Losing Your Hair: A Common Side Effect of Breast Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy, which is used to treat many types of cancer, can cause hair loss. This is because chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which include hair cells. Hair loss can start as early as 2 weeks after starting chemotherapy and can last for several months after treatment ends.
Radiation therapy, which is used to treat breast cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes or other areas of the body, can also cause hair loss. Radiation therapy can damage the hair follicles, which are responsible for hair growth. Hair loss from radiation therapy can start during treatment and can last for several months after treatment ends.
Hormonal therapy, which is used to treat breast cancer that is hormone-receptor positive, can also cause hair loss. Hormonal therapy can lower the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body, which can lead to hair loss. Hair loss from hormonal therapy can start several months after starting treatment and can last for several years after treatment ends.
Hair loss can be a very difficult side effect of breast cancer treatment. It can affect a person’s self-image and confidence. It can also make it difficult to participate in everyday activities, such as going to work or school. However, there are a number of things that breast cancer patients can do to cope with hair loss, including wearing a wig.
Wigs for Breast Cancer Patients
Wigs can be a great way for breast cancer patients to cope with hair loss. Wigs can help to restore a person’s sense of self-image and confidence. They can also make it easier to participate in everyday activities.
There are a number of different types of wigs available for breast cancer patients. Some wigs are made from synthetic hair, while others are made from human hair. Synthetic wigs are generally less expensive than human hair wigs, but they may not look as natural. Human hair wigs are more expensive, but they look and feel more natural.
Breast cancer patients can choose from a variety of wig styles, including short wigs, long wigs, curly wigs, and straight wigs. They can also choose from a variety of wig colors, including black, brown, blonde, and red.
Benefits of Wigs for Breast Cancer Patients
There are a number of benefits to wearing a wig for breast cancer patients, including:
- Improved self-image and confidence: Wigs can help breast cancer patients to feel more like themselves again. They can help to restore a person’s sense of identity and confidence.
- Increased participation in everyday activities: Wigs can make it easier for breast cancer patients to participate in everyday activities, such as going to work or school. They can help to reduce the stigma associated with hair loss and make it easier for people to interact with others.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Wigs can help to reduce stress and anxiety for breast cancer patients. They can help to provide a sense of normalcy and control during a very difficult time.
How to Choose a Wig
There are a few things to consider when choosing a wig, including:
- The type of hair: Synthetic wigs are less expensive than human hair wigs, but they may not look as natural. Human hair wigs are more expensive, but they look and feel more natural.
- The wig style: There are a variety of wig styles available, including short wigs, long wigs, curly wigs, and straight wigs. Choose a style that you feel comfortable wearing and that will complement your facial features.
- The wig color: There are a variety of wig colors available, including black, brown, blonde, and red. Choose a color that is close to your natural hair color or that you think would look good on you.
Wig Care
Wigs require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for wig care:
- Wash your wig regularly: Wigs should be washed every 1-2 weeks, or more often if you wear it a lot. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner and be sure to rinse the wig thoroughly.
- Brush your wig gently: Brush your wig gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove tangles. Be careful not to over-brush your wig, as this can damage the hair.
- Store your wig properly: When you’re not wearing your wig, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your wig in direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the hair.
Resources for Breast Cancer Patients
There are a number of resources available for breast cancer patients, including:
- The American Cancer Society: The American Cancer Society provides information and support to breast cancer patients, including information on wigs and other hair loss solutions.
- The National Cancer Institute: The National Cancer Institute provides information and support to breast cancer patients, including information on wigs and other hair loss solutions.
- Look Good Feel Better®: Look Good Feel Better® is a non-profit organization that provides free wig styling and makeup tips to cancer patients.
Conclusion
Wigs can be a great way for breast cancer patients to cope with hair loss. They can help to restore a person’s sense of self-image and confidence. They can also make it easier to participate in everyday activities. There are a number of different types of wigs available for breast cancer patients, so they can choose the one that best suits their needs.