Rooted in Strength

Look Good Feel Better Workshops

If you're going through cancer treatment in the UK, there's a charity you should know about. Look Good Feel Better runs free workshops that help people manage the visible side effects of treatment, and they've been doing it here since 1994. Ask anyone who's been to one and you'll get the same two responses. First, that they nearly didn't go. Second, that it was one of the best afternoons of their whole treatment. What they actually do Look Good Feel Better runs group workshops led by trained beauty and wellbeing professionals who volunteer their time. The sessions cover the practical things that fall through the cracks in cancer care; How to look after skin that's changed, what to do about eyebrows that have vanished, and how to feel like yourself again. What's more, they're completely free. The charity works hard to keep it that way, funded by the beauty industry and by donations. The sessions on offer There's a decent range of sessions available, so it's worth looking at what suits you: •      Skincare and make-up, the flagship workshop, covering how to care for changed skin and create a natural look •      Wigs, brows and lashes, which is the one to book if you're dealing with hair loss •      Hair loss and scalp care •      Hand and nail care, since nails take a real battering during treatment •      Styling for confidence, led by style experts, covering colour, shape and dressing a body that's changed •      Gentle exercise and mindfulness •      Men's wellbeing sessions, hosted by barbering experts, covering shaving, sore skin and scarring •      Young adult sessions, aimed at a younger crowd who often feel out of place elsewhere The goody bag Let's talk about the bag, because it's genuinely lovely and it's the thing everyone remembers. Go to an in-person workshop and you'll be given a bag of full-size skincare and make-up products to use during the session and take home. Not samples. Proper products, donated by the beauty brands that support the charity. The bags are pre-packed, so you can't choose what's in yours, and supply depends on what's been donated. If you have allergies or you're particular about what goes on your skin, you can bring your own products to use in the session, nobody will mind. The bag isn't really the point, mind. It's just a very nice extra on top of an afternoon where someone treats you like a person rather than a patient. What actually happens on the day The workshops run for up to two hours. In-person groups are small, usually eight to fifteen people. Online groups are bigger, and the hair sessions and exercise classes can run to eighty or so. You do your own make-up. The volunteers are there to guide you, show you techniques and step in if you're struggling, but nobody is going to give you a full makeover while you sit there. That's deliberate. You're learning skills you can use at home on a Tuesday morning when nobody's watching. Most people arrive nervous and almost nobody stays that way. The thing everyone says afterwards is that it was the first time in weeks they'd been in a room where nobody talked about cancer. You're allowed to leave it at the door. Who can go Anyone with a cancer diagnosis. Women, men and young adults, and the workshops are open to everyone regardless of gender identity. The skincare and make-up, hand and nail care and styling workshops are a one-off, one per person per diagnosis. That does mean you can't book a refresher a few months later, though the charity has a library of free tutorials on their website you can use any time. If your cancer returns, get in touch with them directly rather than assuming you can't come back. In person or online Both. In-person workshops run in hospitals, cancer care centres and partner venues across the UK. Virtual workshops run over Zoom, so you can join from your sofa on a day you don't fancy leaving the house. The trade-off is the goody bag, which comes with the in-person sessions. If you're well enough to travel, the in-person version is worth the effort for the room full of people as much as the products. A few practical things to know •      Book in advance through the Look Good Feel Better website, and you can also ring them on 01372 747 500 •      Turn up on time, as sessions start promptly and there's only a short grace period before the door closes •      Everything is provided, though you can bring your own foundation and concealer if you have shades you love, plus your own brushes if they're clean •      Bring a pen and paper if you like taking notes, and you'll be given a leaflet covering what was taught •      You can't bring a friend or family member, since the space is kept for people with a diagnosis, so ring ahead if you need a chaperone for a specific reason like translation •      Tell them about any accessibility needs when you book and they'll do their best What they can't help with They're upfront about this, and it's worth knowing. Look Good Feel Better aren't medically trained, so they can't tell you which products are safe for your particular treatment. That's a question for your oncologist or cancer nurse specialist, who can look at your history and advise on anything you should avoid. They also can't recommend wig shops, hairdressers or microblading artists. For hair specifically, they point people towards Cancer Hair Care, who offer one-to-one support. Where we fit in We're not connected to the charity in any way. We just think more people should know they exist, because the number of customers who tell us they'd never heard of Look Good Feel Better until someone mentioned it in passing is frankly too high. If you go to a brows and lashes session and come away wanting to practise what you learned, we stock false eyelashes and eyebrow pencils chosen for people going through treatment.  Go, if you can The most common thing we hear is some version of "I almost didn't bother". People talk themselves out of it because they feel too rough, or too self-conscious, or because putting on make-up feels frivolous when you're seriously ill. It isn't frivolous. Recognising yourself in the mirror does something for you that no amount of good advice can. And a couple of hours in a room full of people who understand exactly where you are turns out to be worth a great deal. Look Good Feel Better is a registered charity, number 1031728. Find workshops and book at lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk.   Frequently asked questions Is Look Good Feel Better free? Yes. All workshops and classes are free for anyone with a cancer diagnosis, funded by the beauty industry and donations. Who can attend a Look Good Feel Better workshop? Anyone with a cancer diagnosis. There are dedicated sessions for women, men and young adults, and the workshops are open to everyone. What's in the Look Good Feel Better goody bag? A selection of full-size skincare and make-up products donated by the charity's partner brands. Bags are pre-packed and given out at in-person workshops, so the contents vary depending on what's been donated. How do I book a Look Good Feel Better workshop? Book through their website at lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk, or ring 01372 747 500. Your cancer nurse or treatment centre may also be able to point you to a local session. Can I go to more than one workshop? The skincare and make-up, hand and nail care and styling for confidence workshops are a one-off per person per diagnosis. Free tutorials on their website are available any time.

What to Take to Your First Chemo Appointment: Checklist

Nobody tells you how long chemotherapy actually takes. You picture something quick and clinical, and then you find out you'll be sitting in a chair for four hours with a drip in your arm and nothing but a two-year-old magazine. Packing a bag is one of the few parts of this you get to control. It's worth doing properly, because a good bag turns a long, cold, boring day into something much more bearable. Here's what people who've done it tell us they were glad they brought. How long will you be there? Ask your unit before the day, because it varies enormously. Some treatments take an hour. Others take six or seven, once you add in blood tests, waiting for pharmacy and the drip itself. Assume it'll be longer than you were told. Pack for that and you'll never be caught out. Keeping warm This is the one thing everyone mentions. Chemo units are cold, the drugs go in cold, and sitting still for hours makes it worse. A light blanket or a big soft scarf, and there are plenty of people who take one from home purely because it smells right Warm socks, ideally a pair you can pull on over tights or with slippers Layers you can add and take off, because you may swing between freezing and boiling in the same hour A soft hat, which matters more than you'd think Your scalp loses a surprising amount of heat, and if your hair has started to go, a cold room feels very different. A bamboo or cotton chemo hat is breathable enough that you won't overheat and soft enough to sit against a tender scalp for hours. If you'd rather have a scarf, a pre-tied head scarf pulls straight on with no mirror and no fiddling in a hospital toilet. What to wear Think about where the line goes in. If you're having treatment through your arm, wear short sleeves or something with sleeves that push up easily. If you have a PICC line, a port or a Hickman line, you want a wide neckline or a button-front top so the nurses can reach it without you having to undress. Beyond that, comfort wins. Soft waistbands, nothing tight, nothing scratchy, and layers. Food and drink Most units offer tea, coffee and biscuits, but the choice is limited and the timings won't suit you. Bring your own water bottle, because staying hydrated genuinely helps and you'll drink more if it's sitting there. Pack a few snacks you actually like, plus something plain like crackers in case your stomach turns. Sugar-free boiled sweets or mints are worth a mention. Some drugs leave a metallic taste in your mouth, and something to suck on helps. Passing the time Four hours is a long time. Plan for it. A tablet or phone loaded up before you go, since hospital wifi is unreliable and you don't want to be fighting it Headphones, ideally with a long cable or good battery life A phone charger and a power bank, and this is the item people forget and regret most A book, a magazine or a puzzle book for when your eyes are tired of screens Something to do with your hands, like knitting or a crossword Audiobooks and podcasts suit people who feel too woolly to concentrate on reading. Comfort watching works too. This isn't the day for anything that demands your full brain. Comfort for skin and mouth Hospital air is dry, and some treatments make things drier still. Lip balm, which is the small item people are most grateful for Hand cream, fragrance-free if you can Tissues A little bottle of water spray or a fan if you get hot flushes The practical bits Your appointment letter and hospital number A list of any medicines you take, including anything you buy over the counter Your chemo helpline number, saved in your phone and written on paper A notebook and pen, because you'll be told a lot and you might not remember it Any anti-sickness tablets you've already been given Parking money or a card, and check whether your hospital offers free or reduced parking for cancer patients, as many do The notebook is worth taking seriously. Write your questions down before you go, and write the answers down while you're there. Nobody takes information in properly on day one. Can someone come with you? Usually yes, though space varies and some units limit numbers, so ring and check. If you can bring someone, bring them. Having a second pair of ears is genuinely useful, and the journey home is easier with company. You may also not be allowed to drive yourself home, depending on your treatment.  What to leave at home Anything valuable Strong perfume, on you or on anyone coming with you, because smells can be a real trigger Big meals with a strong smell, out of courtesy to everyone else in the room A packed schedule for the rest of the day Keep the day itself clear. Even if you feel fine afterwards, and plenty of people do, you don't want to be rushing anywhere. The bag you'll want by the end Once you've done one session you'll know exactly what you need, and most people end up with a permanent chemo bag that lives by the door. It gets refined every cycle. The blanket stays, the ambitious novel gets swapped for a puzzle book, and the snacks change completely. If someone you love is starting treatment and you want to help, putting this bag together for them is one of the kindest things you can do. There are gift ideas here if you're not sure where to begin. One last thought The first appointment is almost always the worst one, and not because of the treatment. It's the fear of the unknown that makes it hard. By the second session you'll know where to park, which chair you like, which nurse makes the good tea, and how long you've really got. Frequently asked questions How long does a first chemotherapy session take? It depends on your treatment. Some take an hour, others take six or more once blood tests and pharmacy waits are included. Your unit can give you a realistic estimate, and it's worth packing for longer. What should I wear to chemotherapy? Loose, comfortable layers. If you have a port or a line in your chest, choose a wide neckline or a button-front top. If treatment goes into your arm, wear sleeves that push up easily. Can I eat during chemo? In most units, yes. Bring your own snacks and a water bottle, because the choice on offer is usually limited and you'll want things you actually fancy. Should I wear a hat to chemotherapy? Many people do. Chemo units run cold, and a soft hat keeps your head warm without irritating a sensitive scalp. It's a personal choice rather than a rule.

When to get your hair cut after chemo

You've finished treatment. Somewhere around week three or four you run your hand over your head and feel something soft that wasn't there before. It's a genuinely lovely moment. Then comes the awkward bit. The fluff arrives at different speeds in different places, it may be a colour you've never had, and you have no idea whether to cut it, leave it, or hide it. Almost everyone asks the same question at this point. When can I get it cut? The short answer is that most people book their first proper haircut somewhere between three and six months after treatment ends. But the calendar in my view doesnt matter - what matters is how you feel. What regrowth usually looks like Everyone's timeline is different and depends on the drugs you have been given, your dose and your own hair. A rough guide, based on what most people tell us is: Weeks 3 to 6: soft fuzz starts to appear, patchy and often colourless Months 2 to 3: a proper covering, still very short and very soft Months 3 to 5: enough length for a short crop or a soft pixie, and this is where most first haircuts happen Month 6: roughly three inches for many people Month 12: often five or six inches, around chin length Hair grows about half an inch a month once it gets going. That's the same rate as anyone else's, which is why it feels so slow. You're just starting from a lower baseline. If you're months in and seeing very little, or your hair is coming back much thinner than expected, mention it to your team. It's worth raising rather than worrying about it alone. The fluffy stage, and why cutting too early can backfire There's a stage most people hit around two to three months where the hair is soft, wispy and standing up in all directions. It's the stage where you're most tempted to take scissors to it. Cutting into very fine regrowth usually makes it look thinner rather than tidier. Heavy layering or a sharply defined crop needs density to hold its shape, and at this point there isn't any yet. Most hairdressers who work with cancer patients will say the same thing. Wait a bit, and let it gain some weight. The exception is a genuine tidy-up. Cleaning up the neckline, softening round the ears and taking off a few fluffy tips is a small job that can make a big difference to how you feel. That's not really a haircut. It's a tidy-up, and you can have one much earlier. Signs you're ready Forget the number of months. Book your appointment when: You've got a reasonably even covering rather than patches The hair has some body to it and stays roughly where you put it Bits are starting to stick out or curl in directions you don't want The neckline or the area round your ears looks scruffy You want to, which is honestly reason enough What a good first cut actually involves Manage your expectations, because a good first haircut is subtle work. If you turn up at four months with a couple of centimetres, the appointment might take twenty minutes and look fairly subtle to everyone else. Your hairdresser will probably tidy the neckline, shape gently around the ears, take off any wispy ends and leave the top alone to build up. That's a proper haircut. It just respects where your hair is right now. If your hair has come back thicker and faster, there's more to work with and a soft pixie or a neat crop may be on the cards straight away. Finding a hairdresser you feel comfortable with This appointment carries more weight than a normal trim, and the right person makes an enormous difference. Ring ahead and say you've just finished chemotherapy. Ask whether they've cut regrowth before. A good salon will book you a quieter slot, give you a bit of privacy, and won't make a performance of it. If you'd rather not sit in a busy salon at all, plenty of stylists will come to your home. Your cancer centre or local support group can usually recommend someone who works with cancer patients regularly. Chemo curls, and why your hair looks like someone else's More than half of people find their hair comes back with a different texture. Straight hair returns curly, curly hair returns straight, and colour often shifts too. Lots of people get more grey than they had before, at least at first. This catches people off guard. You waited months for your hair and it belongs to a stranger. It usually settles. Texture and colour tend to drift back towards your old hair over the first year to eighteen months as the follicles recover. Some people find they keep a bit of the new wave, and a few decide they rather like it. While it's settling, a light leave-in conditioner and small trims every six to eight weeks will keep it looking intentional rather than in-between. Before you reach for the colour New hair is fragile. Cancer Research UK suggests holding off on permanent and semi-permanent dye, bleach, perms, chemical straightening and extensions for around six months after chemotherapy finishes. If your scalp has been sensitive or you're still recovering, check with your medical team first, and always do a skin sensitivity test even with natural products like henna. When you do colour, a trained hairdresser is a safer bet than a home kit. Covering up while you wait The months between finishing treatment and having a haircut you feel good about can be surprisingly hard. You're well again, and you still don't look like yourself. A soft chemo beanie sits neatly over short regrowth and works with a coat and a school run. A lightweight head scarf gives you a different option on the days you want a bit more. Both are seam-free and gentle on a scalp that's still tender. Plenty of our customers keep wearing theirs long after their hair's back, simply because they've grown fond of them. One last thing There's no right moment for that first haircut. There's only your moment. Some people book it the second they've got an inch, because sitting in a salon chair feels like proof they've come out the other side. Others wait until the hair is long enough to do something with. Both are fine. You've been through a great deal. This bit is allowed to be yours. Frequently asked questions How soon after chemo can I cut my hair? There's no medical reason to wait once your hair is growing. Most people find three to six months gives them enough to work with, though a tidy-up around the neckline can happen earlier. Should I shave the first regrowth to make it grow back thicker? That's a common belief but there's no evidence behind it. Shaving doesn't change how thick your hair grows back. Most people leave it be. Why is my hair curly after chemo? Texture changes are extremely common after chemotherapy and usually temporary. Most people find their hair drifts back towards its old texture over twelve to eighteen months. When can I dye my hair after chemotherapy? Cancer Research UK advises waiting around six months, as new hair is fragile. Check with your medical team first, and do a skin sensitivity test before any colour goes near your scalp.

Managing Nausea During Chemo. The Small Things That Help

Nausea is one of the side effects people worry about most before chemotherapy starts. The good news is that anti-sickness medicine has come a long way, and your team will give you something to take alongside your treatment. Most people find their sickness is manageable rather than constant. Everything below is the practical stuff and the bits nobody tells you on a leaflet. It comes from years of talking to customers who've been through treatment and told us what actually got them through the difficult days. Start with your chemo team, always Your oncology team or chemo nurse is your first call, not Google and not us. We sell hats and scarves, we're not medical people, and we'd never pretend otherwise. If your anti-sickness tablets aren't working, ring them. Don't wait until your next appointment and don't soldier on. There are several different types, and if the first one doesn't suit you, they can usually swap it for something else. People often feel they're making a fuss. You're not. This is exactly what the helpline number is for. Check with your team before you add anything new, even things that sound harmless like ginger capsules, peppermint oil or herbal teas. Some of them interact with treatment. Eat little, eat often An empty stomach can make sickness worse, which feels deeply unfair when eating is the last thing you fancy. Small amounts every couple of hours tend to sit better than three proper meals. Things people tell us worked for them: Dry crackers, plain toast or a few breadsticks first thing, before you even get out of bed Plain carbs like rice, pasta, potatoes and porridge Something salty, as crisps come up again and again in conversation Ice lollies and jelly, which count as fluid too If you can only face one thing for a fortnight, eat that one thing. Nobody is marking you on variety. Cold food is often kinder than hot Hot food gives off far more aroma, and smell is a huge trigger. A cold sandwich, a yoghurt or a bowl of cereal can be much easier to face than a cooked dinner. If you live with someone who can cook for you, ask them to do it with the kitchen door shut and a window open. Better still, ask them to plate yours up and let it cool. Lots of people find they can't be in the house while food is cooking but can eat it happily half an hour later. Sip slowly and keep sipping Drinking a lot in one go can bring nausea straight back. Small sips throughout the day work better. Keep a bottle or a glass within reach so you're not making a decision every time, you just drink because it's there. Cold drinks, fizzy water, weak squash and ice cubes all suit some people. Others go off water completely and find they need flavour. Both are normal. Smells will catch you out This is the one that surprises people. Perfume, washing powder, coffee, someone's aftershave on the bus. Any of it can turn your stomach over in seconds. A few things that help: Switch to a fragrance-free washing powder while you're in treatment Keep a window cracked open, or sit somewhere with moving air Ask family and friends to go easy on scent when they visit Carry something you find neutral or pleasant to sniff, like a clean cotton hankie Fresh air and gentle movement You don't need to be marching round a park. Sitting by an open window or in the garden for ten minutes shifts things for a lot of people. A slow walk to the end of the road and back can settle a queasy stomach better than lying still. Lying flat straight after eating tends to make sickness worse. Prop yourself up on pillows instead and give it half an hour. Give your brain somewhere else to be Nausea gets louder when you've got nothing else to think about. It's why 3pm on a quiet Tuesday can feel so much worse than a busy morning. Audiobooks and podcasts suit people who feel too rough to look at a screen. Puzzles, a familiar comfort programme you've seen a hundred times, or a phone call with someone who'll do most of the talking all help. Nothing demanding, this isn't the fortnight for a complicated box set! Stay comfortable from the neck up Feeling hot and clammy makes nausea considerably worse, and a lot of people find their head runs warm during treatment. A breathable chemo hat in bamboo or cotton jersey stays cool against the scalp and is easy to pull off in a hurry if you get a hot flush. If you're being sick, a pre-tied headscarf that pulls straight on beats anything you have to tie. You want something you can put on with one hand and no mirror. Learn the shape of your cycle By your second or third round, you'll start to notice a pattern. Most people find days two to four are the hardest, then things lift. Once you know your pattern, plan around it. Batch cook or stock the freezer before treatment day. Book visitors for your good days. Move the appointments and the shopping to the end of the cycle. Knowing when you'll feel rough takes some of the fear out of it. When to ring the helpline Call your chemo helpline or your team, day or night, if: You can't keep fluids down for more than a few hours You've been sick repeatedly and can't stop You feel dizzy, confused or unusually weak You have a temperature alongside the sickness Something feels wrong, even if it's not on any list You'll have been given a 24-hour number when you started treatment. Stick it on the fridge. It's there so you use it. A last thought Nausea passes. It won't feel like it on day three, but it does. Almost everyone who comes back to us months later says the sick days blurred into one and the good days came back faster than they expected. Be kind to yourself, eat the crisps, and ring the helpline when you need to. Frequently asked questions How long does nausea last after chemotherapy? It varies with the drugs you're on and how you respond. Many people find the worst is over within a few days of each session, then they pick up before the next round. Your chemo nurse can tell you what's typical for your particular treatment. Does everyone feel sick during chemo? No. Some people sail through with very little sickness, especially with modern anti-sickness medicine. Others struggle more. There's no way to predict which you'll be until you start. What foods are easiest during chemo nausea? Plain, cold and simple. Crackers, toast, rice, potatoes, yoghurt, ice lollies and salty snacks are the ones people mention most. Strong smells and rich food are usually harder. Can I take ginger for chemo sickness? Ask your oncology team first. Ginger helps some people, but it can interact with certain treatments, so it needs checking rather than assuming. Written for chemotherapyheadwear.com. Not medical advice. Always speak to your oncology team about side effects and medication.

Ideas For Tying A Hat & Headscarf Combination

How to avoid getting in a knot! With a little bit of practise you will be able to master each style effortlessly.  Some chemo head scarves are secured to a 100% cotton jersey hat so that the scarves do not slip off your head when your arms get tired.  Simply pop on the hat and that's the first step covered! STYLE 1 - LEVEL: EASY After you put the hat on, drape the chemo scarf over the head, leaving the two ends hanging either side by your shoulders.  Pick the ends up and tie them in a simple knot at the back.  This look is great for people who are used to longer hair because it simulates a ponytail at the back of the head.  STYLE 2 - LEVEL: EASY Fold the chemo scarf so that it creates a “band across the front of the head, pull the two ends towards the back and tie in a simple knot.  The folds give additional padding to the hair line and is suitable for those who feel exposed without the weight of their hair around the face. STYLE 3 - LEVEL: EASY After tying the ends of either of the above styles in a simple knot, tuck the ends back over upon themselves – this creates a bow-like style and helps keeps the ends shorter. STYLE 4 - MODERATE Fold the head scarf in three so it forms a band across the forehead and the two ends hang either side of your face.  Bring the two ends around the back of the head and tie firmly in a simple knot.  This will hold the scarf in place whilst you start twisting!  Take one end in turn and twist it so that it forms a tight rope like cord.  Then bring this around to the front of the head and tuck the end securely into the band at the front of the chemo hat.  Next, do the same with the remaining end.  You can secure this with a pin if you feel you need a bit of added grip. STYLE 5 - MODERATE Fold the scarf in three so it forms a band across the forehead and the two ends hang either side of your face.  Bring the two ends around the back of the head and tie firmly in a simple knot.  This will hold the scarf in place whilst you start twisting!  Take both ends and twist them around each other.  Keep twisting until the rope like cord starts to curl up into itself.  Next, twist the cord round as if creating a “bun” or rosette.  With the remaining ends of the chemo scarf, push them part the way through the centre of the rosette to secure it in place. 

How To Tie A Square Chemo Head Scarves

There are many ways to tie a head scarf, here are some of our favourites.  If you want a simple way to tie it, get a hairband and drape the fabric over your head, gathering the ends into a ponytail.  On days when you want to be more creative, take a look at some ideas below Scarf Tying Tips Getting to grips with tying a chemo headscarf can be frustrating. You need to build muscle-memory with your fingers and this can take time, but here are a few tips that might help make the process easier: Start learning when you have some quiet time to yourself. Make yourself a cup of tea/coffee and give yourself 20mins to just have a play and give some of the styles a go. Dont try learning how to tie a chemo headscarf when you are under time pressure or have visitors popping in and out, you will only get frustrated.   Use the weight of your arms to keep the fabric tension. There is no need to grip your headscarf tightly, just hold onto the ends and after you have crossed them over behind your head or tied a single knot, let them relax and use the weight of your arms to keep the fabric taught. This not only gives your arms a break (especially if you have had breast surgery), but it also helps you pause a little before moving onto the next steps   If tying the knots is a pain, use an elastic band or hairband (we recommend a hairband because elastic bands can be difficult to use). Sweep the ends together and tie them like you would do a ponytail. The benefit of tying your headscarf this way is three-fold; it helps you tighten your headscarf whenever you need to, you can take your headscarf off your head and put it back on without having to re-tie it, and you can also use the hairband to create a bow by passing the ends of your headscarf partially through a section of the hairband.   Style 1The Free Spirit Using a square chemo head scarf, fold it from corner to corner so it makes a triangle, then fold the long edge over a few times. Place the chemotherapy scarf on your head, the long part needs to be across the forehead and the pointed part of the scarf must be at the back of the head. To tie the scarf, pull both ends behind your ears around the back of the head. Style 2. The Classic Wrap This style gives full coverage and stays comfortable all day and works if you have a rectangular or square scarf. If starting with a square scarf, either fold it in half to make a rectangle, or a triangle - it works both ways! Place the scarf over your head so it’s even on both sides, with the front edge sitting just above your eyebrows. Cross the ends at the nape of your neck and pull them snugly (but not too tight). Bring both ends up to the front of your head and tie a firm knot.  Tuck the loose ends under the scarf for a smooth, tidy finish. Style 3. The Side Knot If you want something with a softer, more relaxed feel, try the side knot.  Fold your scarf into a triangle and place it over your head so the long edge sits across your forehead.  Bring the ends around to one side of your head just below your earlobe.  Tie them once, then twist the ends together and loop them into a small knot just above your ear, securing the ends by tucking them part of the way through the middle of your twisted knot. 

Yoga During Chemotherapy: Gentle Movement, Real Benefits

Exercise is probably the last thing on your mind when you're going through chemotherapy. But gentle movement — and yoga in particular — can make a real difference to how you feel during treatment, both physically and emotionally. That's not just anecdotal. There's good research behind it. Studies have found that gentle yoga during cancer treatment can reduce fatigue, improve sleep and help with anxiety. And unlike many things during this period, it's something you can control. What gentle yoga can do for you during treatment It helps with fatigue Counterintuitive as it sounds, gentle movement can actually reduce the tiredness that chemotherapy causes. When you rest completely, fatigue tends to build. When you move gently, even for just 20 minutes, your body responds by circulating oxygen more efficiently, which can leave you feeling more energised rather than more depleted. It supports your emotional wellbeing Treatment is stressful. The uncertainty, the appointments, the side effects, the way your body changes — it adds up. Yoga works directly on the nervous system through breathwork and slow, deliberate movement, and this has a measurable effect on anxiety and low mood. A lot of people find that an hour in a yoga class is one of the few times in the week when their mind quietens down. It helps you sleep Sleep disruption is really common during chemotherapy. Pain, discomfort, anxiety and the drugs themselves can all interfere with it. Regular gentle yoga (particularly the breathing and relaxation components) can help regulate your sleep patterns over time. It keeps your body moving Muscle weakness and stiffness can develop during treatment, particularly if you're less active than usual. Gentle yoga helps maintain the range of movement in your joints and keeps muscles from weakening unnecessarily. The key word is gentle — yoga for cancer patients looks very different from a standard yoga class. It connects you with other people Going through chemo can be an isolating experience. A yoga class — even online — puts you in a room (virtual or physical) with other people who understand what you're going through. That connection matters more than it might sound. What to be careful of Yoga is generally very safe for cancer patients, but there are a few things worth knowing before you start. Talk to your oncology team first. They'll be able to tell you if there are any specific reasons why yoga might not be suitable for you right now. Your yoga teacher will ask about your blood counts. Your platelet count needs to be high enough to exercise safely, and any surgical incisions need to be properly healed before you start. Listen to your body, every single session. Treatment affects you differently day to day. On the hard days, simply showing up and focusing on your breathing is enough. Hygiene matters during treatment. If attending an in-person class, use your own mat and props. Online classes sidestep this entirely. Stay hydrated. Drink water before and after your session. Where to start: a free online class with Mo Mo is an experienced yoga teacher who has trained specifically in teaching yoga for cancer patients. She isn't teaching a watered-down version of a standard class — she's teaching something built from the ground up for people in your situation. Mo runs free online yoga classes for cancer patients every Tuesday from 11am to 12pm. They're gentle, welcoming and a wonderful hour in the week. To join or find out more, email Mo directly: mo@yogaforcancernewforest.co.uk You don't need any previous yoga experience. You just need to show up.

Lidia by Design: Bamboo Chemo Hats with a Difference

Not all chemo hats are created equal, and the Lidia by Design collection is a perfect example of what's possible when someone designs specifically for the needs of cancer patients rather than adapting general fashion headwear. We're proud to stock this range, and our customers love it. Here's what makes it special. The fabric Lidia by Design uses bamboo fabric throughout, and if you haven't experienced bamboo against your skin before, it's a revelation. It's extraordinarily soft, often compared to cashmere in texture, and it has natural antibacterial properties that make it particularly kind to sensitive scalps. It's also excellent at regulating temperature — cool when you're warm, warm when you're cool — which makes it comfortable year-round. The design The Lidia by Design range includes turbans, hats, scarves and headbands. The styling is elegant rather than obviously clinical — these are pieces you'd choose to wear, not just pieces you'd settle for. The constructions are thoughtful too: no seams where they'd create pressure on a bare scalp, soft edges throughout, and a fit that stays comfortable all day. They fit head circumferences of 53–58 cm, which suits most adults comfortably.   Who is this range for? The Lidia by Design collection is a brilliant choice if: You're particularly sensitive to fabric and need the softest option available. You tend to run warm and want something that won't make you hotter. You want something that looks and feels more like a fashion choice than a medical necessity. You're looking for a special occasion piece as well as an everyday option. Browse the full Lidia by Design bamboo chemo hat collection in our shop, or get in touch if you'd like help finding the right style for you.

Wunderbrow for Cancer Patients: What It Is and How to Use It

For many people, losing their eyebrows is one of the hardest parts of chemo hair loss. The face you see in the mirror suddenly looks less like you, and that can be more unsettling than losing the hair on your head. Wunderbrow is one of the products we recommend most often, and it's stocked in our accessories range for a reason. Here's what you need to know. What is Wunderbrow? Wunderbrow is a brow gel that uses tiny fibres to create the appearance of full, natural eyebrows. Unlike a standard eyebrow pencil, which draws lines on the skin, Wunderbrow builds up a texture that mimics the look of real hair. The result is a much more natural finish — which matters a great deal when there's no actual brow hair to work with. Why it works for chemo patients Standard make-up isn't always well suited to the specific challenges of chemo. Wunderbrow has a few features that make it particularly useful: It stays in place for up to three days without smudging, which means you don't have to redo it every morning on a tired day. It's waterproof, which matters if you're getting hot or your eyes water during treatment. It works on bare skin — no natural brow hair needed as a base. It comes in several shades to suit different complexions. How to apply it Wunderbrow comes with a small spoolie brush. The key is to use it lightly and build up gradually — a little goes a long way. Use short, feathery strokes in the direction that brows naturally grow. Start from the inner corner of the brow and work outward. If you've never used a brow product before and aren't sure where to place your brows, a simple rule of thumb: the inner edge of the brow should sit roughly above the inner corner of your eye, and the arch should sit above the outer edge of the iris. You'll find Wunderbrow in our accessories section, alongside our Eylure C-Lash eyelashes — another product designed specifically for people who've lost their lashes during treatment.

Life Kitchen: A Free Cookbook Designed for Cancer Patients

One of the side effects of chemotherapy that doesn't get talked about enough is the change in taste. For some people, food stops tasting the way it should — metallic, flat, or just different in ways that are hard to describe. Eating becomes less of a pleasure and more of a chore, which is the last thing you need when you're trying to keep your strength up. Life Kitchen is a not-for-profit cookery school founded by chefs Ryan Riley and Kimberley Duke, both of whom lost their mothers to cancer. Ryan has spoken about watching his mother lose her sense of taste during treatment and feeling powerless to help. Life Kitchen was their answer to that. What's in the cookbook? The free cookbook contains 15 recipes built around three ingredients that research suggests help stimulate flavour even when taste is dulled by chemotherapy: Miso paste — umami-rich and one of the most effective flavour enhancers when taste is compromised. Spring onions — bring freshness and a gentle sharpness to dishes. Garam masala — adds warmth and complexity that cuts through the flatness chemotherapy can cause. The recipes are simple, practical and designed to be cooked by someone who might not have a lot of energy. They're not about being impressive — they're about making eating enjoyable again. How to get a copy The cookbook is free. Visit the Life Kitchen website (lifekitchen.co.uk) to download your copy or find out about their cookery classes. We'll keep this post updated if Life Kitchen release new resources. If you know of other free resources for cancer patients that we should feature, please get in touch at hello@chemotherapyheadwear.com.

Why a Chemo Headscarf Might Be Exactly What You Need

When people start thinking about headwear for chemotherapy, they often look at wigs first. And wigs can be wonderful. But for a lot of the women I speak to, headscarves end up being the thing they actually reach for every day.Here's why.They're kind to a sensitive scalpA well-chosen headscarf in soft 100% cotton or bamboo sits gently against bare skin. No clips, no wefts, no adhesive — just soft fabric. For a scalp that's tender during treatment, that matters a great deal.They protect you from the elementsIn summer, a cotton headscarf provides a layer of sun protection for a scalp with no hair to shield it. In winter, it adds warmth. And on a windy day — the kind where a sensitive bare scalp feels every gust — a scarf wrapped around your head makes a noticeable difference.They're easy to wearOnce you know one or two basic tying styles, a headscarf takes two minutes to put on. Our pre-tied chemo scarves take even less than that. They're pre-shaped so you just put them on, wrap the ends over and tie. No complicated folds, no pins, no frustration on a tired day.They're genuinely stylishThis matters more than some people give it credit for. Looking in the mirror and seeing something you actually like — in a colour or pattern that's you — changes how you feel about stepping out of the door. We choose our fabrics carefully, from beautiful designer cotton prints to simple jersey in rich, warm tones, and customers often tell us that their scarf became something they actually looked forward to wearing.They're affordableA good chemo headscarf costs significantly less than a wig and can be worn again and again. Having a few in different colours means you can change your look without breaking the budget.Not sure where to start?Take a look at our guide to choosing chemo head scarves, or browse the full range in the shop. We also run free monthly scarf-tying sessions with Headwrappers if you'd like some help learning how to tie them.

How to Protect Your Skin from the Sun During Chemotherapy

Most of us know to wear sunscreen in summer. But during chemotherapy, sun protection becomes genuinely important rather than just sensible — because treatment makes your skin significantly more sensitive to UV light, and sunburn can happen much faster and feel much worse than it normally would. Here's what to do to stay protected. Sunscreen: go higher than you think Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at minimum SPF 30 — though SPF 50 is a better choice during treatment. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, ears, neck, hands and the back of your arms. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you've been sweating or in water. Look for a fragrance-free formula, as scented sunscreens can irritate chemotherapy-sensitive skin. Cover up Clothing is your first line of defence. Lightweight, loose-fitting layers in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen cover the skin without overheating you. Long sleeves and a collar help protect your arms and neck. For your scalp, a hat with a proper brim is essential. Your scalp has no hair to protect it, which means it can burn very quickly. Our wide-brimmed summer chemo hats are made from soft cotton with breathable construction. Some have a loose weave that allows air to circulate, which is particularly helpful if you're feeling the heat. Some styles are also packable, which makes them easy to carry with you. Avoid the midday sun UV rays are strongest between roughly 11am and 3pm. If you can, plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon. If you do need to be outside during peak hours, seek shade wherever possible — but remember that shade alone doesn't eliminate UV exposure, particularly on bright days. Don't forget your eyes Sunglasses with UV protection are worth wearing during treatment, both to protect your eyes from the sun and to give some shade to the delicate skin around them. This matters more during chemo because your immune system is working hard and the skin around the eyes is particularly thin and sensitive. A note on hot weather generally Heat and chemotherapy can be a difficult combination. If you're struggling with temperature regulation, read our post on looking after your skin during chemo for more general advice, and take a look at our range of lightweight summer headwear if you need something that keeps the sun off without making you warmer.