair growth. According to the Mayo Clinic, hair loss usually begins two to four weeks into treatment and may continue for weeks afterward. Some patients will only experience thinning hair, and others may experience total baldness, depending on the specific drug and dosage received.

This hair loss is usually temporary, and hair can grow again a few weeks after treatment.

Choosing a Chemotherapy Wig

Because a woman’s hair is such an integral part of her appearance and identity, a patient might choose to wear a wig while undergoing chemotherapy. She should get one before her hair starts to fall out. This way, she’ll be better able to match her natural color and style, if that’s the look she desires.

This is also a good time to experiment with different cuts, colors and textures. Has she always wanted a platinum blond bob or long, bouncy curls? She can use this opportunity to buy a wig that tests out a new look without the commitment of dyes and treatments that can hurt natural hair.

A patient’s best choice is to visit a hair restoration studio and consult a professional who can help them find the perfect wig for their budget and needs.

Patients should check with their insurance company as some providers will cover part or all of the cost of a chemotherapy wig.

At Custom Hair Tampa Bay, we use high-quality medical wigs, which can alleviate the added stress of patients worrying about their appearance due to hair loss. To schedule a free consultation at one of our three locations click here.

 

 

Photo Credit: milivanily Via Pixabay

 

Sources:

Information and Resources about Cancer: Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, Skin. Accessed October 10, 2017. http://www.cancer.org/.

Friends Are By Your Side. Accessed October 10, 2017.

http://www.friendsarebyyourside.com/.

“Chemo Wigs: How to buy them.” The Silver Pen. November 04, 2013. Accessed October 09, 2017. http://www.thesilverpen.com/breast-cancer-information-facts/breast-cancer-chemotherapy-treatment/chemo-wigs-how-to-buy-them-during-chemotherapy/.

“Chemotherapy and hair loss: What to expect during treatment.” Mayo Clinic. April 05, 2016. Accessed October 09, 2017. http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chemotherapy/in-depth/hair-loss/art-20046920.

Stephan, Pam. “How to Choose a Cancer Wig Before Chemotherapy.” VeryWell. June 01, 2017. Accessed October 09, 2017. https://www.verywell.com/how-to-choose-a-wig-before-chemotherapy-430694.

“Wigs.” Breastcancer.org. February 17, 2017. Accessed October 09, 2017. http://www.breastcancer.org/tips/hair_skin_nails/wigs.

“Wigs – A Complete Guide.” Wigs – A Complete Guide. Accessed October 09, 2017. http://cancerhaircare.com/page/wigs-a-complete-guide/67.