hair loss, not identity loss

story by | violet deilke

Asa hair loss specialist and salon owner, I get asked for advice on how to help women going through treatment for cancer and dealing with hair loss. These are some of the most common question: q. My best friend was just diagnosed with cancer. What can I do to help her? a. The first thing you can do is continue to be her good friend. Spend time with her, listen to her and let her talk. Ask her what she needs help with. And of course, pray for her everyday and whenever you see her, give her a hug. Touch can be so healing. q. Her doctor told her she is going to lose her hair. What can I do to help and support her during this time? a. When it is time to prepare for losing her hair, encourage her to go early to look for a cranial prosthesis [wig]. Her hair loss specialist will be able to see her natural hair color and style and can design a prosthesis that will match her natural look. They will be able to fit, alter, cut and design the prosthesis just for her. q. Should she shave her head or just let it all fall out? a. Having gone through treatment myself for cancer and losing my hair, I can tell you what I did. When my hair started to fall out, I had my head shaved so I wasn’t watching my hair fall out day after day. This took some of the trauma and emotion away, it also helped me feel in control of the situation. This is a very difficult time for a woman and a time when they need a lot of support. If she is married, make sure her husband has someone to talk to as well.

It is also helpful to call ahead so the salon knows her situation and will be able to give her the best care possible. Lastly, go with and help her choose her new hair; one that has the most natural look with a natural scalp.

Other Info

Here are a few other helpful items I have learned regarding hair loss as a result of cancer treatment you may want to share this with her:

• Some insurance companies will pay for her prosthesis; either completely or partially.

• There are many choices for prosthesis [wigs] today:

· Human hair [with unbelievable quality]

Synthetic hair

· High grade Cyberhair [which you can swim in]

• The choices are so much better than they were even five years ago. It is amazing how natural a look we can achieve. Some prosthesis have a built in comfort cap, which makes the prosthesis cooler, less itchy and more comfortable to wear. In addition, the natural scalp helps to make the cranial prosthesis appear more real. Each of these are contributing factors in determining the cost. Going through cancer treatment is a very difficult time, but with the support of family and friends and our Lord, we can get through it. To find out more ways to help, go to my website www.centreforhairandwellness.com or feel free to call 218.236.6000.

Centre for Hair & Wellness is a full-service hair salon, day spa and hair loss center. Their salon & spa services nourish your spirit and your sense of who you are allowing you to relax, rejuvenate and be pampered. Their private and discreet hair loss center offers the region’s most beautiful and comfortable options for people of every age, from young children through adult men and women. They have been the area’s first choice for truly professional hair replacement advice and options for more than 20 years.

420 Center Avenue, Suite 14, Moorhead [Moorhead Center Mall north parking lot entrance] www.centreforhairandwellness.com 218.236.6000