Wigs for Cancer Patients

Both can be excellent choices. Synthetic wigs are popular during chemotherapy because they are generally easier to care for, retain their style after washing and are available at many different price points. Human hair wigs offer very natural movement and greater flexibility for styling, but usually require more day-to-day care and are more expensive. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget and how much time you would like to spend styling and maintaining your wig.

The best wig for chemotherapy is one that feels comfortable, secure and easy to manage. Many people choose lightweight synthetic wigs because they keep their style and require relatively little maintenance. If your scalp becomes sensitive during treatment, cap construction can be particularly important. Monofilament, hand-tied and other soft, lightweight caps may feel more comfortable for some wearers. There is no single wig that is right for everyone, so consider your preferred style, fibre, cap size and how often you expect to wear your wig.

If you know that your cancer treatment is likely to cause hair loss, it can be helpful to choose your wig before your hair begins to fall out. This makes it easier to match your usual colour, style and volume if that is what you would like. It also gives you time to become familiar with putting on and wearing your wig. However, there is no need to rush. Choosing a wig is a personal decision, and you should do it when you feel ready.

If you need a wig because you have experienced hair loss as a result of cancer treatment, you may be eligible to purchase your wig without paying VAT. If you qualify, the VAT relief is applied when you buy your wig rather than being claimed back afterwards. You will need to make the appropriate eligibility declaration when purchasing. You can find full details in our guide to VAT relief on wigs or contact the Simply Wigs team if you would like help understanding the process.

For a sensitive scalp, look for a wig that is lightweight, well fitting and soft against the head. Many wig wearers prefer monofilament or hand-tied cap constructions because they can offer a softer feel and natural movement. A correctly fitted wig is also important, as a cap that is too tight can become uncomfortable during prolonged wear. Everyone's scalp reacts differently during cancer treatment, so if your scalp becomes particularly sore or irritated, speak to your cancer care team before continuing to wear your wig.

Neither is better - it really comes down to what works best for you and your lifestyle.

Synthetic wigs are a popular choice because they're easy to care for and they hold their style, even after washing. They're lightweight, ready to wear and ideal if you're looking for something that's quick and simple to manage.

Human hair wigs offer the most natural look and movement with the flexibility to style them just like your own hair. You can curl, straighten and restyle them to suit your mood but they do need a little more care to keep them looking their best. Just like natural hair, they can also react to damp or humid weather.

If you're unsure which is right for you, think about how often you'll be wearing your wig and how much time you'd like to spend styling and maintaining it. Our guide to synthetic wigs vs human hair wigs compares both options in more detail, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.

The cap construction plays a big part in how natural your wig looks and feels and there are a few different options to choose from.

Monofilament wigs have a fine mesh panel at the crown that allows your natural skin tone to show through, creating the appearance of hair growing directly from the scalp. They also give you the flexibility to part the hair in different directions for a more natural finish.

Lace front wigs feature a sheer lace panel along the front hairline, helping to create a seamless look. They're a great choice if you like to wear your hair away from your face, as the hairline appears soft and natural.

For the most realistic movement and a lightweight feel, hand-tied wigs are individually knotted strand by strand. They're incredibly comfortable to wear and are often chosen by people with sensitive scalps.

If you're looking for something breathable and easy to wear, wefted (or capless) wigs are a fantastic place to start. They're lightweight, comfortable and remain one of the most popular choices for everyday wear.

If you'd like to learn more, Emma explains each cap construction in our guide to What is the best wig cap for you? You can also explore our dedicated guides to monofilament wigs and hand-tied wigs for a closer look at how they compare.

Determining which wig will suit you best depends on several factors, including your face shape, skin tone, personal style, and lifestyle. Decide what shape your face is. Oval, Round, Heart, Square, Diamond or Oblong. (You can easily do this by tracing the outline of your face in a mirror with lipstick or soap and observing the shape).

Check out our article below, which will offer you suggestions on what styles to try. Remember these suggestions are simply guidelines. If you find a style that suits you, then wear it! Ultimately, the most important thing is to try on different wig styles and see what you feel most confident and comfortable.

The right choice really depends on where you're experiencing hair loss and what feels most comfortable for you.

If your hair is thinning around the crown or parting, a hair topper can be a great solution. It clips securely into your existing hair to add natural-looking coverage and volume, making it ideal if you don't need the coverage of a full wig.

If your hair loss is more advanced or you'd simply prefer a complete, ready-to-wear style, a full wig may be the better option. Many people find it offers greater confidence and convenience particularly if they wear it every day.

Whichever option you choose, features such as monofilament tops and lace front hairlines can make a real difference to achieving a natural look. If comfort is your priority, especially if you have a sensitive scalp, a hand-tied cap is often well worth considering.

If you're still deciding which option is right for you, Becca explains the differences in our guide to wigs or hair pieces for thinning hair. If you'd like some personal advice, our friendly team is always here to help you explore the options and find the best solution for your needs.

Yes, absolutely. Many people wear a wig every day and with the right care, there's no reason why you can't enjoy wearing one as part of your daily routine.

There are a few simple things you can do to make everyday wear even more comfortable. Wearing a wig cap or liner can help keep your wig secure while adding an extra layer of comfort. If you have a sensitive scalp, bamboo liners are a particularly soft and breathable option.

It's also a good idea to remove your wig before going to bed and store it on a wig stand to help it keep its shape. If you wear a wig most days, rotating between two wigs can help reduce wear and extend the life of each one. If you tend to feel warm, a wefted or capless wig offers excellent ventilation, making it a comfortable choice for everyday wear.

For more helpful advice, take a look at our guides to 12 tips for wearing wigs everyday and How do I keep my head cool when wearing a wig? where you'll find plenty of practical tips to help you get the most from your wig.