This article is taking a look at where to buy wigs for cancer patients.
Cancer is a battle. That is why the brave men, women, and children going through treatments are called fighters and survivors. It is also a disease that affects not only the physical body but your self-image and confidence too.
I’m Bianca, a wig stylist who has been styling wigs for events in London since 2006. I’m here today to help you find the best places to buy a wig for yourself or a loved one going through cancer treatment.
Keep reading to go through some options on where the best place to buy a wig would be, taking your circumstances into consideration.
Brick and Mortar Stores And Charity Shops
Many local cancer charities either provide wigs for free, at a reduced price, or can assist you in finding a wig from a wig store that is within your budget.
A plus point to heading down to see the wigs in a brick and mortar building is that you can feel the wig caps to see if it offers the flexibility and softness you will likely be looking for. You can also check to see whether the wig cap is a good fit for your head.
Many local cancer charities and even international charities offer support with wig procurement.
Look for your local charity or wig store online or ask the doctor’s office, as they will be able to recommend one too.
Online Retailers
From online wig stores specializing in wigs for cancer patients to Amazon, there are a myriad of online stores that can offer you a wig within your budget and styling level.
The pro to this is you can generally get a better deal online as the store has lower overheads than a traditional brick and mortar retailer. This means that online sellers can be competitive in their pricing.
If you decide to go down the Amazon route, I have put together a Round-Up Review here.
If you decide to go to a specialized cancer patient wig seller such as headcovers, be sure to ask some questions about the breathability of the cap, recommended methods of attachment, and how much styling is required.
This will help you get a wig that is exactly right for your needs.
Your Hair Stylist
Yes, that’s right. A hairstylist or hairdresser that specializes in extensions usually has a pretty good grasp of wigs too. They will be able to help you procure a decent wig at a good price.
The other benefit of approaching a hairdresser is that once the wig has arrived, they will be able to help you fit the wig, color it, style it and basically get it looking exactly right for you.
Another benefit is that they will educate you on how to wear the wig, care for the wig and get the best value out of your wig. Your stylist will also be able to answer any questions you have and alleviate any concerns by talking through them and finding a solution.
Hairdressers and hair stylists generally have access to products that aren’t widely available to the public. Especially when it comes to human hair products. I know that in certain countries I’ve lived in if I want to get my hands on the best hair extensions for instance, I have to go find a participating salon and ask someone to order them on my behalf.
Having insider knowledge and access to better quality products at a better price than you will get them, coupled with the knowledge to educate you and customize your wig for you, makes paying a little extra for a hairdresser’s time and expertise worth it.
A Specialized Wig Studio
Want a happy marriage of all the above? Specialized wig studios are a brick and mortar store where they have hairstylists on hand to help you pick a wig. They also then color, cut, and customize the wig for you.
The wig studio will usually also have a package where you can buy all the related products from shampoos, conditioners, brushes and whatever else you may require. They will also help you secure the wig in the best method that fits your requirements.
Some people find that a wig band is too restrictive, whereas others swear by wig glue and a few hairpins. A wig studio will help you navigate through these options and give you the necessary tools to wear your new wig with pride and confidence.
Some wig studios have a mobile service which discreetly comes to you in the comfort of your home. This is a good option for those people who are feeling ill, uncomfortable or unsure about visiting the studio in person.
A major plus point is that for the lifetime of the wig, you will receive well after care, and you can go back for maintenance or a replacement whenever it is necessary.
The downside is that this option is not cheap. But it is convenient and one of the best ways to make sure that your wig is made to fit you exactly as you want.
Tip: Many insurance companies cover the cost for wigs for patients suffering hair loss caused by medical conditions, so you can check with them first.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions relating to where to buy wigs for cancer patients.
Where do you get wigs for cancer patients?
Most cancer clinics or hospitals will be able to provide you with a list of wigs suppliers. If you are looking for a better-looking wig for cancer patients suffering from hair loss, you can purchase them from a hairdresser or wig studio.
An online store is also a great way to purchase wigs for cancer patients if you already have some wig-wearing experience.
For patients who can’t afford a wig, you can reach out to charities like the American Cancer Society (tel: 800-227-2345), CancerCare (tel: 800-813-HOPE). Some of their offices and branches offer free wigs.
A friend who recovered from breast cancer got a free wig from the Taussig Cancer Center Wig Boutique (tel: 216-445-6885). She said they were very friendly and nice.
Does insurance pay for wigs?
Most insurances will cover the cost of a wig if you are suffering from hair loss caused by medical conditions (including alopecia chemotherapy). You just need to provide proof from your doctors.
However, do check with them to confirm how much they can cover before enrolling for the policy is a great idea.
Wrapping Up
Cancer is a battle. Wigs are one form of armor we can use to defend our self-esteem, self-respect, confidence, body image, and self-worth.
Having hair doesn’t define you, but having the right and autonomy to choosing whether to have hair or not is where the true power is.
Going through these options together, I hope this has helped ease your journey and clarify where you can go get a wig to support yourself or a beloved going through cancer treatment.
Whether you go to a brick and mortar store, a hairstylist, an online retailer or a wig studio, go forth armed with the knowledge that you are taking one step closer to taking back some control in your appearance. When control is so fleeting, this is an empowering and uplifting step.
Are you or a loved one going through a cancer journey?
Do you have any tips, tricks, or any words of advice to share?
Please share them in the comments below.