Chemotherapy patients often talk about the emotional impact that comes with losing their hair during treatment. But many don’t anticipate the physical effects—like trying to stay warm when your head is bare. Treatments, infections and cancer itself often play a role in disrupting your body temperature. Add in chemotherapy-induced hair loss, known medically as alopecia, and you may be looking for ways to cover up. Many patients have found that headscarves help, offering both comfort and style.
How to tie them?
To help, Diana Milton, a Stylist and Licensed Cosmetologist at our hospital in Tulsa, offers tips on stylish, comfortable and easy-to-learn ways to tie and wear a headscarf. “Your scalp often becomes really sensitive when you lose your hair due to chemotherapy,” she says. “It may feel like a sunburn or too-tight ponytail. Try applying some aloe to your scalp and then tying on a cotton, bamboo or silk headscarf. Headscarves provide a cool, comfortable feel while also keeping in warmth.”
Milton says a wig will help keep your head covered and warm, too, but sometimes, wigs can become too hot. If you’re looking for something to simply tie on and wear around the house, a headscarf is a popular option. Plus, Milton says, you can wear a headscarf multiple ways, employing various styles.
