So the wig was becoming a real thorn in my side. The thought of losing all my hair really started stressing me out (and honestly still is), and my hair is starting to thin a bit, so I decided it was time to buy a wig. I already grabbed some cute hats and scarves, but I just wanted to have all the options at my finger tips. Wig shopping attempt number 1 was foiled by Hurricane Irene, wig shopping attempt number 2 was foiled by an unexpected Labor Day weekend closure, but the third time proved to be a charm, and I made it over to Amy’s of Denmark with Andrea yesterday to try on some options. Tina at the shop was very friendly and helpful and made me feel comfortable.
Here is the low-down. The human hair wigs are nicer, but they run about 1,600! Woa! They also require more care and really need to be professionally washed and styled at least once a month. The synthetic wigs are not as soft, can’t be near high heat, and they won’t last as long, but they are much cheaper, lay flater, and are low maintenance. I must say, I did like the feel of the human hair better, but I couldn’t find a style that I thought looked good enough to spend that kinda of money. Pictures are below, the long wig is the human hair, looks pretty nice, but it would need to be cut and I am just not sure what it would end up looking like after the hair cut. I thought that long wig had the possibility of becoming a very expensive bad haircut. The shorter wig is synthetic and is good to go right off the shelf. Jim went with me today and confirmed that the synthetic wig looked pretty much like my real hair…so I bought it. It was $350 which is fully covered by my insurance. Not sure what I’ll really end up wearing, but at least the deed is done. Who knows, I could still freak out later and buy a human hair wig, but I feel settled about it for today.
honestly… until i actually read the post (because i just started with the pictures), i thought it was like a before and after picture thing. the short-haired wig looks just like your real hair/haircut! totally. though, i think a sweet bandana can be pretty hot. 🙂
Thanks Janaya! 🙂
I love the shorter wig — I would never have guessed you even had one on!! You look mahhvelous!
Thank MB. I like the shorter one too. 🙂
Hi Alison,
Friend of your Mom’s, not sure if you remember me….but I’ve been praying for you and do understand (from a daughter’s point of view though) what you’re going through. My Mom is a twice survivor and also went with a synthetic wig. She still has it. She too was told that human hair had upkeep and wasn’t sure she was up to that, also had sticker shock as you did. She actually went to the Tate Center by Anne Arundel Medical center and still does for other needs. They’ve really been lovely.
My daughter Jordan donated her locks to locks of love a few months back and I’ve been growing mine for the same purpose. Wish I could cut it and give it right to you. 🙂
You’ve had such grace…know that I’m thinking of you….
Thanks Kelli!
You look wonderful. I started with the pictures too….I would never had known that wasn’t your haircut…especially the shorter cut….I am so glad you found something you like 🙂
Add me to the list of folks who thought the short haired wig was your real hair (though on a second look, the dangling tag gives it away…I’m assuming you’re not going all hip-hop and leaving the tag on. Right? Not that I wouldn’t support it…). Besides, by going synthetic and saving $1250, you can start stockpiling for RFC 2012 – Revenge of the Oates.
Good luck with the next round of chemo, keep the updates coming. Pos vibes to you.
Yea, I also have my Oates and Vince Neil wigs, so I should be all set! Ha. Thanks Eric!
My darling–You just look beautiful –Jim sure did a super job–Your blog is remarkable–should be published–Thinking of you constantly–xoxoxoMimi
Mimi! Oh good, I hoped you were able to read and comment on the blog! I have been thinking of you loads too and have been meaning to call you! Soon! I love you lots and lots! Love Al
i think you made the right decision. i looked at the pics before i read the post and thought the short hair was more “you”. and honestly, i can’t imagine taking care of real hair if i didn’t have to. 😉 the synthetic looks great and looks like you just got a professional blow out. i don’t know, i just think it suits you.
Yea I think the synthetic was a good move, I honestly haven’t worn it yet at all, just wearing hats or going bald. I might grab some other fun cheap wigs to have around too, maybe pulp fiction style or a pink one. Right now my head is such a mess with this rash I can’t imagine Ill be able to wear a wig at all…but I’m sure it will clear up! Thanks for the vote of confidence! Xoxo, Al