A head scarf can be one of the most versatile and beautiful things you wear during chemotherapy. But if you've never tied one before, it can also feel a little intimidating. Where do you start? Which fabric is kindest to a sensitive scalp? And how do you stop it from looking like you've just wrapped a bandage around your head?
I've been helping people choose the right headwear since 2008, and head scarves are one of the things I get asked about most. Here's everything you need to know.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Fabric is the most important decision you'll make. During chemo your scalp is more sensitive than usual, so anything rough, synthetic or too warm will feel uncomfortable.
Our head scarves are made from 100% cotton — either cotton jersey (stretchy and forgiving), cotton lawn (lightweight and beautifully soft) or cotton poplin (slightly more structured but still very gentle). All three are breathable, hypoallergenic and kind to sensitive skin.
Some people also like bamboo scarves and turbans for the same reasons. Bamboo is extraordinarily soft and helps regulate temperature, which can be a real bonus if you're experiencing hot flushes alongside treatment.
In general, avoid wool and synthetic fabrics directly against the scalp.
Choosing the Right Size and Style
Our cotton head scarves fit head circumferences of approximately 54–60 cm. The two main styles to choose between are:
- Square scarves: the most versatile option. You can tie them in dozens of different ways, which means you can change your look as often as you like. We have a free scarf-tying guide on the site and run free online scarf-tying sessions through our Headwrappers/Look Good Feel Better partnership.
- Pre-tied/pre-shaped scarves: designed for people who want the look of a beautifully tied scarf without the fuss. These are pre-shaped to fit your head, so you simply put them on, wrap the ends over and tie them at the back. Our butterfly print pre-tied scarf is one of the most popular things we sell.
Three Simple Ways to Tie a Square Scarf
The Classic Wrap: Fold the scarf into a triangle. Place the flat edge along your forehead, bring the two pointed ends behind your head, cross them over the back point and tie them securely at the back.
The Turban: Place the middle of a rectangular scarf at the nape of your neck, bring the ends forward, cross them over each other, twist them together and wrap them around your head. Tuck the ends under at the back or side.
The Side Knot: Fold the scarf into a wide band. Wrap it around your head and tie a knot or bow at the side. This works really well with cotton jersey scarves as they have a bit of stretch to them.
Caring for Your Head Scarves
Our cotton scarves are easy to look after. Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, or put them on a cold gentle machine cycle in a mesh laundry bag. Lay them flat to dry rather than tumble drying, and they'll keep their shape and softness wash after wash.
A head scarf isn't just a practical solution. It's a way of choosing how you present yourself to the world during one of the hardest things you might ever go through. If you'd like help finding the right scarf for you, please do get in touch — we're always happy to help.
