| Hair loss | Will my hair grow back? | Hair, head & scalp care |
| Hats, scarves & wigs | Coping with hair loss | For children |
Losing your hair isn't easy, whether you're a child or an adult, and it takes a lot of courage to come to terms with it.
At times you're going to feel angry and depressed about losing your hair. It's bad enough to go through cancer treatment, but to lose your hair as well can seem like the last straw. It can also be a constant reminder that you have cancer. These reactions are quite common and normal. Your appearance is important and there are many things that you can do to help you feel good about yourself. It makes good sense to plan ahead about how you will deal with possible hair loss.
Talking about your feelings can be a helpful way of dealing with many of the emotions you experience. Depending on who you feel comfortable with, talk to a close friend or relative, your doctor or nurses, or maybe someone who has already experienced hair loss.
You may also find it difficult to cope with other people's reactions to your hair loss. If you notice that other people are ill at ease or awkward about raising the subject, you may find it easier if you can start talking about your hair loss first.
Try not to lose contact with people during the time you are losing your hair. By keeping in touch with friends, your adjustment to your new situation can seem less traumatic.
Talk to your doctor, nurse or social worker about the treatment you are having and possible side effects. They may be able to put you in touch with someone who has been through a similar experience.
Your wig supplier will be able to give information on caring for your wig, tips for holding it in place and advice on minimising practical problems.
Hairdressers and beauty therapists can give helpful advice on using make-up and accessories to minimise the appearance of hair thinning or hair loss.
Milliners in the larger hat shops and department stores are often willing to discuss hats and scarves and provide a private area for fittings.
Contact the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20 if you want to talk to a nurse counsellor or for information about services and resources available in your local community.
