Surviving cancer is one of the most challenging things that a person can go through in their life. Another thing they have to undergo is managing the aftereffects of the treatments. Most of the drugs that eradicate cancerous cells have undesirable side effects, including appetite loss, nausea, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, and hair loss.
These conditions mostly go away on their own, but there are some parts, like hair, that take longer to recover more than others can. The hair is a person’s crowning glory, and losing it can take a toll on one’s self-esteem. Thanks to technology and innovation, hair options for cancer survivors are more accessible than ever. Here are some of them.
Synthetic or Human-Hair Wigs
Wigs are the most common hair replacements for cancer survivors. Prices vary, but synthetic wigs tend to be cheaper compared to human hair wigs. However, there are midrange wigs, which are a combination of the two and are softer and less shiny than cheap synthetic wigs.
An advantage of using wigs is that they’re easy to put on and take off. Additionally, wigs made with human hair are natural-looking, and there is a wide variety of colors and types. Wigs also do not impede any hair growth and can be used daily until the hair grows back.
Like most things, the wigs will need maintenance. If they are used every day, they need to be washed regularly to get rid of accumulated oils and dirt.
Depending on the kind of wig used, you should be gentle in washing it to avoid strands from falling out prematurely. You can only style the wig after it is completely dried, and remember to take care when using straighteners or curling iron.
You can’t use heat on cheap wigs because it will melt them. If you need a wig to be trimmed and styled, go to a professional instead of attempting to do it yourself, or it will be a pricey mistake.
Head Scarves
A scarf or a head wrap can be used in tandem with a wig. For those days when you just want to lounge at home but don’t want to leave the head bare, wrapping it in a scarf is a recommended alternative.
For utmost comfort, it is suggested to get scarves or wraps made with cotton, rayon, or polyester. If you like the idea of wearing scarves in different ways, you can look at this tutorial for ideas.
Turban or Beanie
Sometimes, it’s more convenient to have something ready to wear to make it easier on your end. A turban, beanie, or any cap you like is a great thing to have on hand. They can be used with hair prostheses as well.
If you are interested in sewing or knitting, there are numerous tutorials out there you can follow so you can make your own.
Gentle Hair Care after Therapy
New hair growth after chemotherapy can be fragile. It is not recommended to use styling products, apply heat, or color your new hair until it is strong enough. Your scalp can be sensitive, and it can irritate or damage the hair follicles, which can get in the way of growing hair.
As much as you’d like to resume life as you know it before cancer, you need to have a little bit more patience with hair. For some, it can take some time, and it may not grow the way it used to.
Continue to take care of your scalp by using gentle shampoo and conditioner. If you are sporting a bald head, make sure to protect it by slathering on sunscreen and by wearing a hat to shield it from intense heat. Massaging your scalp can also help promote blood flow, which can stimulate hair follicles.
Bottom Line
You’ve survived a horrible ordeal, and while you are slowly picking up the pieces, there are still challenges up ahead. It is normal to feel self-conscious, depressed, and anxious about losing hair. Women, especially, are more vulnerable to these feelings because hair is highly prized.
Talk about your feelings with trusted friends or loved ones. Better yet, find a support group so you can connect with others who are going through the same thing. Remember that you are still beautiful with or without your hair.
