Wigs for Cancer Patients: Your Guide to Finding the Right Wig

One of the most common side effects of using chemotherapy to treat cancer is hair loss. For many women experiencing chemotherapy-related hair loss, it’s about more than just hair. The physical change due to treatment can also affect cancer patients psychologically and emotionally.

There are different options available to help patients cope with and manage chemo hair loss. Some may choose to wear head coverings, such as hats, scarves, or turbans, to help keep their scalps warm or add some flair to their wardrobe. Others may choose to wear wigs during their treatment, either choosing a wig that matches their usual style or perhaps using this time to experiment with hairstyles they’ve never worn before. And some people may choose not to cover their scalp at all.

The tips in this post are meant to help those facing chemo-related hair loss feel educated and supported during their journey and empowered to make decisions that are right for them along the way.

Jump to

What to expect with hair loss during cancer treatment
Why wigs matter during cancer treatment
Wig types and styles for cancer patients
Wig fiber options
Wig and hairpiece style options
Common wig and hairpiece constructions
How to choose the right wig during cancer treatment
Choosing a wig color, cut, and style
Wig-wearing tips
Wig styling tips
Wig care and maintenance
Where to find wigs for chemotherapy patients
Financial assistance for wigs

---

Wigs for Cancer Patients: A Guide to Finding the Right Fit, Style, and Support

For those who want to wear a wig during cancer treatment, the process of choosing just the right one can be overwhelming. To simplify the process, there are several tips to keep in mind when considering wigs for cancer patients.

What to expect with hair loss during cancer treatment

Below are some common questions about chemotherapy hair loss to help patients and their loved ones know what to expect.

What causes chemotherapy hair loss?

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment, meaning it travels throughout the whole body, attacking both cancerous and healthy cells alike. Some of the healthy cells that chemo drugs affect are cells in the hair roots, leading to hair loss.

Hair loss can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows, including the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, armpits, pubic area, and arms and legs. Whether your hair falls out completely or only thins, and the areas affected, depend on the type and dosage of chemo you receive.

How long does it take for hair to start falling out due to chemo?

While not all types of chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss, the majority of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy will experience it. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 65% of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy will experience hair loss as a treatment side effect. For breast cancer patients specifically, approximately 99.9% will experience hair loss within 18 days of beginning chemotherapy.

Will my hair fall out completely or just get thin?

The extent of hair loss depends on the type of treatment you are on. Some chemo drugs cause more aggressive hair loss, while other drugs may cause a gradual thinning of the hair or even no hair loss at all. You can ask your doctor what type of chemotherapy you are on and how much hair loss is to be expected.

What is the chemo hair loss process like?

When someone begins to lose their hair due to chemo, it can either fall out quickly in clumps or thin gradually. When hair loss begins, you may start to notice more loose hairs on your pillow, in your hairbrush, or in the shower drain. Your scalp may also feel tender to the touch. Hair loss will likely continue throughout your treatment and up to a few weeks after.

When will my hair grow back after chemo?

The good news is that chemo-induced hair loss is usually temporary, with 98% of patients experiencing hair regrowth within 3 months of completing their treatment.

---

Why wigs matter during cancer treatment

According to research studies, chemotherapy-induced hair loss, also called chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA), is one of the most commonly reported and psychologically distressing adverse side effects of cancer treatment. It is estimated that 65% of patients undergoing chemotherapy will experience hair loss and the physiological and emotional stress that can come with it, with some patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and lowered self-confidence due to their hair loss.

Breast cancer survivor and advocate Jessica Baladad explains the psychological impact of her hair loss journey: “The loss of hair is the first external sign that your breast cancer diagnosis is transforming your body, but getting through that first initial shock [of hair loss] prepares you for making difficult decisions. Sometimes when we do something new, our brains tell us, ‘Oh, no. Don’t do that. It’s scary!’ The reality is that new experiences are just that: new. They are not inherently dangerous. Our brains keep us safe by helping us stay within the lines of our normal, but when we are confronted with unforeseen challenges, such as those with breast cancer, we have the capacity to do the hard things.”

This is where wigs for cancer patients may come in. To address the emotional impact of hair loss from chemotherapy, many people choose to wear a wig in order to boost their self-confidence and help maintain a sense of normalcy in a season that is anything but normal. In a situation where individuals may have very little control over what is happening in and to their bodies, being able to make decisions and control at least one thing—their hair—can have a big psychological impact.

---

Wig types and styles for cancer patients

There are multiple types and styles of wigs for cancer patients to choose from. The type and style chosen may depend on how much hair loss the person has experienced and what their objective is for wearing a wig. Other factors to consider may be the cost of the wig and the type of hair used to make it.

Wig fiber options

Wig fibers are the materials used to make the hair portion of a wig. There are generally three types of wig fibers to choose from: synthetic, human hair, and blended.

Synthetic wigs: These wigs are made from artificial fibers like polyester or acrylic and are widely available. Synthetic wigs are more affordable, typically ranging from $100 to $500, and are easier to maintain than human hair wigs, allowing for quick styling and a low-maintenance experience.

• Pros of synthetic wigs:
  • Lower cost than human hair wigs
  • Lightweight
  • Set style and color, allowing for easy styling and maintenance
  • Color will not fade
  • Weather resistant in humid or rainy conditions
• Cons of synthetic wigs:
  • Can be shinier than human hair wigs, leading to a less natural look
  • Short lifespan, typically 4-6 months
  • Style and color cannot be changed, and you cannot use heat tools to style

Human hair wigs: These wigs are made from real human hair. Human hair wigs often offer a more natural look and feel than synthetic wigs, can be styled in different ways, and have a longer lifespan than synthetic wigs. However, human hair wigs are often more expensive, usually $500+, and require more maintenance than synthetic wigs.

• Pros of human hair wigs:
  • Natural look and feel
  • Can be styled in different ways using heat tools
  • Can be colored 
  • Longer lifespan than synthetic wigs
• Cons of human hair wigs:
  • More expensive than synthetic wigs
  • Higher maintenance and care, including regular washing and styling
  • Can feel stuffy in hot weather

Blended wigs: Blended wigs are made from a combination of both human hair and synthetic hair fibers. They offer a natural look and feel as well as low-maintenance styling and care.

• Pros of blended wigs:
  • Cost-effective, with pricing generally between human hair and synthetic wigs
  • More natural look and feel than synthetic wigs
  • Easy to style and maintain, can usually use heat tools to style
• Cons of blended wigs:
  • Harder to care for than synthetic wigs
  • Less natural feel than human hair wigs
  • Not as versatile as human hair wigs (though more versatile than synthetic wigs)

Wig and hairpiece style options

Whether you choose a synthetic wig or a human hair wig, there are different options for wig styles to choose from.

Common wig and hairpiece constructions

Wig construction refers to the way a wig is built, specifically focusing on the wig cap, which is the foundation that holds the hair. Wig cap construction can impact fit, comfort, and the overall appearance of the wig. If you choose to wear a wig or other hairpiece due to hair loss or thinning, there are different construction types to choose from, including lace front, full lace, monofilament, and hand-tied wigs.

Lace front wig: A lace front wig has a sheer panel of lace that matches your skin tone along the front hairline of the wig. This creates a natural-looking hairline that blends in with your skin.

Full lace wig: A full lace wig uses a lace cap that matches your skin tone and covers the entire head. A full lace wig allows you to part the hair in any direction and create different styles with the hair, including ponytails. Full lace wigs are usually considered the most natural-looking.

Monofilament wig: Similar to full lace wigs, monofilament wigs use a cap to cover the crown of the head and mimic the appearance of a natural scalp and hair growth. Considered more durable than full lace wigs, monofilament wigs are sometimes described as less breathable.

Hand-tied wig: These wigs are similar in appearance to full lace wigs but are handmade rather than made with a machine. The hand-tying of each strand or fiber of hair to the wig cap creates an extremely natural look. Hand-tied wigs tend to be lightweight and breathable.

---

How to choose the right wig during cancer treatment

When facing hair loss due to chemotherapy, it is a good idea to plan ahead before hair loss begins, especially if you want to match your chosen wig to your natural hairstyle and color. There are additional factors to consider as well, including comfort, budget, style, and ease of maintenance of a wig.

How to get fitted for a wig

In addition to choosing a wig that is the best type and style for you, it is important that your wig fits properly in order to look the most natural and be the most comfortable. If you are purchasing a wig in a store, the store staff will be able to help fit the wig. But if you are buying a wig online, the tips and steps below will help you measure before ordering.  

When measuring your head for a wig, keep the following tips in mind: 

• If possible, wait to measure your head until after the hair falls out to get a true measurement of your scalp without hair. Or wet your hair to flatten it against your scalp as much as possible.
• Make sure the tape measure is snug—but not tight—around your head. 
• Measure twice to ensure accuracy.
• Make note of measurements in inches as most wig manufacturers use inches.

There are three steps in measuring your head for a wig:

1. Measure head circumference. Use a flexible measuring tape to measure your head. Starting at the center of your forehead where your hairline begins, wrap the measuring tape around your head, following down the hairline towards your ear, resting the tape measure where the top of your ear connects to your head. Continue wrapping the tape measure around your hairline at the back of your head (nape of the neck), around to the other ear, and back to the front hairline. 
2. Measure front to back. Place the flexible tape measure in the middle of your forehead where your hairline begins, then pull it straight back down the center of your head to the nape of your neck, where the scalp ends at the back of your head. 
3. Measure side to side. Establish your “top of head” point by starting at the center of your front hairline and measuring approximately 7 inches towards the back of your head. This is the “top of head” point. Then, place the tape measure at the top of one ear where it connects with your head. Pull the tape measure across your head to the other ear, making sure it crosses through your “top of head” point. 

Wig size chart

Most wig manufacturers use standard size charts for their wigs. However, be sure to double-check the size options and measurements of the manufacturer you choose to order from. Most wigs will come with adjustable straps inside to also help get a secure and accurate fit.

Wig Size	Circumference	Front to Back	Side to Side
Petite	21″	13 ⅜”	12 ⅞ – 13”
Average	21 ½”	14 ½ – 14 ¾”	13 ⅜”
Large	23″	14 ⅞ – 15 ¼”	13 ⅞”

---

Choosing a wig color, cut, and style

When deciding on a wig, some people may choose to have it closely match their usual hair color and style, while others may opt for a different color or style from their usual.

Tips for choosing wig color

• If you want the wig to match your usual hair color, cut a large lock of hair from the front of your head. Use this lock as a color reference as you shop for a wig.
• Be sure to compare colors in outdoor light as well as indoor light to get the best match.
• For some older women, lighter colors are often more flattering and natural-looking. 
• Brunettes who are going gray may want to consider a lighter brown wig, with or without highlights. White and silver wigs can be flattering as well.
• Consider your skin tone. Chemotherapy can often make the skin appear pale, so women with black hair may choose to get a dark brown wig instead of black to adjust for this.
• For the most natural look, try to choose a color that is no more than two shades darker than your natural shade. Or to create a more drastic change from your usual look, pick a wig with much lighter or darker highlights.

Tips for choosing a wig style

When choosing the right wig style for you, consider your natural face shape.

• Oval faces: These faces are versatile and are suited to a wide range of styles.
• Round faces: Round faces may benefit from a style with height or volume at the top that will elongate the face.
• Square faces: These faces may benefit from a hairstyle featuring soft curls or waves.
• Heart-shaped faces: Heart shapes may be suited to wigs that add volume at the chin level.
• Oblong faces: Oblong faces may benefit from a voluminous style with layers rather than sleek styles.

When considering wig length, keep your lifestyle and maintenance needs in mind. Long-length wigs tend to require more upkeep and maintenance than shorter styles.

---

Wig-wearing tips

When you receive your wig, you will need to fit it properly to your head for the most comfortable experience. Many wigs come with adjustable straps to fine-tune the fit, in addition to the overall size of the wig selected.

To get the most wear and comfort out of your wig, follow these tips:

• Carefully follow all instructions that come with your wig, including those for fitting, wearing, washing, and styling.
• If you wear glasses or removable hearing aids, remove them before putting your wig on. Replace glasses or hearing aids once the wig is in place.
• To place your wig, hold it by the sides, right-side-up, with the tag or label facing the back. Place the back label in the middle of your forehead, then slide it on from front to back, until the label rests against the nape of your neck and the front of the wig is in line with your front hairline. Remember that the wig will not look as natural if it is pulled too far down or too far back in the front.
• Do not place the wig over your ears. The wig ear tabs should be even and aligned slightly in front of your ears on each side. If your wig includes wire tabs, push the wire in toward your face to make the wig lie flat.
• If the wig is too big or slides around on your head, adjust the internal straps to tighten it. It should feel secure but not uncomfortably tight. 
• Consider getting some wig accessories to make the experience more comfortable, such as cushioned wig grip bands, wig liners, or gripping headbands.

---

Wig styling tips

Use the following tips and suggestions to style your wig:

• Do not use color treatments or heat tools (curling iron, flat iron, hair dryer, etc.) on synthetic wigs.
• If desired, have a hairstylist trim your wig to your liking.
• Gently shake the wig out before wearing, especially shorter styles.
• Brush short wigs as little as possible. Instead, use your fingers or a hair pick to gently smooth it.
• Before styling a long wig, use a special wig conditioning spray and gently brush with a wig brush, starting at the ends first.
• Use a special wig styling cream to create and hold a style.
• Use scarves, headbands, or other hair accessories as you would in your own hair.

---

Caring for your wig

Wigs require special care and maintenance to keep them looking fresh and natural and to increase their longevity.

Daily wig maintenance tips

• Carefully follow all wig care and maintenance instructions from your wig’s manufacturer.
• Store your wig on a wig stand when not wearing it.
• Only use hair care products, such as shampoo, conditioner, and styling cream, that are specially formulated for wig use.
• Do not use heat tools, such as curling irons or blow dryers, on synthetic wigs or wigs that are not heat-resistant. 
• Brush your wig only when needed, using a special wig brush or hair pick. Consider spraying it with a wig spray conditioner before brushing.

Wig washing tips

• Carefully follow all washing instructions from your wig’s manufacturer.
• In general, wash your wig using specially formulated wig hair care products every 6-8 wears, or about every 2-3 weeks. If you wear your wig daily or are exposed to smoke or other odors, you may need to wash it more often.
• Gently brush or comb your wig to remove any tangles before washing.
• Follow all instructions for mixing, applying, and rinsing wig shampoo and conditioner. 
• Do not brush or comb a wig until it is completely dry.
• Allow synthetic wigs to air dry at room temperature (do not use a blow dryer). The style will return on its own after the wig is completely dry.
• If your wig is heat-resistant, such as certain human hair wigs, heat tools such as blow dryers and curling irons may be used to dry and style after washing.

---

Where to find wigs for chemotherapy patients

Independently owned wig shops and boutiques offer wigs for purchase, including for chemotherapy patients. Certain cancer centers may even have a wig shop as part of their patient offerings. Check with your treatment center to see if they have any recommendations for wig shops or manufacturers. Cancer patient and survivor support groups are also a great place to ask for wig recommendations.

Wigs are often available for purchase online as well. If purchasing a wig online, be sure that the measurements of your head size are accurate and the wig you order is the closest in size to those measurements. Because it can sometimes be difficult to tell the true color of a wig online, ask if the online seller has sample color swatches they can send you, and inquire about their returns and exchange policy before placing an order.

Are wigs for chemotherapy patients covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for wigs varies from plan to plan and even from state to state. However, most health insurance plans do not cover wigs as cosmetic items. Sometimes, if the wig is prescribed as “medically necessary” by a doctor as a means to treat chemotherapy hair loss, certain insurance plans may cover it. Check with your insurance company to determine if wigs are covered as part of cancer chemotherapy treatment. 

Take note that some insurance companies may use language such as “cranial prosthesis” and “medical wig” to refer to wigs for chemotherapy patients.

Financial assistance for wigs for chemotherapy patients

Whether synthetic or human hair, wigs can be costly. If you are in need of financial assistance to help with the cost of a wig due to chemotherapy-related hair loss, contact the following organizations to see if they can help you.

• EverYou by the American Cancer Society: Offers low-cost and affordable wig and hairpiece options
• TRS Care: Helps patients qualify for wigs through their insurance company 
• National Wigs for Cancer Society: Assists cancer patients in finding low-cost wigs
• CancerCare: Provides information and resources about wigs and hair loss, including organizations that help provide free or low-cost wigs to patients

No matter how a woman chooses to manage chemotherapy-related hair loss—whether by embracing her baldness, using head coverings, or choosing to wear a wig—the important thing is that she feels comfortable, physically and emotionally, as she continues her treatment journey.

---

Sources

Mayo Clinic
National Institutes of Health
National Institutes of Health
American Cancer Society
wigs.com

National Breast Cancer Foundation is here for you as you navigate a breast cancer diagnosis. Visit our website to learn about NBCF breast cancer support groups, obtain free educational resources, or find a patient navigator in your area.