A Guide to Hair Loss: Understanding and Coping with Alopecia and Cancer Treatment

Losing Hair, Not Yourself.

Hair is often more than just hair—it’s a part of who we are. It reflects identity, femininity, and self-expression. When hair loss occurs, whether from a medical diagnosis or condition like alopecia, the emotional toll can be as profound as the physical change. At Art of Wigs, we understand how deeply personal this experience is, and we’re here to offer support, clarity, and compassion.

Hair Loss from Cancer Treatment

Hair loss due to chemotherapy is one of the most visible side effects, but it affects everyone differently. Even patients receiving the same drugs can have different outcomes. Some may experience total hair loss; others may retain much of their hair.

Hair loss may include not only the scalp but also eyebrows, eyelashes, underarm hair, and body hair. Typically, this begins within two weeks after the first infusion. Though temporary, this shift can feel permanent in the moment—and it’s okay to grieve that change.

Our role is to help guide you through your options, from hairpieces to full wigs, in a respectful and empowering way.

Understanding Alopecia

Alopecia is a medical term for hair loss. It impacts over 5 million people in the United States alone and can stem from a wide range of causes—autoimmune conditions, stress, hormone changes, medications, nutritional deficiencies, or genetics. It can appear suddenly or progress over time, and while it can affect people of all ages, it is especially challenging for younger women.

Types of Alopecia:

• Androgenetic Alopecia
  Also called female pattern baldness. Caused by hormonal changes and DHT (a derivative of testosterone), it often appears gradually and may be treatable with medical support.

• Telogen Effluvium
  Often follows a stressful life event like illness, childbirth, or major surgery. Usually temporary and resolves once the body stabilizes.

• Anagen Effluvium
  Hair loss that happens quickly due to medical treatments like chemotherapy. Hair often regrows after treatment ends.

• Alopecia Areata
  Begins with one or more small, round bald patches. It’s the most common autoimmune form and may progress or resolve unpredictably.

• Alopecia Totalis
  Results in complete loss of scalp hair.

• Alopecia Universalis
  The most rare and advanced form, where all hair on the body is lost.

While alopecia can feel like a mystery, the good news is this: in nearly all forms, hair follicles remain alive and ready to grow again—often without intervention.

The Emotional Impact of Hair Loss

Hair loss can trigger grief, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. Many women describe a sense of losing part of themselves or feeling vulnerable and exposed. You may feel sadness, frustration, or anger. You may want to retreat or hide. This is all normal—and you are not alone.

Connection can be healing. From supportive professionals to compassionate online communities, there are spaces where your story is welcome, and your experience is understood.

Coping with Hair Loss and Finding Solutions

Sometimes, hair loss is linked to nutritional imbalances or deficiencies. In some cases, targeted supplements and lifestyle changes can help support hair regrowth. A hair analysis test—done at home through companies like hairanalysistest.com—can offer insight into what's happening inside your body for under $200.

If you're experiencing thinning at the top or crown but still have a hairline, a custom hair topper may be ideal. It blends seamlessly with your natural hair and adds volume only where needed. For women with complete hair loss due to alopecia totalis, universalis, or chemotherapy, a full human hair wig offers a beautiful, natural alternative.

Before purchasing any hair solution, it’s essential to do your research. Not all wigs or pieces are created equally, and marketing can be misleading. We're here to help you make confident, informed decisions—with honesty, warmth, and expertise.

You Are Not Alone

Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, coming to terms with long-term hair loss, or just beginning your search for the right solution, Art of Wigs is here to support you.

Our custom human hair pieces are created with artistry and care. But more than that, our consultations are designed to make you feel seen, heard, and whole—because you are.

Let’s explore what’s possible.

Contact:
📞 512.626.0879
📧 stephanie@artofwigs.com
🌐 www.artofwigs.com