Susan comes from a family with three generations of breast cancer survivors, and went through a double mastectomy because she carries the cancer gene. A victim of a disease called “Alopecia Universalis,” she lost all her hair years ago, and has experienced first-hand the difficulty of dealing with the “stares and hurtful comments” she received.

“After my initial period of adjustment,” she says, “I began to explore the options for women who experience medical hair loss.” Susan went on to design the unique “BeauBeau” scarf and establish her own business. 4women.com now helps women and young girls to cope with the emotional upheaval of medical hair loss by providing appearance solutions and by advocating for greater awareness of the issue.

Just how much can losing her hair affect a woman’s outlook? Studies have shown that feelings range from depression to embarrassment to a complete loss of self, with some of these effects lasting even after the hair grows back. I know that personally, my hair is part of who I am, and that it helps me feel confident and feminine. When I lost my hair during cancer treatments, it was extremely difficult for me, and to this day I baby it and care for it to be sure it sticks around!

Susan’s research appeared in the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing (Volume 15, Number 3), which details the difficulties facing patients who have to cope with hair loss. More specifically, the article talks about the fear surrounding upcoming hair loss, and how that can be even worse than the actual hair loss itself. Learning coping techniques before the changes occur in one’s appearance—called “anticipatory coping”—can go a long way in helping a woman to take control of her life and her survival.

“Anticipatory coping,” the authors state, “defined as the process of anticipation and preparation for an altered appearance…may play a key role in helping women to not just cope, but to rise above the assault to their self-image and self-esteem posed by sudden hair loss.”

The article goes on to detail the results of Susan’s online survey of over 1,300 women who were cancer survivors, were currently going through cancer treatments, or who had just been diagnosed. Susan wanted to find out how these women coped, and what they found to be helpful. Over three hundred women responded, and what they revealed was that having a sense of control over their changing appearance was extremely important.

“We survive by not just feeling in control, but by actually being in control,” one respondent wrote. “There are many choices out there, every woman needs access to and to know all their choices so they can choose for themselves.”

“During this period of uncertainty and fear, being able to grasp even the smallest sense of control is very empowering,” another added.

Susan also discovered that many cancer survivors were not getting the support they needed from their nurses, doctors, or cancer centers. “My surgeon knew no resources and yelled at me for bothering him…” one respondent wrote. Others said their healthcare professionals did help provide additional assistance, but that there still seemed to be a “disconnect” between “those treating the disease and those focused on healing the patient.”

What I gather from my experience and from Susan’s research is this—we must take control of our own cancer journeys. We just can’t expect the doctors, nurses, or even our stylists to do it for us. One of the best questions that Susan asked in her survey was how respondents would advise other women to take control of their appearance changes. Here are some tips from them, along with a few from me.

• Get a short haircut before you start chemo.
• Shave your head (or make an appointment to have it done) once you start losing your hair. (It’s much easier than picking up clumps off your pillow every morning—trust me! Plus this way, you decide when it happens.)
• Take care of your scalp. You’ll find it’s probably very sensitive once the hair is gone. I give you several tips for scalp care here.
• Take time to find your own post-hair-loss style. I recommend you get a wig before you lose your hair, so you can most closely match style and color, but you may also want to consider scarves (like Susan’s beaubeau), hats, and even going bald, if you feel like it.
• Never feel badly about your emotions surrounding hair loss. Many women feel just like you do. Accept your feelings and do what you need to do to help yourself feel more confident, feminine, and in control of your life. No excuses, no apologies!

Have you experienced hair loss as a result of cancer treatments? Please share your tips for coping.

“If your wig is just being stored,” says StarWish 624, “send it on to continue its good work. It feels good to help other BC [breast cancer] sisters.”

“Today, I shampooed, conditioned, and combed my old wig,” says survivor Jacki. “It sits drying on my bathroom counter. When it’s all done and pretty, I’ll mail it off to my friend Carmen, who just the other day had her first chemotherapy for breast cancer.”

If you have a wig just sitting around, you have a lot of options. First, if you know someone who may need it, you can send it directly to them. Some of the message boards on cancer communication sites (like cancer compass) have places where you can advertise your old wig for cancer fighters who would like a wig, but can’t afford a new one.

If you don’t make a direct connection with someone, there are several other options. Here are just a few. Whatever you do, don’t just let that head of hair sit and gather dust!

• Local cancer centers often donate wigs to cancer patients. Call any in your area and ask them where you can donate. “My name is Sheila and I work for a Cancer Center,” says one caregiver. “One of our biggest problems is finding wigs for our ladies. When they become ill, it’s both financially and emotionally draining. If you still have a wig…let me know.”
• Oncology offices like cancer centers, will often take used wigs. Call your local oncology centers.
• Cancer support groups often know where you can take used wigs. If you took part in a support group during your treatment, contact them for information on where you may donate your wig.
• Wig shops often make a habit of donating wigs to cancer patients. Yours could become one of those passed on to someone who needs one. Beautiful Naturally Wigs and Hair Pieces is one such shop that takes donations of gently used wigs. Or try WigShop.com—they have a list of locations where you can mail used wigs.
• The American Cancer Society (ACS) has many local chapters that provide free wigs to cancer patients and take wig donations.
• CancerCare has offices throughout the nation and would be happy to take your wig donation.
• University of Michigan Health Center maintains a large collection of donated wigs. Check other health centers in your area as well.
• City wig drives may be occurring in your area. Watch the news and take your wig to the drop-off sites.

Donating a wig can make a big difference to someone you may not even know. As Edith Imre, wig designer, says, “One little girl came into my salon wearing a kerchief, and when I took it off she started to cry. Others have told me they felt like freaks because they had no hair. You just cannot hear things like that and not do something.”

Have you donated your wig? How did you do it? Please share your story.

Photo courtesy A K Wig Designs via Flickr.com.

“I kept lifting the forehead to scratch,” says survivor cebula.

“I can’t advise on wigs,” says survivor lo_mcg, “because I found wearing a wig hot, itchy, and uncomfortable.”

Caregiver saurus3118 agrees. “My mom did not like her wig…said it was hot and itchy. Her scalp was somewhat tender anyway.”

If you’re experiencing some uncomfortable sensations when wearing your wig, don’t despair. There are a few things you can do to make it better.

Choose a quality wig.Some people get into trouble when they try to save money. Low-quality wigs are more likely to itch and feel uncomfortable. You’re going to be wearing it for a few months at least, so don’t skimp on cost. (Your insurance may cover it—check our post for more information.) Take your time and find a quality wig that feels good. Some survivors recommend synthetic hair over real human hair, saying it washes easier and stays comfortable longer.

Rinse thoroughly. Remember those days when your real hair went limp because either a) you didn’t rinse it well enough, or b) it had too much product buildup? The same thing can happen to your wig, so after washing, be sure to rinse thoroughly. Any leftover shampoo or conditioner residue can cause scalp irritation.

Plan a refresher. If you’re going to wear the wig all day, or at least for a few hours, plan to refresh your scalp several times. Take along some organic witch-hazel (try Thayer’s alcohol-free unscented brand) and every so often, steal into a private place, remove the wig, wet a towel, cloth or cotton pad with the witch hazel, and pass it over your scalp. It will help remove oil buildup and make you more comfortable. You may also want to take along a small bottle of your gentle, non-toxic face moisturizer or your cooling, spray toner to apply to your scalp afterwards. We love the organic soothing gel by Dr. Alkaitis and the Aloe Vera Cooling Spray by SantaVerde to soothe sensitive skin on your face and scalp.

Consider a cotton liner. A 100% cotton liner can be worn under your wig, which will help absorb moisture and heat, making your head feel more comfortable. You can get them at almost any wig shop, or go online. A Jon Renau brand, for example, sells for only $5.99 at aaa-medical-wigs.com, or you can get one from Friends Boutique for $5.00. You can also send the wig back to the manufacturer and ask for a silk lining, which according to hairstyling expert Kimberly Belk, is the most comfortable.

Carefully care for your wig. As your wig suffers wear and tear, strands of hair can come back through the base, which can also cause itching. You can help reduce this tendency by always caring for your wig according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and by brushing and combing carefully.

Use zinc lotion for skin irritations. If you notice bumps, redness, and irritation on your scalp after wearing your wig, you may want to try an organic zinc lotion. Zinc is a natural antibacterial and can help prevent infections and irritations. Try Yin Yang Organic Skin Care’s Scalp Cream.

Do you have tips for making wigs more comfortable? Please share.

Photo courtesy dreamyourealive via Flickr.com.

The short answer—usually. Insurance companies are beginning the realize the necessity of a wig in cases of chemotherapy or alopecia, and many will now cover most or all of the cost. But before you ask, here are a couple things you can do to increase your odds of minimal out-of-pocket expense.

First, get your doctor to write a letter or a prescription that includes information as to why you need it, and that it’s for emotional well being, not for cosmetic reasons. Insurance companies love to turn down cosmetic claims. Specifically, ask him to prescribe a “hair prosthesis” or “full cranial hair prosthesis” instead of just a wig. It’s the same thing, but to the insurance carrier, the word “prosthesis” takes your request out of the “cosmetic” realm. In that case, they’ll usually cover most of the cost.

According to Divas Lace Wigs, “Health insurance providers may cover between 80-100% of the cost for your “cranial prosthesis.” DO NOT request coverage for a wig because more than likely, your claim will be denied. You MUST request a ‘cranial prosthesis.’”

Next, fill out your insurance claim paper and get your doctor to sign it, then send it in together with your doctor’s letter and/or prescription. You may also want to include a picture of yourself with your hair gone, and potentially, a letter from your employer if he/she can further support your need for a wig, as it relates to your ability to do your work.

If all else fails and your insurance won’t cover it, you can appeal the decision and ask for a review by the medical board. In addition, many organizations offer free or reduced-cost wigs, like Locks of Love, Cancer Care, and many more. Another option—use your wig as a medical deduction on your next year’s taxes. Even if you do get some coverage from your insurance company, keep your receipts, as the portion that is not covered can be deducted.

Do you have any tips for getting your insurance to cover your wig?

Photo courtesy of commonogarden via Flickr.com.

If you’re avoiding cosmetic or personal-care products that contain toxic chemicals while dealing with cancer…did you ever think about what you put on your wig? Even though synthetic hair and wigs are not actually part of your body, the products used to cleanse and style them will come in contact with your skin, where toxic ingredients may be absorbed. While you’re going through treatment, your scalp and skin are extremely sensitive and compromised, so wearing anything toxic against your scalp for a long period of time (like a wig) isn’t a good idea.

One of the most prevalent toxic ingredients used in affordable brands of personal-care items are parabens. Synthetic preservatives used to increase a product’s shelf life, parabens have been linked to severe allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, and even breast cancers. (For more information, read “Hype or Fact: Are Parabens in Cosmetics Really That Dangerous?”) Paraben Free Beauty explains, “Parabens are contained in most cosmetic products for hair, skin and body, but lately research has turned up some troubling findings about parabens….You should not have to pay for your beauty with your health.” Although the Food and Drug Administration continues to state that parabens are safe for daily use, scientists worry about the repeated exposure consumers have, whether through the use of many products, or through multiple reapplications of those products throughout the day.

Luckily, there is a company—BeautiMark—that creates a line of styling products for synthetic hair that use only paraben-free ingredients. A BeautiMark expert, Jessica Martinez, explains that because cancer patients are already aware of their weakened immune systems and the dangers of carcinogenic ingredients, they see great value in finding safe products that come in contact with the skin, face, and scalp (while washing and styling the hair). Our hope is that BeautiMark will make a full line of toxin-free, wig products, but paraben-free is a great start.

To learn more about buying  your wig ,click here and to find a Wig Salon near you, go to our Wig Salon Directory.

* Share your thoughts: Do you worry about using paraben-free products on synthetic hair? What brands or tips would you recommend?

Phot0 courtesy of Snap Village

Choosing a wig can be a daunting enough process when facing cancer-related hair loss, but finding the perfect wig salon seems to be even more overwhelming. Although visiting a wig salon in person may not seem important at first, “Mimi’s Wig Boutique” believes that purchasing hair pieces online or through a catalog will do more harm than good, as well as potentially waste your money. Take the time and effort to research wig specialists in your area, and find a place that will work with you to ensure that you find the right color, length, and cut for your face. A blogger from the Women’s Hair Loss Project explains the importance of buying your first wig in person: “What you think will look good and what actually works for you are completely different things. If possible, take a trip to a larger city and plan to spend a few hours trying on as many wigs as you need to.”

Many cancer fighters advocate the importance of choosing a salon that uses ethical practices for cancer patients. As a cancer blogger at “Blog For a Cure” explains, “[You need to] be careful when going to a wig store, even ones referred to you by the cancer treatment centers. Yes, there are stores that go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable, but the mark up on the wigs can be enormous.” Monica, a cancer fighter, agrees that it can be difficult to find a reputable wig salon: “[I got lucky because] my hairdresser recently completed the “Look Good, Feel Better” training and informed me she is now carrying wigs in her salon at cost. She was astounded how people in need were getting ripped off.”

Remember to take your time finding a wig consultant or specialist that will make you feel comfortable. The salon should address questions about your lifestyle before pushing a particular style or cut, including how much time you have in the morning to style a wig, or how comfortable are you with styling techniques. (Read more about lifestyle questions here.) For example, if you prefer a low-maintenance morning routine, you’ll want to choose a low-maintenance wig. (Read more at “OMG! So Much To Think About When Choosing a Wig.”)

In the end, choosing the right wig salon involves trial and error. You may have to visit many stores before finding the right fit. A proper wig salon will allow you to try any of the display wigs available, will help you discuss appropriate colors or styles, and may even offer styling services after you’ve purchased the product. The salon should include amenities like three-way mirrors (so you can see your wig at every angle), wig consultants that are free of charge (to explain return policies or purchasing procedures), and even a variety of products for daily maintenance (like shampoos, conditioners, or brushes made specifically for wigs). For more information on caring for your wig or finding the right products, please click here, or talk with other cancer fighters about hair loss on message boards like the Cancer Compass Side Effects forum. To find a Wig Salon near you, go to our Wig Salon Directory.

* How did you choose the right wig salon for you, and what is your advice for others? Please share!

Photo courtesy of Snap Village

Women all over the country are striving to find proactive ways to embrace cancer-related hair loss. Even 53-year-old Judy Joppie (from small town Grand Rapids) found the importance of positive thinking by teaching workshops for patients who want to embrace fashionable scarves. “Even through chemo, it was important to me to not look sick,” she explains. “It’s no fun losing your hair, and it’s really hard on your self-esteem.”

So how can you master the art of wearing a fashion-forward scarf? Many fighters prefer cancer-created brands because they carry features like “padding” (to mimic the fullness that hair creates) and are made from more material, so it’s easier to cover the entire scalp. Luckily, there are a wide variety of cancer-supporting companies creating fashionable scarves for patients, including I Wear It Well, who designs childrens’ head wraps with matching earrings for some of the many thousands of young patients diagnosed with cancer every year. Try checking out websites like Turban Plus, Chemo Savvy, 4women.com and Adaptations, Inc., which offer a variety of padded scarves, turbans, or intricate wraps, depending upon your personal style and preference.

When it comes time to wear your wrap, take the advice of “How To Wrap a Scarf” and fold your scarf in a triangle shape, place at the top of your head, and tie at the nape of your neck (to sufficiently cover the head). It’s important to try on a wide variety of scarf shapes and styles before choosing what looks best on you…or wear something new every day! Whether hood-like square wraps or “rosette” turban scarves, there are many ways to wear a scarf and make it match your personality or outfit perfectly. (Click here for more information.) Make sure to pick soft fabrics that will not irritate your sensitive skin, and wash scarves frequently using toxin-free detergents (like Seventh Generation laundry detergent).

In the end, learning to embrace the feminine fashion behind scarves and head covers can help build a newfound confidence, even when dealing with cancer. Cancer fighter YuYu (shown at top) shares a meaningful encounter with a fellow friend: “I went to a support group, and one girl told me that she likes going out with just a scarf on her head because it made her feel like it is a badge of honor as a cancer fighter. She said she does not feel the need to cover up the fact that she is in treatment, but rather proud of it.” Whether you are proud of the courageous battle you’re fighting or simply want to find a comfortable way to cover your head, try out a scarf. You just might love it!

For more information on picking a cancer-related scarf, click here, or learn more about hair loss during treatment with, “Not My Hair! I Love My Long, Shiny Locks“.

* What do you wear: a scarf, wig, or hat? Please share your opinions or advice on wearing scarves!

Photo courtesy of Yu Yu’s Blog For a Cure weblog.

Headcovers Unlimited suggests visiting a stylist or wig professional first, and letting them work closely with the hair to reshape and style your look. Many cancer survivors advocate the importance of having the wig styled in an intimate setting. One breast-cancer fighter explained, “[My stylist and I] joked and laughed. He told me about other cancer clients and their wig woes. I relaxed, grew more comfortable. Looking in the mirror and seeing myself bald became less difficult.” (Read more here). She added, “The intimacy of the hair stylist-client relationship is legendary; quadruple its intensity when the client is newly bald and the hair stylist is one of the few privy to that knowledge.” Finding a stylist or salon you trust is imperative to perfecting the look of your wig and growing more comfortable with styling techniques. It can also promote emotional healing.

If you’ve purchased a wig made from human hair, styling it at home is not that different from dealing with your previous locks. Human hair wigs can generally be blown dry, straightened, or curled as normal (although it’s important to check with the manufacturer or a stylist first). A cancer fighter from The Cancer Blog explains: “[My human hair wig] can be washed, dried, curled, styled, and cut. It looks so real that some people didn’t even know chemotherapy took my hair. It was the perfect disguise for me.” Nevertheless, it’s crucial to handle all wigs using the appropriate tools, including products (shampoo or conditioners), combs, and brushes designed specifically for wigs.

How do you style a wig made from synthetic materials? A recent article from Love to Know author Theresa Halvorsen explains the benefits of low-maintenance synthetic wigs: “They can be easier to maintain, hold a hair style longer, dry faster after washing and are cheaper than human hair wigs.” However, it’s extremely important to avoid any heated styling tools when dealing with synthetic fibers—you may melt or destroy the hair.

Overall, styling your new wig from home can be easier than you think. It just takes patience, practice and the proper tools…and you’ll be feeling great in no time!

*What is your favorite way to style your wig? Did you visit a stylist or prefer to learn techniques yourself? Please share!

Photo courtesy of Snap Village

Bring along a friend for moral support.

Does stepping inside a wig salon make you feel weak in the knees? We don’t blame you! Making your first trip to the wig salon after dealing with hair loss can be a terrifying venture, but feeling prepared is easier than you think. Start your first visit armed with support. Ask a close friend, relative, or spouse (whose opinion you trust) to tag along, and allow them to be your “appearance advocate.”

If a sales person or wig specialist pressures you towards a decision and you’re feeling overwhelmed, have the friend step in and speak for you.

Make your first visit as soon as possible so you have plenty of time, but do it on a day when you’re feeling good. If the task causes you too much fatigue or anxiety, postpone until another day. Although many cancer patients advocate cutting their hair short or shaving their heads before a wig fitting, a reader on “Tips on Choosing a Wig” believes the opposite: “The best way (I have found) to go about preparing for hair loss, is to seek out a reputable wig fitter and cutter before you lose your hair. It helps the wig stylist to see your natural hair while you still have it. They go by that visual to help you select [a great wig].”

Set aside a large amount of time for your first appointment, because the process may not only be lengthy…it may also require time to step back and take a breather. If you’re feeling confused at any point during the shopping excursion, stop, step back, and walk around the block or go to lunch to give yourself time to think. Since most wig salons and shops have a “No Return Policy,” it’s crucial to create space (and time) so you won’t make a decision you’ll regret. Never purchase a wig before eliciting the opinion of a close confidant, or before viewing the wig yourself in a photograph. Ask your “appearance advocate” to bring a Polaroid or digital camera to your appointment, to let you instantly see a wig on your head.

Finally, before entering the store, think about what kind of wig will best suit your lifestyle and personality. For example, if you hate styling your hair for long periods of time, it’s important to choose a wig with very little upkeep. (Find more information on choosing the right wig here.) Also, look for a wig that is slightly lighter than your natural color, because your skin tone will likely change over time from cancer treatments. Success Beast adds, “Before you buy a wig, investigate all your options carefully. Choosing a good wig now may save you money in the end, because you’ll never have to replace it.”

Whether or not you’re nervous about entering a wig salon, as long as you remember to take your time, research the wig options available, and arrive prepared, your first visit will not only go smoothly…it will probably be a great success.

* We want to hear from you: How did your first visit go to a wig salon go? Were you successful right away? What helped you feel more comfortable and able to make a final decision?

Photo courtesy of Snap Village

So, you’ve finally chosen a brand new wig, but you’re having a hard time coping with it in your morning routine. Remember, you’re not alone! The writer of My Breast Cancer Blog explains, “I feel naked without my shoulder-length, blond hair,” adding, “I wish I could see this time in my life as a new beginning, with a new look. But instead I feel self-conscious and hesitant to unveil [my wig].”

It’s important to discuss your fears and concerns with other cancer patients (at websites like Cancer Forums) to help you feel more comfortable with this extreme life change, but keep in mind that wigs are surprisingly simple and easy to maintain. A cancer fighter from The Cancer Blog admits that although it was difficult losing her hair, “I found great human-hair wigs and learned to enjoy my shower-and-go morning routine. I could get ready in an instant…It was all kind of liberating really.” Although caring for a cancer wig might be easier than you think, it’s important to know what you’re doing before getting started.

The first question many patients ask is, “Do I wash my wig?” In general, try washing both synthetic and human hair wigs every 10 to 15 uses, but be careful to use the appropriate products and techniques. Purchase specialty shampoos, combs and conditioning sprays for wigs beforehand, so you’re always prepared. “How To Care For Your Wig” suggests gently brushing your wig first, then immersing for one minute in cold water with wig shampoo (gently “swirling” throughout the mixture), and rinsing and blotting the wig afterward, allowing it to air dry. Avoid rubbing, teasing or scrubbing your wig (or brushing it when wet), as you may damage the hair completely.

If you’re worried about how to comb or handle your wig on a day-to-day basis, try to always use the appropriate tools and methods. Wig experts at E-how suggest removing tangles with a specialty spray conditioner designed for wigs, and combing and brushing wigs with a wire brush starting at the ends (instead of the roots). Remember to never use heat-generating styling tools (like curling irons or flat irons) on synthetic wigs, and use care when dealing with human-hair varieties.

We love some specialty wig boutiques that have a focus on cancer-related hair loss and caring for wigs. Check out Mimi’s Wig Boutique in the Texas area, City Wigs and boutiques in the Fresno, CA, area, and The Ellen H. Lazar Shoppe in the New Jersey area.

For more information on caring for your new wig, check out “Coping With Hair Loss,” or share your opinions, concerns and ideas with cancer fighters at Online Community For Cancer Discussions. If you are just starting to shop for a wig, read our post on How to Choose the Best Wig for You.

* How do you care for your wig on a daily basis? Please share your advice and tricks!

Photo coutesy of Mimi’s Wig Boutique

Dealing with the negative side effects of cancer treatments (like hair loss) can be difficult enough, but having to choose the right wig for your lifestyle can seem even harder. Although many cancer fighters go for hats or scarves instead, wigs have helped a wide variety of patients feel attractive and confident while undergoing cancer treatments. It’s important to research all of your options before deciding if a wig is right for you.

The first step to choosing the perfect wig for your personality is deciding between synthetic or human hair. Synthetic is generally lower in upkeep and easy to maintain, while human hair can be great for a realistic feel, texture, and the ability to style on a daily basis. Unfortunately, not every woman can afford a wig of human hair (which typically costs over $1,000), and must choose a more affordable synthetic brand instead (usually $45–$100). Custom-made wigs are wonderful, personalized luxuries for those who can afford them (or tolerate the longer wait time for arrival), but many prefer a “ready-made” wig that can be purchased immediately and shaped by a stylist later. (For more information, see “Hair Care Advice for Cancer Patients.”) A cancer fighter at Cancer Chat forums adds, “I recommend monofilaments wigs [wigs where hair is weaved individually into a gauze-like fabric, instead of cloth]. The wig caps are thin, ventilated, and transparent. They’re very comfortable to wear and not itchy like other wigs.”

The Breast Cancer website suggests taking your time when choosing the right wig, and beginning the process before starting treatment (because you’ll have more energy). Try checking for available wigs at your hospital’s cancer center, a local beauty salon, or even online. If you simply cannot afford a wig, try taking the advice of “Day To Day Matters: Wigs,” and “…ask for a prescription for an ‘extra-cranial prosthesis’ [a wig] to submit to your insurer. Not every company reimburses, but you should try.” When trying on wigs, remember they should never be placed over the ears or pulled down too far over the forehead, because they’ll give an unnatural appearance.

If you prefer to maintain your previous hairstyle, The Cancer Blog suggests saving a swatch of your old hair (or taking photos in natural sunlight) before undergoing treatment. This can make the process of matching your previous hair color much easier, especially when using human-hair wigs (which can be dyed by a stylist to match). If you prefer to branch away from your old style, try something new by changing the color or cut subtlety, although wig expert Carliz Sotelo Teague warns, “Go with what you know. You want to feel comfortable first…then you can go with something a little more daring.” When in doubt, always remember to bring plenty of understanding friends and family along for support, and try to make the experience as fun and uplifting as possible.

Are you still confused about what to do with your wig after you’ve brought it home? Click here to read our post on How to Care for Your Wig and here to find a Wig Salon near you in the Cinco Vidas Wig Directory.

* We want to hear from you: How did you choose your wig? Did you prefer to change your look or keep your style the same? What is your favorite type of wig?

Photo courtesy of Snap Village.