Hi, soon to start chemo and anticipating losing my hair. Any recommendation/advice would be appreciated. Thank you.
Hi Bret, I went to my local Macmillan centre (Maggies centres can help too) who were able to help with wigs. I went before I started chemo so that she could see what my style and colour was and find a good match. I didn’t want something to different to what my style was, but everyone is different and some take this as an opportunity to try different wigs and maybe go for a complete change. Taking care of the wig is pretty simple and you only need to wash it once a week with special shampoo and conditioner.
Whilst I still had my own hair I was advised to wash it once maybe twice a week with a gentle shampoo. I was advised not to use baby shampoo (even Johnson’s) as that still has various chemicals in it. Instead I was advised to use faith in nature which has no sbs or parabans. It does smell lovely to depending on which variant you opt for. You can buy it on Amazon. I did but the conditioner but hardly ever used it.
Theoughtout my chemo I used the scalp cooling cap too. This helped to prevent complete hair loss on me, I only had about 30% left. It also helps with the regrowth after. The first 10 mins are the hardest but paracetamol and a good book or game on phone help to take your mind off it. I didn’t shave or cut my hair short I just left it. To me I felt more in control and as although I was losing my hair I wasn’t going to give in by shaving it. Lots of people do shave or cut their hair everyone has to do what they feel is best for them.
You can book an appointment with a wig company online like Joseph Wigs or Trendco and visit them. I haven’t yet done that but I think I might as it would be nice as I would like to see what other style would look nice.
Wishing you all the best.
Hugs from cuffcake x x x x x
Hi Bret - My hospital gave me a referral list of wig people plus a contribution towards the cost. I’ve been using the cold cap (2 sessions so far) but I’ve lost a lot of my hair due to severe matting so had to chop it off. Decided not to continue with it and contact my wig lady - I’ve chosen various styles on trendco so these will be ordered so I can try and then pick my favourite.
All the best with your journey x
Same with me re wig lady and contribution. And don't forget you get them vat free as they are classed as medical equipment. Same as post surgery bras
Many thanks Joules52. I have decided not to try the cold cap - sounds horrendous! Have an appointment with wig company on Thursday so keeping fingers crossed I'll find one, at least, that I like and can wear. Just have to 'look forward' to start of chemo on the 4th. Good luck on your continuing journey as well xxx
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