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Pink October, hair loss and wigs – good to know

Pink October is the month when breast cancer awareness is highlighted around the world. In Sweden, Cancerfonden's Pink Ribbon campaign is at the centre, raising money for research and focusing on people living with the disease. For many people having cancer treatment, hair loss is one of the most visible and emotionally difficult effects. That is why we are using Pink October both to give away a wig and to gather what is good to know about wigs during cancer.

Why does cancer treatment cause hair loss?

Chemotherapy attacks cells that divide quickly. That includes the cancer cells, but also the cells in the hair follicles. This is why many people lose their hair, often a few weeks after the first treatment. How much hair you lose depends on the medicine and the dose. Radiotherapy can also cause hair loss, but only in the area being treated. For most people the hair grows back after treatment ends, and the new hair can sometimes have a different texture or colour than before.

Get your wig before your hair falls out

Our advice is to start looking at wigs before treatment begins. Then we can match the colour, length and style to your own hair, and you have time to get used to the wig at your own pace. Many people choose to cut their hair short when it starts to fall out, as it feels easier than watching long strands come loose.

Human hair or synthetic wig?

A human hair wig looks very natural, can be styled with heat and lasts a long time if cared for properly. A synthetic wig is easy to care for, keeps its style after washing and suits you if you want an easy everyday routine. During treatment the scalp can be sensitive, so a soft and light construction matters. Wigs with lace or a mono top give a natural parting and hairline and often feel airier on the head. We help you find the right model based on how you want to live with your wig.

Wig with a requisition

In Sweden, if you lose your hair because of illness or treatment, you can often get a requisition from your healthcare provider that covers all or part of the cost of the wig. How much the region pays and how often you can get a new wig differs between regions. We accept requisitions throughout Sweden, and many customers choose to pay the difference themselves to get a human hair wig or a different model. Read more on our page about wigs with a requisition.

Wig delivered to the hospital

If you are an inpatient in a hospital in Stockholm or Uppsala, we can deliver and fit the wig on the ward. First we have a free online consultation, and then we come to you. Read more about wigs delivered to the hospital.

Headwear as a complement

Many people use both a wig and headwear. A turban or a soft hat is comfortable at home, when you sleep or when your scalp is sensitive, while the wig is for when you want to feel like your usual self. See our tips on headwear during cancer.

How to care for your wig

Wash the wig with mild products made for wigs and let it air dry on a wig stand. A human hair wig needs nourishment just like your own hair, and heat protection if you style it. Store the wig on a stand or in its packaging so that it keeps its shape.

Free consultation

Whether or not you win, you are always welcome to a free consultation, online or in our salons in Stockholm and Uppsala. We have long experience of helping customers during cancer treatment and we take the time to listen.