If you are looking for a wig for chemotherapy or comparing headwear during breast cancer treatment, it can be difficult to know where to start. Should you choose something that looks like your own hair? Would a scarf or turban be easier? And how can you tell what will feel comfortable?
Start with your everyday needs, then compare fit, feel and the amount of care each option requires. You do not have to settle on one look for every occasion. This guide offers questions to help you choose, plus information about free wig support for eligible breast cancer clients in Newcastle and the Hunter region.
When should you start looking for a wig?
If you would like a close match to your usual hair, looking before treatment or hair loss begins can help you compare colours and styles. Cancer Council NSW recommends this approach in its guide to wigs, turbans, scarves and hats.
You can also keep a few recent photos of your hair to show the person helping you. Include a view of the length and shape, as well as the colour. If treatment has already started, you can still explore your options; there is no need to feel that you have missed your chance.
Ask your treatment team what hair changes to expect from your particular treatment. For general information, see Cancer Council Australia’s hair loss guidance.
Wig, scarf, turban or hat: what suits your day?
Rather than looking for a single “best” option, think about where and when you might wear it. A familiar hairstyle may matter to you at work or social occasions. At home, you might prefer a simple head covering that is easy to put on. You can also choose not to cover your head.
- A wig: consider whether you want a familiar colour and cut or a different style. Ask how to put it on, adjust it and care for it.
- A scarf: try the tying method as well as the fabric. Would you enjoy experimenting with different ways to wear it, or prefer something ready to slip on?
- A turban: compare how easily it goes on and how the edges feel. Check whether you like the shape and coverage without needing to rearrange it.
- A hat: try it with the clothes, glasses or accessories you normally wear. Think about the coverage and fit you want for the occasions you have in mind.
Your preference can change from day to day. Choosing headwear is about what works for you, not meeting anyone else’s expectations about how you should look during treatment.
How to choose a wig: five things to check
1. Comfort before appearance
Give yourself time to notice how each option feels. Are there edges, seams or areas that bother you? Do you find yourself repeatedly adjusting it? A style you like in a photograph may feel different when you wear it. Tell the person helping you about anything uncomfortable rather than assuming you need to put up with it.
2. Fit during ordinary movements
Try sitting, turning your head and looking down as you would while reading. If you wear glasses, try them on too. Ask for help with adjustments and how the wig should sit; do not rely on appearance alone to judge the fit.
3. Colour, length and shape
Compare a small shortlist instead of trying to decide from every possible style. You might include one close to your usual hair, one shorter option and one you are simply curious about. Look in natural light where possible, and consider taking a photo for your own comparison if that feels helpful.
4. Care and upkeep
Before choosing, ask what the wig is made from, which products it needs, how to wash and dry it, and how to store it. Check whether heat styling is allowed for that specific wig. Clear care instructions can help you choose something that fits your routine and avoid an unexpected commitment.
5. The full cost
Ask what is included and whether any care products or accessories cost extra. If you are comparing a free service with a purchase, check whether the item is yours to keep or a loan, how long you can try it, and what happens if it is not right for you.
Make the most of trying wigs and headwear at home
Trying options at home lets you compare them with your own mirror, clothes and everyday surroundings. Set aside a quiet moment and keep a short note for each item: what you liked, what felt uncomfortable and what you want to ask.
If you want company, invite someone who will listen to your preferences. Useful feedback might be “that looks like the length you wanted” rather than a decision about what you should wear. It is also fine to try everything privately.
You do not need to choose the first item that looks acceptable. If nothing feels right, ask what other options are available before making a decision.
Where can you get a free wig in Newcastle and the Hunter?
Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation’s The Mutual Bank Wig & Headwear Library is available to eligible people in the Hunter region undergoing breast cancer treatment. It is a mobile service that brings a selection to your home, rather than an in-office wig showroom.
The collection includes different wig lengths, colours and styles, as well as scarves, hats and turbans, including bamboo and cotton options. Here is how to access it:
- Register: complete HBCF’s client service request form or call (02) 4033 1500 to discuss eligibility and getting started.
- Browse online: once registered, you receive a link to the online library. Choose up to six wigs or headwear pieces to try.
- Receive your selection: volunteers deliver the items to your home so you can try them privately. Contactless delivery is available.
- Choose: you can keep one wig free of charge. Additional wigs or headwear can be purchased at an affordable cost.
- Return the others: around one week after delivery, volunteers collect the items you are not keeping.
If none of your selected items suits you, contact the team to discuss alternatives and next steps. You do not need to know your preferred style before asking for help.
Common questions about wigs and headwear
Do I have to wear a wig during breast cancer treatment?
No. A wig, scarf, turban, hat or no head covering is a personal choice. You can use different options on different days. If your question is about scalp symptoms or protection during treatment, ask your treatment team for advice for your situation.
Can I try the HBCF wigs before deciding?
Yes. Registered clients can select up to six items for home delivery, with collection of the remaining items around one week later. This gives you time to compare your choices in familiar surroundings.
Is the free wig a loan?
Through HBCF’s library, eligible clients can keep one wig free of charge. The other items delivered for trying on are collected. Additional wigs or headwear are available to purchase.
Can I visit the HBCF office to browse?
The wigs are not on display at the office. The service uses an online library and home delivery. Call the team if you need help accessing or using the online selection.
The community support behind the library
Thank you to The Mutual Bank for funding The Mutual Bank Wig & Headwear Library, and to the volunteers who deliver and collect the selections. Their support gives local people time and privacy to explore their choices, with one less cost to consider during treatment.
For service details or to take the next step, visit our Wig & Headwear Library page or call (02) 4033 1500.
