Chemo & Hair Loss: What to Expect and How to Take Back Control with Toppers and Wigs

Let’s be honest: cancer is already doing the most. It barges in uninvited, flips your life upside down, and as if that wasn’t enough—it starts messing with your hair. For many going through chemotherapy, hair loss isn’t just a side effect; it’s a deeply emotional part of the journey that affects confidence, identity, and self-esteem.

But you are not powerless in this. With the right support and solutions like toppers and wigs, you can take back a little control and still feel like you in the mirror.

Let’s break it all down…

Why Does Chemo Cause Hair Loss?

Chemotherapy targets fast-dividing cells, which includes cancer cells—but unfortunately, it also includes hair follicles. That’s why many people experience hair loss not only on the scalp but sometimes on brows, lashes, and body hair too.

Hair usually starts to fall out about 2–3 weeks after treatment begins, and for many, it comes out in clumps. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, emotional, or even angry when this happens. Hair is a huge part of how we present ourselves to the world—and how we feel inside.

What Can You Expect?

• Scalp sensitivity: As hair falls out, your scalp might feel sore, itchy, or sensitive.

• Patchy loss or full shedding: Some people lose all their hair, others just notice thinning or patchy loss.

• Regrowth: Hair often starts to grow back a few weeks after treatment ends—but it might return with a different texture or colour at first (chemo curls are a thing).

Your Hair Loss Toolkit: Toppers & Wigs

Now, here’s the empowering bit: You have options. Loads of them. Whether you want a natural look, a fun change, or something that just makes you feel fabulous—toppers and wigs have your back (and your head).

Toppers: For Thinning Hair or Patchy Loss

Toppers are lightweight hairpieces that clip into your natural hair to add volume and coverage, especially on the crown or top. Perfect for those with partial hair loss or thinning.

Why people love them:

• Super breathable and comfortable

• Easy to wear with natural hair underneath

• Great transition piece during regrowth

Wigs: For Full Coverage & Full Confidence

When more coverage is needed, wigs are your glam squad. Today’s wigs are nothing like the itchy, plastic-looking ones of decades past. We’re talking lace fronts, hand-tied caps, real human hair—seriously luxurious stuff.

Wig perks:

• Styles and colours galore

• No styling fuss—wake up, throw it on, slay the day

• Realistic and comfortable for everyday wear

Choosing the Right Solution

This isn’t just about hair—it’s about how you feel. That’s why it helps to work with a specialist who understands the emotional side of hair loss, not just the technical side.

Things to consider when choosing:

• Do you want a human hair or synthetic piece?

• Is scalp sensitivity a concern?

• What’s your budget? (There are options for every price point, and some people are eligible for NHS or charity wig vouchers.)

• What makes you feel like you again?

One Last Thing…

Losing your hair during chemo doesn’t make you less you. But if a topper or wig helps you feel stronger, more “yourself,” or even just a little bit more comfortable—then that’s powerful. You’re allowed to grieve the loss and embrace a new look. You’re allowed to wear a wig one day and go bare the next. It’s your journey, and we’re here for it.

And if you’re supporting someone through this? A little compassion and a cuppa go a long way.

Need help finding your perfect hair solution? Our team specialises in helping people with hair loss from chemotherapy, alopecia, and beyond. We offer private fittings, advice, and a range of beautiful, realistic options that can help you feel confident through every stage.

Reach out to book a free consultation—we’d love to help.