Hair loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment and many cancer patients decide to wear a wig until their real hair grows back.

Deciding on the best wig to go for can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be. A few tips will be

• A wig that looks natural 
• A wig that is comfortable and easy to wear 
• One that fits your budget

WHAT TYPE OF HAIR IS A WIG MADE FROM?

Wigs can be made from synthetic fibres also known as chemical fibres which are often called synthetic wigs or real human hair wigs. Synthetic wigs are cheaper, heavy in weight and often times cant be custom made. Human hair wigs on the other hand are more expensive but made from real human hair and can last for over a year or more if maintained properly.

HOW ARE WIGS MADE?

Wigs can be machine made or handmade.

HOW DO I ATTACH A WIG AS A CANCER PATIENT

Finding the right wig is usually the first step. Whats the best way to attach a wig as a cancer patient? A lot of people who wear wigs fear it may be uncomfortable or it might fall off.The foundation to which the wig is made should fee comfortable and should feel like a second scalp.

When hair falls out, the scalp may feel tender or sensitive. Some wigs can be irritating to the scalp. It is often helpful to place a small cotton scarf or cotton skullcap between the scalp and the wig. Not only does the scarf or cap provide a protective barrier, but it also absorbs some of the perspiration that develops on the scalp.

Wigs generally have straps and combs inserted and the combs can feel uncomfortable. If you are ordering from our store, you can put a request in to have the combs removed and we can accommodate this.

WASHING DIRECTIONS FOR YOUR WIGS

Generally, a wig should be washed after 14-18 wearings. If you’re especially active, you should wash your wig at least once a week to remove the perspiration and dirt.

When it is time to wash your wig, brush it to remove all teasing, tangles, and hair spray. We recommend that you use a gentle cleansing, wig, scalp and hair shampoo, and conditioner as it leaves your wig soft, pretty, and easy to manage.

Gently swirl your wig in a mixture of cold water and a small amount of shampoo. Let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse it in cold water. You can wrap the wig in a towel to remove excess water, but DO NOT wring it out or brush it while it is wet. Drape your wig over a slender bottle or a wig stand, and let it dry overnight. When your wig is completely dry, give it a quick shake and brush it back into style

If you have a hair stylist, you may talk with them about the care of your wig. Your hair stylist may have experience working with wigs and can also give you tips about the care of your wig.

Wig care dos

• Use water-soluble hair spray. Lacquer sprays will coat the wig and create a white-colored build-up.
• Use a plastic, wire, or natural bristle brush. Light, short strokes give the best styling results. Heavy brushing tends to “pack” the fiber instead of creating the “airy” look that fibre is meant to have.

Wig care don’ts

• Do not use standard hairbrushes because they can create excessive tension, over stretching the hair and damaging it.
• Do not brush wig while your wig is wet.
• Do not wear your wig while cooking or near open oven or gas stove, as your wig could catch on fire. Extreme heat will cause the wig to frizz. You might consider wearing a turban while cooking to avoid singeing your wig.
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