When hair starts to fall from chemotherapy, many people choose to get a wig to feel more comfortable and confident. Here’s an easy guide to help you or your loved one get started.
1. Decide What You Want
Think about:
- Length : short, medium, long
- Style : straight, wavy, curly
- Colour : closer to your natural hair or something new
- Budget : wigs can range widely in price
It helps to look at old photos to see what you liked before hair loss.
2. Know the Types of Wigs
There are two main types: synthetic and human-hair wigs
Feature
Synthetic Wigs
Human Hair Wigs
Appearance
Very natural (modern fibres look realistic)
Most natural look and movement
Styling
Pre-styled; keeps shape permanently. Heat styling only if “heat-resistant.”
Can curl, straighten, blow-dry like real hair
Maintenance
Low maintenance; wash and air-dry
Higher maintenance; needs styling and conditioning
Comfort
Lightweight, cooler, good for chemo-sensitive scalps
Heavier, warmer, may feel less breathable
Durability
4–12 months with regular use
1–3 years with proper care
Cost
More affordable
More expensive
Best For
Short-term use during chemo, easy daily wear
Long-term wear, patients who want maximum realism
For most patients undergoing chemotherapy, high-quality synthetic wigs are comfortable and easy to manage.
3. Measure Your Head Size
Most wig shops will help measure your head, but you can also do it at home.
You’ll need:
- A soft measuring tape
- Measurement around your head (like a headband)
Sizes usually come in small, medium, large.
4. Visit a Wig Shop, Price range in Singapore
You can try wigs in person and see what feels comfortable.
In Singapore, many shops have private rooms, especially for cancer patients.
Additional services that maybe offered
- Private fitting rooms
- Adjustments and trimming
- Care instructions
- Soft wig caps (for comfort)
- If you opt for affordable synthetic wig: target ~S$200–500.
- If you go for standard human hair medical wig: target ~S$300–S$1,000+ depending on length, brand, custom fit.
- If you choose premium custom human hair medical wig: expect ~S$1,500+ upwards (as local shops show) for full custom or “medical-grade” wig.
- Synthetic or shorter/less custom wigs are quite adequate during chemotherapy hair loss phase.
5. Consider Hospital or Cancer Support Groups
Some hospitals or support groups offer:
- Discounted wigs
- Free wig-loan programmes
- Wig libraries
- Donations from past survivors
Financial Aid & Support Options
- The Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) in Singapore offers a Wig Loan Programme: cancer patients can borrow a high-quality wig at no cost. Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF)+1
- Medical social workers at public health institutes can assist with the cost
6. Get the Right Accessories
To make wigs more comfortable:
- Wig cap (soft layer under the wig)
- Anti-slip band
- Special shampoo for wigs
- Stand or hanger for storing the wig
7. Care for the Wig
Synthetic wigs:
- Wash every 2–3 weeks
- Let them air-dry
- Keep away from heat (no hairdryers or straighteners)
Human hair wigs:
- Treat like real hair
- Use heat styling if you want
- Need more frequent maintenance
8. Don’t Forget Alternatives
Some patients prefer:
- Headscarves
- Soft caps
- Turbans
- Going without a wig
There is no right or wrong, just what makes you or your loved one feel comfortable!