Hair plays a significant role in shaping our identity, and there are various reasons that people turn to alternative hair options like wigs, toppers, and hair extensions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the diverse reasons individuals choose to wear these alternatives and shed light on how they can be more than just a fashion statement.
Medical Reasons:
When undergoing cancer treatments, hair loss is a common side effect. Look Good Feel Good have lots of resources on hair-loss and hair alternatives while going through treatment. They have found that wearing alternative hair pieces becomes a powerful tool in rebuilding self-esteem and restoring a sense of normalcy. Improved wig cap constructions, such as medical wig caps made with softer materials like silicon, offer relief to sensitive scalps during and after treatments. Head scarves and hats also provide warmth and comfort in this challenging time.
I work with Look Good Feel Better which offers complimentary workshops that give Canadians the tools and techniques to feel confident and empowered in their cancer journey. Register for one of their workshops here.
Alopecia:
Alopecia presents itself in various forms, with Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, and Alopecia Universalis being the main types. Wigs or toppers become essential for individuals dealing with different extents of hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or even the entire body. Understanding these conditions helps tailor the choice of alternative hair for maximum comfort and confidence.
Post-Covid Hair Loss:
Some individuals experience noticeable hair loss after recovering from illnesses like Covid. After experiencing illness or a period of stress, it’s common for individuals to notice increased hair shedding. This phenomenon is known as telogen effluvium and is often temporary. But here’s the good news: as the body recovers from the illness or stress, the hair growth cycle typically returns to normal, and the shedding decreases. Therefore, while it can be concerning to experience increased shedding after an illness, it’s generally a temporary condition and not a cause for long-term concern.
Genetic Hair Thinning:
For those facing genetic hair thinning, alternative hair pieces offer a solution. Whether it’s male or female pattern baldness inherited from family members, toppers can be worn to address specific areas of hair loss, providing a natural and comfortable appearance. Often my clients will try Rogaine, minoxidil, which is an over-the-counter hair loss treatment before turning to wigs and toppers.
Religious Beliefs:
Cultural and religious reasons also drive the choice to wear alternative hair. In some cases, married women may opt to cover their natural hair, choosing wigs or toppers as a respectful alternative. For example, in many orthodox Jewish communities, married women cover their hair as a symbol of modesty and privacy. This practice is often carried out through various means such as wearing hats, scarves, or wigs. The rationale behind this tradition is indeed rooted in the belief that a woman’s hair is a symbol of her beauty, which should be reserved for her husband and close family members.
Variety and Expression:
Embracing alternative hair solutions aren’t always about necessity; it can also be about fun and expression. Changing hair color or style without committing to permanent changes becomes possible with a switch of a wig. You’ll see it often with celebrity events and shows.
Hair Growth Challenges:
Some individuals struggle with growing their hair to desired lengths due to factors like fine texture or over-processing. Hair extensions offer a versatile solution to add length and volume, helping individuals achieve the desired look.
Whether for medical, genetic, or personal reasons, embracing these options is about empowerment and choice. Let’s normalize the use of alternative hair for all sorts of reasons, encouraging everyone to explore the exciting world of hair transformations. After all, it’s not just about covering up; it’s about discovering new facets of oneself and having fun along the way.
