If you've found this page because you or someone you love is about to face chemotherapy, we want to start by saying something simple: you don't have to have everything figured out. You can take this one step at a time.
Hair loss during treatment is one of the most visible and emotionally confronting side effects many people experience. It changes how you look and, often, how you feel about yourself. A wig can be a tool for reclaiming a little of that — not as a disguise, but as something that feels familiar and like you, during a time when very little does.
This guide is written to give you honest, practical information without pressure. Whether you're just starting to research or you're ready to book an appointment, we hope it helps.
Giving yourself time — when to start looking
Most people find it easiest to start exploring wigs before hair loss begins. Chemotherapy-related hair loss typically starts within two to four weeks of treatment starting, though this varies. Starting early — even just making an enquiry — means you have the chance to match a wig to your natural hair colour and texture, which can make the transition feel more like a continuation than a change.
It also means your first appointment isn't rushed or emotionally loaded. You can try things on, ask questions, and leave without any decisions if you're not ready. There is no timeline here except yours.
Your first appointment — what to expect
At our Sutherland Shire showroom, wig fittings for people experiencing medical hair loss are always private, unhurried, and conducted with care. We don't rush these appointments. You're welcome to bring a support person.
We'll talk about your hair before treatment — your natural colour, texture, and the styles you loved. We'll look at options together, and we'll be honest about what each wig looks and feels like. There is no obligation and no pressure to decide on the day.
If you'd like to get a sense of what we carry before coming in, our Medical Wigs collection is a good place to start — it's a curated selection of styles that suit women navigating hair loss, including options across both human hair and quality synthetics.
Human hair or synthetic — which is right for you?
Both can be beautiful and both have their place during treatment. The honest difference comes down to a few practical factors.
Human hair wigs look and feel the most natural. They move the way hair moves, they can be heat-styled, and they're the most versatile long-term — meaning they're still a good choice after treatment as your hair grows back. They require a little more care (washing, drying, occasional styling) and they represent a larger investment.
Synthetic wigs are lighter-weight, lower-maintenance, and often more comfortable during periods of fatigue. They hold their style between washes, which means fewer styling sessions. They're also a more accessible investment, and some people find it easier to start with a synthetic option while they're still deciding what they want long-term.
Our stylists will talk you through both options in person. There is no single right answer — it depends on your lifestyle, your energy levels during treatment, and how much styling you want to do. You can also read our human hair vs synthetic wigs comparison guide if you'd like to go deeper before your appointment.
Comfort and fit during treatment
Scalp sensitivity is common during chemotherapy. As your hair thins, your scalp may feel more sensitive to touch, temperature, and the sensation of a wig cap. A few things that help:
- Wig liners and soft cotton caps create a gentle barrier between the wig and your scalp. We carry these in our accessories section.
- Cap construction matters. A monofilament or lace-front cap allows for more natural movement at the hairline and is generally more comfortable against a sensitive scalp.
- A correctly sized wig makes an enormous difference. One that is slightly too tight can cause pressure discomfort; one that is too loose can shift and add to your self-consciousness. A proper fitting appointment is the most important step.
We're also happy to adjust the fit of a wig after your initial appointment if things change — which they often do as treatment progresses.
After treatment — as your hair starts to grow back
For many people, this is a particularly tender time. Hair grows back differently for different people — often finer or a different texture initially — and the transition back to your natural hair can bring its own complicated feelings.
Some women continue to wear their wig for months after treatment as their hair grows in. Others move to shorter styles or toppers. There is no right approach. What matters is that you feel like yourself, whatever that looks like at each point in the journey.
If you'd like to talk through options at any stage, our team is available for a follow-up appointment. To book a private appointment or ask a question before you commit to anything, please reach out to us here. We're here to help, at whatever pace feels right.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start looking for a wig if I'm having chemotherapy?
Most people find it helpful to start looking before hair loss begins — usually once treatment is confirmed. This gives you time to find something you love, match it to your natural colour, and avoid making the decision under pressure or when you're fatigued. That said, there is no wrong time to start. Our team can work with you at any stage of the process.
Can I claim a rebate or use private health insurance for a medical wig in Australia?
Some Australians with private health insurance may be eligible to claim a portion of the cost of a wig through their extras cover, depending on the policy. Eligibility varies by insurer and plan. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to ask about rebates listed under "prostheses" or "hair loss" items. We can provide a receipt and documentation to support a claim if needed.
How long does a human hair wig last?
A well-made human hair wig, properly cared for, typically lasts two to five years. During treatment, wear patterns vary — you may wear it every day or only when going out. With gentle washing, careful storage, and minimal heat use, the wig will last significantly longer. We're happy to advise on specific care based on the style you choose.
Is it okay to wear a wig every day during chemotherapy?
Yes — many women wear their wig daily throughout treatment with no problems. If scalp sensitivity is an issue, using a soft wig liner underneath can help. On days at home or resting, giving your scalp time to breathe is both comfortable and practical. We'll talk you through what works best for day-to-day wear at your appointment.
Can I have a private wig fitting rather than shopping in a regular wig shop?
Absolutely. Our showroom appointments are entirely private — you won't be in a retail setting or around other customers. We have a dedicated appointment-based space at our Sutherland Shire location, set up specifically to make this a calm, unhurried experience. You're always welcome to bring a support person. Book a time that works for you here.
