While there are many different wigs available for chemo patients, finding one that won’t irritate your scalp can be challenging.
Fight scalp irritation while wigging it through chemotherapy with a wig by Tymeless Necessity Hair!
Stepping into the world of wigs during chemotherapy can be empowering, offering a shield of normalcy and bolstering self-esteem.
However, itchy scalp and irritated skin that often accompany wig-wearing can throw a wrench into your wig-wearing bliss.
Rani Chetty, the founder of Tymeless Necessity Hair, delves into the signs, causes, and practical tips to relieve these common challenges.
Plus, discover how investing in a wig from Tymeless Necessity Hair can transform your wig-wearing experience.
Stats Snapshot: Did you know that about 65% of individuals undergoing chemotherapy experience hair loss? Among them, a significant number encounter the discomfort of an itchy scalp and irritated skin while wearing wigs. This highlights the importance of addressing these issues for a smoother journey through chemotherapy.
Why Chemotherapy Causes Hair Loss
Chemotherapy treatments can lead to hair loss and scalp sensitivity, discomfort, and irritation. Here are reasons behind these effects:
Attack on Rapidly Dividing Cells
Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells throughout the body in their quest to fight cancer. Unfortunately, this includes hair follicles that undergo constant cell division to produce hair. As a result, these drugs interfere with the hair follicle’s ability to grow new strands, ultimately leading to hair loss.
Damage to Hair Matrix Cells
Within the hair follicles, hair matrix cells play a crucial role in hair growth. However, chemotherapy can cause damage to these essential cells, resulting in hair thinning and eventual loss. The disruption of the hair matrix’s normal functioning contributes to the challenges of maintaining a healthy scalp during treatment.
Reduced Blood Flow to Scalp
Chemotherapy treatments can disrupt the blood flow to the scalp, impeding the delivery of vital nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. The hair follicles struggle to maintain their health and function optimally without an adequate blood supply, leading to potential scalp irritation and discomfort.
Inflammation and Skin Sensitivity
Chemotherapy drugs can potentially induce inflammation within the body, including the scalp. Inflammation can trigger an immune response, causing increased scalp sensitivity and itchiness, redness, and discomfort. The inflammatory process further aggravates the already delicate state of the scalp during chemotherapy.
Weakening of Hair Shaft
Chemotherapy weakens the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to breakage and damage. Fragile hair strands are more likely to irritate the scalp, leading to additional discomfort. The weakened hair shaft exacerbates the challenges of managing an itchy and irritated scalp.
Dryness and Decreased Sebum Production
Chemotherapy treatments can decrease the production of sebum, the natural oil that helps moisturise and protect the scalp. As a result, the scalp becomes dry, lacking the necessary lubrication and prone to irritation. The diminished sebum production adds to the discomfort experienced while wearing a wig during chemotherapy.
Disruption of Hair Growth Cycle
The hair growth cycle follows a specific growth pattern, which includes rest, and shedding. However, chemotherapy disrupts this natural cycle, causing hair to prematurely enter the resting phase. Consequently, hair loss occurs earlier than expected, contributing to scalp sensitivity and discomfort.
Altered Immune Response
Chemotherapy can impact the immune system’s functioning, making the scalp more vulnerable to infections and heightened irritation. A compromised immune response can exacerbate scalp issues, leading to redness, itching, and inflammation.
Chemical Irritants in Treatment
Some chemotherapy drugs themselves can act as direct irritants to the scalp. These chemicals can cause redness, itching, and inflammation, adding to the discomfort experienced during treatment. The scalp becomes a battlefield between the potent medications and its delicate state.
Psychological Stress
The emotional and psychological stress of undergoing chemotherapy can have secondary effects on the scalp’s health. Stress can contribute to an imbalance in scalp health, increasing sensitivity, irritation, and discomfort.
10 Signs of Wig-Related Discomfort During and after Chemo
Unveiling the signs and causes behind an itchy scalp and irritated skin during wig wear, let’s uncover the issues that often leave us scratching our heads:
- Persistent Itching: If you find yourself constantly scratching your scalp, it may be a sign that your wig is irritating your skin.
- Redness and Inflammation: Noticeable redness and inflammation on your scalp can indicate that your wig is causing irritation.
- Soreness or Tenderness: If your scalp feels sore or tender to the touch, it could be a sign of irritation from your wig.
- Flaking or Dandruff: Excessive flaking or dandruff-like flakes on your scalp, even with regular washing, may result from your wig irritating your skin.
- Bumps or Pimples: Small bumps or pimples on your scalp, particularly in areas where the wig comes into contact, could be a sign of irritation.
- Burning or Stinging Sensation: A burning or stinging sensation on your scalp, especially after wearing your wig for an extended period, may indicate irritation.
- Excessive Dryness or Oiliness: Your wig may be causing your scalp to become excessively dry or oily, leading to discomfort and irritation.
- Hair Breakage or Loss: It could be a sign of irritation if you notice increased hair breakage or hair loss near the areas where the wig is attached or in contact with your scalp.
- Unpleasant Odour: If your scalp develops an unpleasant odour that persists despite regular washing, it may be due to irritation caused by your wig.
- General Discomfort: Overall discomfort or a feeling of unease on your scalp, even without specific visible symptoms, can indicate that your wig is irritating your skin.
“Numerous factors contribute to an itchy scalp and irritated skin whilst wearing a wig during chemotherapy. However, the primary cause lies in the scalp’s sensitivity due to chemotherapy treatments, leading to dryness and inflammation,” explains Rani.
“Furthermore, wearing a wig for extended periods without proper scalp care and hygiene can exacerbate discomfort. The materials used in wig construction, such as synthetic fibres or adhesives, may also trigger skin irritation.”
Choosing Wigs for Chemo patients
When selecting wigs for chemo patients, it’s essential to consider the wig base to ensure optimal comfort for your sensitive scalp. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Breathable Materials: Look for wigs made with breathable materials, such as lace or mesh caps, to allow airflow and reduce scalp irritation.
Hypoallergenic Fibres: Opt for wigs made with hypoallergenic fibres that are gentle on the skin and less likely to trigger allergies or irritation.
Seamless Construction: Choose wigs with seamless construction to minimise friction and prevent further irritation on the scalp.
Adjustable Straps: Wigs with adjustable straps offer a customised fit, allowing you to find the perfect balance between comfort and security.
Wig Liners, Wig Grips, and Wig Cushions: Consider using wig liners or cushions made of soft, hypoallergenic materials to provide extra protection and comfort for your scalp.
Wig Caps: Experiment with different types of wig caps, such as open caps or caps with silicone strips, to find the one that feels most comfortable and soothing on your scalp.
Lightweight Options: Unlike some heavy wigs for chemo patients, lightweight wigs are less likely to weigh down on your scalp and cause additional discomfort, making them a preferable choice during chemotherapy.
Proper Sizing: Ensure the wig fits properly without excessive tightness, as tight wigs can further irritate the scalp and lead to discomfort.
Professional Wig Fitting: Seek assistance from a professional wig fitter who can guide you in finding the right wig base and ensure a comfortable fit tailored to your needs.
Consultation with Wig Experts: Reach out to wig experts, like those at Tymeless Necessity Hair, who have experience in providing wigs for individuals undergoing chemotherapy. They can offer valuable advice and recommendations based on their expertise.
Investing in wigs especially designed for chemo patients with a scalp-friendly design and features that cater to your needs can significantly enhance your wig-wearing experience, allowing you to focus on your journey towards recovery with increased comfort and confidence.
Our wigs can be worn even with hair regrowth.
Tymeless Necessity Hair Provides Wigs for Chemo Patients Can Help
Investing in a wig from Tymeless Necessity Hair can significantly enhance your wig-wearing experience during chemotherapy. Our wigs are meticulously designed with high-quality materials, including breathable caps and hypoallergenic fibres, to minimise scalp irritation.
Tymeless Necessity Hair offers various wig options, encompassing lightweight and adjustable styles, ensuring a comfortable fit and reducing the likelihood of itchiness.
With our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we not only handcraft high-quality, realistic and 100 percent human hair wigs but also a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by individuals undergoing chemotherapy.
Undergoing chemotherapy and in search of high-quality wigs? Book your FREE consultation by WhatsApping us at 072 438 7617.
Tell us about your experiences with human hair toppers in the comments section below.
For more information, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.
To view our range of wigs for chemo patients, click here.
TYMELESS NECESSITY HAIR IS A PROUD PARTNER OF CANSA
READ MORE BLOGS BY TYMELESS NECESSITY HAIR HERE:
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HAIR EXTENSIONS
WHY CHOOSE A CUSTOM HUMAN HAIR WIG?
WHEN THERE’S A KINK IN YOUR HUMAN HAIR WIG’S KERATIN
Leave a reply