When you're already dealing with the enormous task of going through cancer treatment, working out what to put on your head shouldn't feel like another mountain to climb. But when you've never had to think about it before, the options — chemo hats, headscarves, turbans, wigs — can feel genuinely overwhelming.
I've been helping people through this since 2008, and these are the tips I find myself coming back to again and again.
Start with just one
If you want to be prepared before hair loss happens, buy one hat first. Just one. Something soft, something in a colour you feel comfortable in. Having it ready gives you peace of mind without committing to a whole wardrobe.
Once your hair has gone, you'll have a much clearer sense of what you actually need — what feels secure, what suits your face, what you can put on easily when you're tired. Trying on hats with hair is a completely different experience to trying them without.
Choose natural fabrics
Your scalp will likely be more sensitive during treatment than it's ever been. Bamboo, cotton jersey, cotton lawn — these are the fabrics that feel kindest. Avoid anything synthetic next to the skin, and steer clear of rough seams or thick elastic that might create pressure points on a bare scalp.
All of our hats and headscarves are made from 100% cotton or bamboo for exactly this reason.
Don't default to neutral
It's natural to reach for black, grey or cream. But a few sessions into treatment, your skin tone can shift and those colours can wash you out and make you look and feel less well than you are. A warm colour like a soft blush, an earthy terracotta, or a gentle olive can give you a real lift. You don't have to go bold — just avoid cold or very dark neutrals if you can.
Think about what you'll actually need it for
A hat that works perfectly for a hospital appointment might not be right for sleeping in, and the one you love for going out might not be what you want at home on a tired day. Most people end up with two or three different styles for different moments. A simple, soft sleep hat is often the most used thing in the collection.
Get some help
You don't have to figure this out alone. We offer free video consultations where you can see the full range, ask questions and get honest advice. We also help you join a free online head scarf tying session with the brilliant team at Headwrappers or Look Good Feel Better, which are a wonderful way to learn new styles and connect with others going through the same thing.
If you'd like to chat through the options, please do get in touch. We're always happy to help.
