Hair Loss & NHS Wigs

Help from the Nhs & Natural Image

UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF HAIR LOSS:

It's natural to have concerns about the effect medical hair loss may have on the way you look and feel. There are many reasons that you might lose your hair - and many solutions to help you look and feel your best.

• HAIR LOSS WITH AGE
  As we age not only does our hair change colour, it thins or even falls out. The rate of hair growth slows and the hair strands become smaller and have less pigment. Some women also experience hair loss, called Female Pattern Hair loss, which effects the hair on the crown of the head and in some cases the front of the head or even ear to ear. This is an inherited predisposition where your hair follicles diminish, producing finer and finer hair.
• CHEMOTHERAPY
  Hair loss is a very well known side effect of cancer treatment and may range from complete hair loss, to patchy or finer growing hair. Some cancer drugs are more likely to cause hair loss than others and the type of hair loss can vary from person to person. If you would like help with understanding more about cancer treatments or side effects we suggest you visit the Macmillan Cancer Support or Cancer Research UK websites, who have extensive information and support networks.
• ALOPECIA
  Alopecia is the general term for hair loss. Alopecia Areata, refers to an autoimmune disease which causes patchy hair loss. Alopecia Totalis refers to total hair loss on the scalp and is the more advanced form of alopecia Areata. Alopecia Universalis refers to the total loss of hair all over the body.
  For more information, support and advice on Alopecia, we suggest you contact Alopecia UK.
• TRICHOTILLOMANIA
  This is a condition where you feel compelled to pull or pick at your hair, eyelashes or eyebrows. sometimes resulting in temporary or even permanent hair loss. For support and information on this condition talk to your GP or, for more information and an extensive support network, visit trichotillomania.co.uk

Regardless of the cause of your hair loss, a wig or hairpiece can help you feel and look your best, and really help boost your self confidence.
We all love to enhance our looks with false nails, make up, eyelashes and tans, so why not a wig? They are so realistic and comfortable these days that no–one ever will ever know you’re wearing one …unless you tell them!

HEADWEAR

A wig can help you feel the most like yourself and is the preference of most people who experience hair loss, however you might also want to consider headwear such as scarves and wrap, turbans or hats with attached hair. Some women choose not to cover their head at all and wear their baldness with pride.

How will I know what suits me?

We suggest trying on a new wig style in the early stages of hair loss. This way you can transition into a new look and your friends and family will also have time to get used to your new style. We at Natural Image are here to help and work with both private & NHS patients to help them chose how they want to look, whether you are experiencing temporary hair loss or need a more permanent solution.

Choosing a style:

When choosing a wig there several factors to consider such as length and style:

• Generally shorter 'shake and go' styles are easier to care for and longer styles require a little more maintenance. Consider your lifestyle: What does your typical day involve? Will you be wearing your wig everyday? Be sure to keep your typical daily or weekly activities in mind when you try different wigs.
• You might want to go for a style that is similar to your own so it’s what you’re used to styling and a more subtle change. Also remember that if you are undergoing chemotherapy you may experience tiredness and won’t want to fuss with your hair.

Choosing a colour:

You might feel comfortable choosing a shade that matches your own. It doesn't have to be identical. When in doubt go a shade lighter or warmer to brighten your features. Most of all: Have fun! This just may be the opportunity to have the hair you always wanted. Why not try a wig in a longer style or a short sharp cut- or even try a more daring shade!

Am I entitled to a wig on the NHS ?

Currently you are entitled to receive an acrylic wig paid for by the NHS if:

• You are having treatment for alopecia or chemotherapy (a hospital inpatient)
• You are under 16 or 16 to 18 and in full-time education
• A war pensioner and the wig or fabric support is for your accepted disablement, and you have a valid war pension exemption certificate
• You may be entitled to help with the cost of your wig if:
• You are claiming income support or disability allowance

The Department of Health Form HC 11 and the NHS website CHOICES explain these conditions in more detail. There are many different conditions surrounding who is able to receive a wig via the NHS scheme so don't be too shy to ask! Not all NHS Trusts offer the same service or selection. Our team of consultants will be happy to advise you on the Trust in your area.

Can I have more than one wig on the NHS scheme?

You may be entitled to receive one acrylic wig every 6 months, again it depends on your condition and the NHS trust in your area. Our team of consultants can help advise you on this.

I would like to purchase another wig. Do I receive any other benefits or discounts?

You don't have to pay VAT for wigs that are bought due to cancer treatment or for alopecia sufferers. You must however fill out a form when purchasing the wig. All our Natural Image and Hothair stores carry these forms, or if you choose to purchase online, you will find a link to the form at the checkout as well as at the bottom of this page. Please ensure that you fill out this form thoroughly as you cannot claim for a VAT rebate after you have completed your purchase. To make an Eligibility Declaration for VAT Exemption click here