your life ENJOYING THE JOURNEY
Should I get a wig? Experts say it’s a good idea to get a wig or head covering before you need it so you’re prepared. Plus, if you pick it out before your chemotherapy begins, the stylist can see your natural hair color and style. Your insurance company may pay for a wig due to medical hair loss, so check your policy. Also, many local chapters of the American Cancer Society provide free wigs. Call their toll-free number, 1-800-227-2345 to find a local chapter or ask at a nearby cancer center.
selecting a wig
When can I start coloring my hair? Hair care experts usually advise waiting at least six months after hair comes back in to start coloring. Sometimes new growth won’t hold color. For an alternative to the usual chemical-laden color, you might try natural, vegetable- based dyes or henna rinses.
Can I help my hair, eyelashes, eyebrows come in any faster? There are many products on the market that say they help hair growth. Rogaine® or a generic version of the hair- growing medicine (chemical name: minoxidil) may be helpful for thin hair caused by tamoxifen. Before trying a hair-growth product, check with your doctor. The real secret, experts say, is patience.
Bethany after her husband shaved her head.
BreastCancer.org offers insights into how to select the right wig for you:
• Short-haired wigs are easier to wear and care for. They are also cooler to wear in the summer.
• Keep in mind, your wig doesn’t have to last for- ever—you’ll probably use it for less than one year. Synthetic wigs are much cheaper than real hair; but they still look and feel good, and require little attention and care.
• Pick a comfortable wig. Just say no to ones that feel scratchy against your scalp.
• Choose a hair color somewhat lighter than your own hair. This is usually more flattering to your skin tone, which may change during chemother- apy. And because wigs are usually thicker than your own hair, they tend to look darker.
The hair on the top of your head grows faster than your eyebrows or eyelashes.
{ What You Should Know
How long it takes for a full head of hair to grow back varies from person to person; however, the timetable below outlines what’s typical.
Chemotherapy ends ● 40 HEALTHYADVICE.COM 2-3 weeks ●
soft fuzz grows in
1 month ●
real hair starts to grow at a normal rate
2 months ●
one inch of hair all over head
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