You can get a free wig on the NHS if you're in hospital when the wig is supplied. If you go to a wig supplier, you have to pay for the wig yourself and this can be quite expensive. Some charities offer grants to help you to pay for your wig. You can speak to your hospital social worker if you want some more information on this.

There are also many websites that sell a wide variety of wigs and you can have a look at some of them here.

If you prefer to go to a wig shop, the nurses looking after you will be able to tell you where the nearest one is to your hospital.


Wigs

There are many different colours and styles of wigs and the hospital can arrange for you to have one that’s as close to your natural style as possible. You can take this wig to your own hairdresser to have it cut in your usual style. There are a few salons in the UK who offer this same service called My New Hair, and some of them even do it for you for free.


Wigs

Some people also like to have a couple of ‘fun’ type wigs (silver afro or purple dreadlocks!) for when they feel like being a bit funky or different.

There's a much smaller selection of wig styles for guys but they are available if you want one.


choosing a wig

  • Choose one that has the same amount of hair or slightly less than you had before. Too much hair will look a bit unnatural.
  • Choose your own hair colour or slightly lighter. If the colour is much darker than your own, it can look strange or draw attention to the change.
  • Try to get a wig that adjusts to any head size or that is slightly too small. As you lose your hair, you'll need a smaller size.
  • You'll be given information on how to look after your wig by the manufacturer. If you have any questions, check with them or with your hairdresser.