Advice Wigs or Hats/Scarves?
I know the answer is not to worry what others think, but I would like any thoughts/advice you'd be willing to share. Thanks!
Julie
Comments
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Me too!
I too absolutely hated a wig and only wore it a few times. I also did not like hats or scarves....just me. My grown children and grandchildren(3-10 years) never worried about it at all...even when I picked them up from school. My husband would have been happier I think, had I worn a wig. I felt quite happy bald and became used to seeing myself in a mirror with no hair.
Only you can make the decision and who cares what others think. Good luck with your choice.0 -
Wigs?sausageroll said:Me too!
I too absolutely hated a wig and only wore it a few times. I also did not like hats or scarves....just me. My grown children and grandchildren(3-10 years) never worried about it at all...even when I picked them up from school. My husband would have been happier I think, had I worn a wig. I felt quite happy bald and became used to seeing myself in a mirror with no hair.
Only you can make the decision and who cares what others think. Good luck with your choice.
I bought 2 wigs shortly after I started chemo, but wore a wig only twice (for work meetings). I wore my scarves the rest of the time as I was not comfortable going out without something on my head. The scarves made me feel a little more dressed up and 'put together'.
Best of luck with the rest of your treatments. Jane0 -
Hey Julie,
I was one of the lucky ones, my hair didn't completely fall out. I did buzz it short though. I wore mostly baseball caps when I went out. Also, if you go to www.franceluxe.com. In the upper right hand corner click on "Good Wishes". That will tell you how to get a beautiful silk head wrap or scarf. I loved mine.
xoxo,
Jean0 -
Hi Julie,Jean 0609 said:Hey Julie,
I was one of the lucky ones, my hair didn't completely fall out. I did buzz it short though. I wore mostly baseball caps when I went out. Also, if you go to www.franceluxe.com. In the upper right hand corner click on "Good Wishes". That will tell you how to get a beautiful silk head wrap or scarf. I loved mine.
xoxo,
Jean
I don't do wigs.. Never even ordered one. My hair started falling out about two weeks after my first treatment. After I buzzed it I wore baseball caps until I was bald. I then added a bandana underneath. It was fun, I could color coordinate my hats and scarves with my outfits. As of two weeks ago, I ditched my ball caps. My hair is about half inch long and nice and thick (4 months post chemo).
You need to get yourself a pink (breast cancer) baseball cap. This was my favorite, and wearing that out in public with my do-rag underneath brought me smiles from so many strangers. I've always admired woman that I saw out grocery shopping with ball caps on over a bald head. I would smile to them but then move about my business. I admired them for being so courageous and not hiding their personal battle. What strength.... So when it happened to me, I modeled myself after these women and I too took that route. I guarantee next time I see one of these women in the the stores, they will be getting more then just a casual smile from me. They might be surprised by the hug they are about to receive.
Good luck Julie, only you know your comfort level. I wasn't shy in hiding my personal battle and it made me stronger through the outpouring of my family, my friends, my community and even total strangers.
Hugs,
Lorrie0 -
Julie,butterflylvr said:Hi Julie,
I don't do wigs.. Never even ordered one. My hair started falling out about two weeks after my first treatment. After I buzzed it I wore baseball caps until I was bald. I then added a bandana underneath. It was fun, I could color coordinate my hats and scarves with my outfits. As of two weeks ago, I ditched my ball caps. My hair is about half inch long and nice and thick (4 months post chemo).
You need to get yourself a pink (breast cancer) baseball cap. This was my favorite, and wearing that out in public with my do-rag underneath brought me smiles from so many strangers. I've always admired woman that I saw out grocery shopping with ball caps on over a bald head. I would smile to them but then move about my business. I admired them for being so courageous and not hiding their personal battle. What strength.... So when it happened to me, I modeled myself after these women and I too took that route. I guarantee next time I see one of these women in the the stores, they will be getting more then just a casual smile from me. They might be surprised by the hug they are about to receive.
Good luck Julie, only you know your comfort level. I wasn't shy in hiding my personal battle and it made me stronger through the outpouring of my family, my friends, my community and even total strangers.
Hugs,
Lorrie
I'm sorry, I don't remember which chemo cocktail you're doing....I did 4 rounds of Taxotere/Cytoxan, and hair typically falls out around Day 14-16 with that cocktail, so my hair was also pretty much gone before my 2nd treatment.
Every woman has her own feelings and ways of dealing with hair loss. For me, the biggest thing was that there was no way I was going to worry about making anyone other than me comfortable -- chemo itself was hard enough, I wasn't going to try to fuss with hot, itchy wigs, too, and I figured -- if I can get used to having no hair, then other people can get used to it, too!
So I didn't wear anything on my head most of the time -- at work, church, running errands, shopping, doctors' appointments, etc. I did chemo in the middle of a San Fernando Valley summer, so being cold wasn't a problem. I did try to get outside to take walks as much as I could, and you need to be very careful not to get any sun on that tender little scalp, so I had fun collecting lots of cute hats to wear when I was outside. I got most of them from the ACS' store, tlc (tlcdirect.org) -- they have great prices and customer service, and I liked knowing I was supporting the ACS.
Traci0 -
As many said it is a
As many said it is a personal choice. I wore my wig for special occasions and that was about it. I went bald while I was home, answered my door bald to anyone who knocked, but my head covers of choice were scarfs. I bought 10 different colors and designs at Walmart for a dollar each and they became my fashion statement so to speak. They were very comfortable for me. I'm not a hat person but have seen that look as well. Be comfy.0 -
Julie--you sound like menatly15 said:As many said it is a
As many said it is a personal choice. I wore my wig for special occasions and that was about it. I went bald while I was home, answered my door bald to anyone who knocked, but my head covers of choice were scarfs. I bought 10 different colors and designs at Walmart for a dollar each and they became my fashion statement so to speak. They were very comfortable for me. I'm not a hat person but have seen that look as well. Be comfy.
I had two wigs--wore one once to a wedding and then the other one time as well. I hated them--I felt like I was wearing a dead animal on my head--or that I was in a Halloween costume. Just wasn't me. I had more fun wearing pretty, funky, colorful scarves. I learned to tie them in different ways and match them up with outfits. Like Natly, at home, I usually went "au naturel"--it just felt so much more comfortable. One time I completely forgot I was topless and answered the door for the UPS man. He didn't even bat an eye! Made me feel so good.
Good luck to you--and do what makes you comfortable. There are no rules or regulations here.
Hugs, Renee0 -
Hated it
I remember crying when I tried on my wig, because I thought it looked so much like the hair I used to have. I just had to have that wig, cause then I'd be normal again. Well, I got the wig and HATED it. It was hot, the style didn't let me push it out of my face like my hair did, it was itchy and it gave me headaches. I wore the dumb thing twice. After that I stuck to scarves, turbans, and baseball caps. At home I was bald all the time, except when guests came,
Wear whatever is comfortable to you. I'm sure your kids will adapt easily, especially at home.
Remember, as much as this sucks (and it does), you're hair will come back and you'll be healthier when it does.
marge0 -
I have worn my wig 4 times
I have worn my wig 4 times now and still don't like wearing it, but there are times when it is easier for those who are with me. But as soon as I get to the car, the wig is off and the baseball cap is on. I drive bald because I cant stand the bill on the cap.
I found that my kids got use to me being bald the first go round and were surprised when I purchased the wig this time.
Wear whatever makes you comfortable.
~Carol0 -
bandanas
Julie,
My chemo was during the winter months, I started in October, so I needed something for warmth. Mostly bandanas and beanies. Now that it is getting warm, I often don't wear anything. My hair is about 1/2" long so it's not so surprising to people.
What ever you choose gets easier as you get used to it.0 -
I wore my wig twice. I
I wore my wig twice. I mostly wore hats, it was winter and cold. The hat was easy, just pull on the one that matched and go...I didn't even have to figure out how to tie it.
Yes, a hat or a scarf is like a sign on your head that says "I'm in treatment" or "I have cancer". People I know (like at the kids schools) asked what was going on, how I was doing, or how they could help. Strangers usually smiled, kids sometimes looked a long time. You'll occasionally get the person who wants to say something kind and ends up putting their foot in their mouth...but I figure that's their problem.
It does take some strength and courage to deal with the variety of reactions you will get. But I would think the reactions/comments will be no better or no worse than the reactions/comments you get about your middle child...some people will be sincere and eloquent, some people will look, and some will say something thoughtless/hurtful.
Good luck with your treatment.
Hugs,
Linda0 -
Thank you for sharing your storiesGabe N Abby Mom said:I wore my wig twice. I
I wore my wig twice. I mostly wore hats, it was winter and cold. The hat was easy, just pull on the one that matched and go...I didn't even have to figure out how to tie it.
Yes, a hat or a scarf is like a sign on your head that says "I'm in treatment" or "I have cancer". People I know (like at the kids schools) asked what was going on, how I was doing, or how they could help. Strangers usually smiled, kids sometimes looked a long time. You'll occasionally get the person who wants to say something kind and ends up putting their foot in their mouth...but I figure that's their problem.
It does take some strength and courage to deal with the variety of reactions you will get. But I would think the reactions/comments will be no better or no worse than the reactions/comments you get about your middle child...some people will be sincere and eloquent, some people will look, and some will say something thoughtless/hurtful.
Good luck with your treatment.
Hugs,
Linda
Ladies,
Thank you all for sharing your stories/thoughts/wisdom. I braved up yesterday and went to chemo with my scarf on, then kept it on the entire day even out in front of my neighbor friends. I think that was the hardest part, experiencing it for the first time, especially in front of those who know me. But it gave me courage and I felt SO much more comfortable. Getting mostly positive feedback helped too (one didn't comment which felt awkward but that's okay too!). And I had a talk with my oldest about how important it is for me to be comfortable. He was understanding, and I got the OK from him to wear the scarves. ; He's almost 13 so I understand his feelings, but I'm proud of him for understanding mine.
Thanks again ladies. I'm so glad to have your support!
Hugs!
Julie0 -
Linda, you are so rightGabe N Abby Mom said:I wore my wig twice. I
I wore my wig twice. I mostly wore hats, it was winter and cold. The hat was easy, just pull on the one that matched and go...I didn't even have to figure out how to tie it.
Yes, a hat or a scarf is like a sign on your head that says "I'm in treatment" or "I have cancer". People I know (like at the kids schools) asked what was going on, how I was doing, or how they could help. Strangers usually smiled, kids sometimes looked a long time. You'll occasionally get the person who wants to say something kind and ends up putting their foot in their mouth...but I figure that's their problem.
It does take some strength and courage to deal with the variety of reactions you will get. But I would think the reactions/comments will be no better or no worse than the reactions/comments you get about your middle child...some people will be sincere and eloquent, some people will look, and some will say something thoughtless/hurtful.
Good luck with your treatment.
Hugs,
Linda
Linda, you are so right about the comments. It took me a few years to learn how to deal with unwanted looks/comments regarding my son (fortunately the positive far outweigh the negative; most people are loving). :-) I found the best way to respond was just to tell them what a joy he is. I'm sure I'll find the courage in this situation as well. Thanks for your insight.
Hugs,
Julie0 -
Did them all.jewels5 said:Linda, you are so right
Linda, you are so right about the comments. It took me a few years to learn how to deal with unwanted looks/comments regarding my son (fortunately the positive far outweigh the negative; most people are loving). :-) I found the best way to respond was just to tell them what a joy he is. I'm sure I'll find the courage in this situation as well. Thanks for your insight.
Hugs,
Julie
But I wonly wore my wig to church because I felt hats etc. were too distracting while I was sitting up front in the choir loft. The rest of the time I had fun with hats in the fall and winter. I lost my hair last summer and was told by a friend going through the same process to get a yard of soft cotton jersey knit and cut it in half to make a "wrap". You tie it like a bandanna, then tuck the ends up in a knot. It's very comfortable and protects your head outside. I got some sidelong glances that felt very isolating but also had a store clerk ask me what I was in chemo for. She is a breast cancer survivor and promised to pray for me even though she had never met me before. There's a lot of good people out there too, just a couple stupid ones.
Prayers to you on your journey!0 -
Headware
Julie, I went straight for hats paired with scarves. You can buy linen hats at dormadesign.com or something very similar (just look under cancer hats online and it will pop up). I bought plain colors and matched with my own over the counter pretty but subtle scarves (some scarves look gaudy, personal choice of course, I admire those you go for color). I cannot tell you how many compliments I received. Linen is great for summer, the same company do the exact same hat in a cotton type fabric which is cooler than a lot of others. They are called full coverage hats (great in the beginning) and you feel very SAFE in them, no movement. Be careful of scanty hats, it takes some time to see what shape you suit. Then I bought a lot from headcovers.com for through the winter. Two dressy caps, one black and one in brown were fab and went with anything when cold. They actually looked trendy. During the day at home wore nothing, when popping out say to put out trash etc, pick up paper I had super comfy soft caps from headcovers.com again. In fact I also got one from them to go to the gym in. Good luck, if you order anything from above sites dont be afraid to return any you dont like, a had to a couple of times. Good luck. Roz0 -
Wigs
I may be in the minority here, but I had 4 wigs all were different styles and colors and I wore a different one every other day and had fun!! Yes it was uncomfortable at first to wear the wig, but in no time it didn't bother me at all. I wore knit caps at home or went "topless". One day I was blonde the next I was a red head. I did have one wig that I wore the most that looked a lot like my hair did before, but I liked to mix it up a little from time to time. I guess I decided that although it did suck to loose my hair, I wasn't going to let it stop me from enjoying life and trying to have fun. One day my little niece who was about 4 at the time came up to me at a family reunion. I had taken my wig off because it was hot. She told me that she liked it and wanted to know if she could have it when I didn't need it anymore. I ended up giving all of my wigs away (except the red one
) to different children I knew that asked for them. They are now playing dress up with them and looking fabulous!! It made me feel good to know that my wigs are being used by little girls that want to be princesses!!! 0 -
love my bandanas!Punkindo said:Wigs
I may be in the minority here, but I had 4 wigs all were different styles and colors and I wore a different one every other day and had fun!! Yes it was uncomfortable at first to wear the wig, but in no time it didn't bother me at all. I wore knit caps at home or went "topless". One day I was blonde the next I was a red head. I did have one wig that I wore the most that looked a lot like my hair did before, but I liked to mix it up a little from time to time. I guess I decided that although it did suck to loose my hair, I wasn't going to let it stop me from enjoying life and trying to have fun. One day my little niece who was about 4 at the time came up to me at a family reunion. I had taken my wig off because it was hot. She told me that she liked it and wanted to know if she could have it when I didn't need it anymore. I ended up giving all of my wigs away (except the red one ) to different children I knew that asked for them. They are now playing dress up with them and looking fabulous!! It made me feel good to know that my wigs are being used by little girls that want to be princesses!!!
Two dear aunts of mine sent me around a half dozen bandanas in different colors with "UConn Huskies" on them! I love them and now that the weather is warmer wear them all the time.
I wore my wig for work but was never really loving it. It was nice in winter though as it kept my head warm!
Laura0 -
I hated the wig!!
Like you, I tried the wig a few times and just roasted every time that I wore it. Eventually, I stocked up on baseball hats of various colors. About a month after my final treatment, I had a full covering of my own hair again and just went topless. There really is an end to all of this and the good thing is that your showers are a lot shorter for quite a while.... :>)
The funny thing is that once my treatment ended, I held a garage sale and the first things to sell were my wig and all my hats!! Go figure...
Take Care
April Cregg0
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