The Caring Hair Boutique

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Do write down/take with you any key information as it may be helpful to the person advising you, for example:

• Key dates when you may start/end treatments

• Any information about hair loss/thinning and your
treatment you may have (especially time frame for hair loss). If you are not sure ask your doctor or nurse or look up your medication on a web site

• NHS prescription/referral letter (normally only for wigs and must be a supplier who accepts NHS prescriptions)

• If you are having colour or technical services (perms etc) you must have a sensitivity test (normally 48 hours prior to colour) and seek the approval of your doctor (especially during active cancer treatment).

Take a picture with you
Pictures can be so helpful to describe a style, so take photographs or pictures from magazines or even your own photographs of styles you do or don’t like. Most hairdressers welcome the opportunity to see exactly what you have in mind. This also applies when preparing to see a wig or hair loss specialist.

Think about funds and budgets
It is worth thinking about what budget you have in mind

The only service that is likely to be funded by the NHS is a prescription wig which is part funded by, BUT not made by, the NHS. If you qualify for help towards this you will normally get a prescription or a referral letter from your GP. This may be free, or you may need to pay a part of the cost (£60.00 is normal). To read more about NHS funding and wigs look at Wigs and the NHS understanding funding.

Discounted service – Many hairdressers offer discounted services to people with cancer so do ask. If you are having financial problems speak to your local Macmillan nurse or cancer support organisations as they may be able to help by arranging transport to see a hairdresser/specialist or help towards costs.
Do you need a friend to come along for moral support?
Sometimes it can feel daunting when trying on a wig or having your hair cut short in preparation for hair loss. Why not consider taking a friend or family member along for support. Or perhaps arrange to meet them afterwards for a coffee and a catch up and some moral support.

Help, I can’t find a hairdresser
If you have followed our 3 step plan but haven’t managed to book a consultation or find a hairdresser then take a look at  Finding specialist hairdressing services & commonly asked Q&A for more help, tips and ideas.

Best of luck with finding a good hairdressing service– please remember to let us know all about hairdressing services that you have found so that we can pass on the contacts. Contact us