Hair Loss Awareness Month

Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is a psychological condition where individuals feel compelled to pull out their hair, leading to noticeable hair loss. This can affect the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. The condition often results from stress or anxiety and requires a multifaceted treatment approach, including behavioral therapy and supportive hair care solutions.

Alopecia

Alopecia encompasses various conditions that cause hair loss, with Alopecia Areata being one of the most common. This autoimmune disorder causes the immune system to attack hair follicles, resulting in patchy hair loss. In severe cases, it can lead to complete scalp hair loss (Alopecia Totalis) or even total body hair loss (Alopecia Universalis). Treatment may include corticosteroids, topical immunotherapy, or other medications to stimulate hair growth.

Cancer-related Hair Loss

Cancer-related hair loss is typically a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These treatments target rapidly dividing cells, including those in hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The psychological impact of losing hair during cancer treatment can be profound, making supportive care and compassionate solutions essential.

We Empathize with Your Hair Loss

At Wigful Thinking, we empathize with the emotional impact of hair loss. Since 2014, our family-owned business, led by Caryl—a two-time cancer survivor—has been committed to helping women restore their confidence and feel beautiful. We don’t just provide wigs; we create personalized hair designs that consider each client’s style, lifestyle, personality, and facial features. Our comprehensive studio services include sizing, cutting and styling, cleaning and refreshing, and providing exceptional hair solutions.

At Wigful Thinking, we cater to all levels of hair loss, including alopecia, Trichotillomania, hormone deficiency, chemotherapy, and medication-induced hair loss. Our dedicated team is not just about providing products but about supporting you during this challenging time. Many clients come to us feeling lost and uncertain, but they leave with a renewed sense of confidence and dignity. The smiles on their faces when they find the perfect piece are a testament to our commitment.

On a personal note, I walk this journey with each client. Our relationship extends beyond the initial process, whether for further instructions, sizing adjustments, maintenance, or, often, bringing in a friend in need to experience the satisfaction of Wigful Thinking. I’m here to ensure your experience with us is as comfortable and supportive as possible.

Caryl

Our personalized customer service truly sets us apart. At Wigful Thinking, we are more than a wig studio—we are a safe haven where you can rediscover your confidence and beauty. We’d love to hear from you. Reach out here or give us a call at 609-249-4811.

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The post Support During National Hair Loss Awareness Month appeared first on Wigful Thinking Wig Studio and Wig Retailer.

Here are some things to keep in mind before purchasing your first wig:

1. Determine your budget: Wigs come in a wide range of prices, from synthetic wigs that are more affordable to human hair wigs that can be more expensive. Determine your budget and stick to it so that you can narrow down your options.
2. Consider the type of wig: Different types of wigs are available, including synthetic and human hair wigs. Synthetic wigs are made from synthetic fibers and are generally less expensive than human hair wigs. They are also easy to care for but may not last as long as human hair wigs. On the other hand, human hair wigs are made from real human hair and can be styled and colored just like natural hair. They are more expensive than synthetic wigs but can last several years with proper care.
3. Consider the style: Wigs come in various styles, from short to long, straight to curly, and everything in between. Consider your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle when choosing a style.
4. Consider your personal needs: Do you have any specific needs, such as a large head size or a sensitive scalp? If yes, you should look for wigs that are specifically designed for those needs.
5. Research online and offline retailers: Research and check out different online and offline retailers before purchasing. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.
6. Visit a hair loss professional such as Wigful Thinking: If you’re experiencing hair loss due to a medical condition, it’s a good idea to consult with a hair loss professional. They can help you determine the best wig for your needs and can also help you find a wig that looks natural and feels comfortable.
7. Try before you buy: If possible, try on wigs before purchasing. This will give you a better idea of how the wig will look on you and how comfortable it is to wear. This is just one of the reasons why you will love shopping at Wigful Thinking!

Buying your first wig can be daunting – but Wigful Thinking makes it much easier!

In conclusion, buying your first wig can be daunting, but by keeping these things in mind, you can narrow down your options and find a wig that works for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or hair loss professionals; remember to research and try before buying.

Wigful Thinking has years of experience with medical hair loss, and the owner, Caryl, is a cancer survivor. Her personal experience and care for clients make Wigful Thinking the best option when you begin looking for your first wig!

Contact Us

Visit us at wigfulthinking.com, or contact Wigful Thinking at 609.249.4811 with questions, to schedule a service, or to request your one-hour wig consultation in our design studio.

Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

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Caring for Your Scalp During Chemotherapy

Determining which of these SCALP methods works best for you is essential since each experience is unique… especially while undergoing treatments.

Shampoo.

Keeping the scalp clean is important to avoid infection. However, daily shampooing often isn’t necessary. Washing less frequently, every 2-3 days, may prevent itchy, dry patches.

Chemicals.

Reading shampoo, soap, and sunscreen labels is essential as many chemical additives can cause irritation, particularly if the skin is sensitive. Try to avoid products using harsher chemicals: sodium lauryl sulfate and parabens, as well as paraben derivatives “ethyl-, butyl-, propyl, and/or methyl-.“

Attention to Fragrance.

Like the above chemical additives, synthetic perfumes and fragrances can also adversely affect the skin. If using scented products, opt for aromas created from pure botanicals (the botanical name is usually included in the ingredients).

Liniment Balms.

Naturally soothing liniment oils and balms: aloe, organic evening primrose, organic sea buckthorn, and/or organic jojoba seed oils offer beneficial nutrients vs. mineral oil / petroleum-based lotions and balms.

Professionals.

Ensuring your wigs are fitted for comfort by professionals minimizes scalp irritation. Additionally, professionals can suggest products, headwraps, and wig cap materials best suited for individual needs and relief.

At Wigful Thinking, we know there are many uncertainties throughout cancer treatments. One definitive, though, is our commitment to you. We offer more than high-quality wigs and various studio services; we provide understanding and compassion to your individual experience.

We know that choosing a new wig doesn’t always change life’s circumstances, but increased confidence and comfort empower clients to embrace each new day.

Contact Us

Visit us at wigfulthinking.com, or contact Wigful Thinking at 609.249.4811 with questions, to schedule a service, or to request your one-hour wig consultation in our design studio.

Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

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The goal of observing this month is to spread awareness about hair loss and to educate and empower those who are seeking potential causes and treatments. Many people are hesitant to talk about hair loss, even though it is a growing issue that affects such a large number of us. And we all know that one of the first things you notice about someone is their hair.

Factors that can affect hair loss

There are several factors that can affect hair loss, including heredity, alopecia, acute stress, disease, medical treatments (like chemotherapy), strong medications, dietary restrictions, COVID, grooming and styling practices, trauma, and even pregnancy.

Solutions for Hair Loss

At Wigful Thinking, we are here to offer solutions for your hair loss. We know that when your hair looks good, you feel more confident. We offer an assortment of wigs in the latest styles and take each client’s personal style, lifestyle, and personality, along with facial features, and compose the best possible hair design.

Experiencing hair loss can be a traumatic experience, but we are here to offer compassion and understanding to help you or your loved one through this difficult time. We will be here with you every step of the way. We promise that you will leave our studio with newfound confidence once you find the perfect hairpiece for your lifestyle.

About Wigful Thinking

We can accommodate any level of hair loss including alopecia, trichotillomania, hormone deficiency, chemotherapy, hair loss from COVID, and hair loss resulting from medications. To take full advantage of everything Wigful Thinking has to offer, it is important that our clients take the time to book an appointment. We completely understand that many clients are undergoing treatment, and we will make every effort to accommodate our clientele. Make your appointment today by calling: 609-249-4811. Also, feel free to visit our website at https://www.wigfulthinking.com/

Follow Wigful Thinking on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

The post National Hair Loss Awareness Month appeared first on Wigful Thinking Wig Studio and Wig Retailer.

Combining compassion with excellence in service is how Caryl, owner of Wigful Thinking, manages her wig studio.

Caryl, a two-time cancer survivor, and her staff understand the journey through hair loss.

Gia has this to say about her experience at Wigful Thinking:

“Losing your hair due to chemotherapy is a devastating process for any woman. Meeting with Caryl and Olivia reassured me that I’m not alone and they were going to make certain I felt as comfortable as possible. Their patience, knowledge, and guidance on choosing what was right for me was incredible. Each time I go back for maintenance they are always accommodating, and the experience is fun and enjoyable. I always leave the shop feeling confident and beautiful!

Quality Wigs

One of the many benefits of shopping local at Wigful Thinking is the opportunity to see, feel, and try on different types and styles of wigs, including human hair wigs, synthetic wigs, and hairpieces to fit any hair loss need. We accommodate any level of hair loss due to alopecia, trichotillomania, hormone deficiency, chemotherapy, or certain medications.

Wig Care and Styling

In addition to the extensive variety of wig options, Wigful Thinking offers wig care and styling services. After selecting a wig or hairpiece that is perfect for you, using the wrong styling products and tools can damage your wig. The experienced staff is always there to assist you with hair solutions and how to care for your wig.

Eyebrows

When dealing with a medical issue that includes hair loss, few of us think about the possibility of losing our eyebrows and eyelashes. Wigful Thinking carries a selection of eyebrows to wear as a more natural-looking alternative to makeup. Eyebrow wigs can be customized to achieve the style you want. We also carry a lash and brow gel to help maintain your eyelashes and eyebrows while undergoing chemotherapy.

Head Coverings

If a wig is not for you, Wigful Thinking carries a variety of scarves and head wraps. It’s important to think about comfort when choosing a head covering. For example, it might be best to select a piece without seams or embellishments if your scalp is sensitive.

Personalized wig experience

When you choose Wigful Thinking, you receive personalized care which sets them apart from other wig studios and online retailers. Caryl and Olivia will support and guide you by answering all your questions to help choose your best look to fit your personality and lifestyle.

No matter where you find yourself along your hair loss journey in the new year, don’t allow yourself to feel overwhelmed and alone. Contact Wigful Thinking and make it your new year’s opportunity for renewed hope and a new you!

Follow Wigful Thinking on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

Editor’s Note: This is an updated version of a post that originally ran in 2017.

The post New Year – New You: How the Right Wig Experience Can Give You Confidence appeared first on Wigful Thinking Wig Studio and Wig Retailer.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Coping with Hair Loss

Each year, October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Public service organizations, government agencies, and medical professionals work together to promote research, prevention, and education.

Survivors and supporters across the country join forces annually to organize and participate in events to create awareness and encourage women worldwide to be proactive in their breast health. Early detection is crucial to being one of the more than 3 million survivors.

A breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming as waves of emotion turn your world upside down. Nothing prepares you for the initial shock, but it’s important to know that you are not alone.

One of the biggest fears for women who undergo cancer treatment is the thought of losing their hair.

Coming face to face with this debilitating side effect can diminish your confidence and leave you feeling vulnerable with each glance in the mirror. As difficult as it may be, keeping your spirits up will have a positive effect on your recovery.

WIGFUL THINKING offers these tips to help you prepare and transition through your journey.

• Consider cutting your hair – a shorter length creates thickness and helps to minimize the appearance of hair loss. It may also help make the transition less traumatic.
• Shop for wigs, head coverings, and accessories – ask a close friend or loved one to go with you to a salon that specializes in hair solutions as you go through the stages of hair loss.
• Have a cosmetologist offer advice on caring for your scalp and skin during treatment and to help with beauty techniques for the possible loss of your eyebrows and lashes. 
• Talk about what you’re going through with survivors and others who are facing the same challenges. Discussing triumphs, fears, physical changes, emotional ups and downs, and hopes for the future will help you on your path to recovery.
• Stay positive – do your best to keep a positive attitude and realize that your hair loss means cancer cells are being destroyed. Remember that your hair will grow back.

Find a safe haven at Wigful Thinking

If you want a safe haven where your privacy is protected and you feel emotionally supported through hair loss, Caryl and Olivia at Wigful Thinking are there for you.

Owner, Caryl, is a cancer survivor who understands the emotions of losing your hair and how vital it is to choose the right wig and other products that complement your personality and lifestyle.

Caryl’s granddaughter, Olivia, is a certified cosmetologist and will guide you through wig selection, fitting, and styling, as well as skincare and makeup techniques. 

Schedule a consultation today.

To schedule a one-hour consultation in the Wigful Thinking Design Studio, call Caryl and Olivia at 609-249-4811 for a confidential appointment. A private room is available to all clients and a guest is always welcome for encouragement and support.

Follow Wigful Thinking on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

Editor’s Note – This is an updated version of a post that originally ran in 2018.

The post Breast Cancer Awareness – Coping with Hair Loss appeared first on Wigful Thinking Wig Studio and Wig Retailer.

A personal journey becomes a passion for supporting women with hair loss.

Who knew that a cancer diagnosis would lead to my passion for supporting women experiencing hair loss? It is a devastating side effect of cancer treatments that can leave you feeling vulnerable and helpless.

During that time, I realized the need for a highly personalized service dedicated to anyone experiencing hair loss, whether due to a medical condition, side effects from treatment or medication, or going through extreme stress.

My vision was to create a safe space where you would have privacy and feel at ease, without feeling self-conscious or rushed while going through the process of trying on, fitting, and selecting a wig.

Wigful Thinking Wig Salon – The Vision Becomes a Reality

Meet Caryl – In 2014, we opened the doors to Wigful Thinking, a family-owned small business with a mission in mind. As a two-time cancer survivor, I understand how physically debilitating treatment can be and how much the toll of losing my hair affected me emotionally.

That was when I realized there was a need for more salons specializing in hair solutions including wigs, wig care, and accessories to help women regain confidence.

Meet Olivia – My granddaughter, Olivia, works side-by-side with me in the wig studio. As a certified cosmetologist, she has the expertise to help women choose and style a wig that best suits their needs and personality.

Olivia also worked for a breast cancer physician and observed first-hand how cancer treatment affects lives both physically and emotionally. Her hope is to make a difference by inspiring a renewed confidence in anyone experiencing hair loss.

At Wigful Thinking, our desire and commitment is to create the best possible hair solutions for each client by focusing on personality and lifestyle, understanding that every person’s journey is unique.

We will guide you every step of the way from wig selection, sizing, cutting, and styling through cleaning, refreshing, and maintaining the integrity of your wig. We can also help you with eyebrow and eyelash solutions.

There’s no greater reward than knowing we made a difference in someone’s life.

Testimonials such as this one from Wendy J. are why we are passionate about what we do, offering a service that empowers women to feel better about themselves during difficult times.

“Caryl and Liv are absolutely the best! They take the time to explain the different types of wigs and what suits you best. It is such an emotional experience losing your hair, and these two angels help you throughout the difficult process. I really didn’t think I was going to find a wig that I would love. Sure enough, they proved me wrong. Thankfully Wigful Thinking is local, but I would have driven any distance for the experience they provided.”

Your visit to Wigful Thinking is private and confidential.

In order to give you the privacy and dedication you deserve, consultations are by appointment only. During that hour, we will answer your questions and address your concerns to help you understand the process and what to expect.

Contact Wigful Thinking at 609-249-4811 to request an appointment.

Like our page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton/

The post Why We Are Passionate About Supporting Women with Hair Loss appeared first on Wigful Thinking Wig Studio and Wig Retailer.

Why Am I Losing My Hair?

We all shed 50-100 strands per day, but when the natural balance of hair growth and loss is interrupted, you may experience thinning hair or hair loss.

The growth (and loss) cycle of your hair has three stages:

1. Anagen Stage – This stage lasts 2 to 8 years when a strand of hair is actively growing.

2. Catagen Stage – A phase that lasts up to 3 weeks when the hair has stopped growing and is preparing to shed.

3. Telogen Stage – This is the last stage when the hair is expelled from the follicle. The follicle remains dormant for about three months before a new hair starts to grow.

Reasons for hair loss:

1. Alopecia – an autoimmune skin disease that causes thinning, patchy, or total hair loss. There are five types of alopecia:

• Alopecia Areata – patchy hair loss and bald spots.
• Alopecia Areata Totalis – total hair loss on the head.
• Alopecia Areata Universalis – loss of hair over the entire body.
• Diffuse Alopecia Areata – sudden thinning of hair.
• Ophiasis Alopecia Areata – hair loss band around back and sides of the head,

2. Trichotillomania – compulsive hair-pulling disorder, mostly from the scalp, eyelashes, and eyebrows.
3. Telogen Effluvium – a disturbance in the hair cycle characterized by hair thinning or an increase in hair shedding where large amounts of hair fall out — generally brought on by stress, shock, or trauma such as illness, surgery, and giving birth, but it typically grows back.
4. Age – Changes in hormone levels, worsening after menopause when estrogen is lost.
5. Medical – Chemotherapy, radiation, thyroid problem, inflammatory condition, or medications. If hair follicles are damaged, the hair loss can be permanent.
6. Hair Style – Over-chemically treated hair or stress on roots such as tight ponytails.
7. Family History – FPHL (female pattern hair loss) on top of the head, many times widening along the part line
8. Poor nutrition – not getting enough iron, folic acid, or other minerals in your diet

If there is no apparent reason for thinning or loss of hair – such as chemotherapy – schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to check for underlying medical issues. At that time, you can discuss recommended treatment for your condition and in many cases, hair loss can be stabilized or, in some cases, reversed.

Wigful Thinking is Here for You

Wigful Thinking is here to help you through the most challenging time of hair loss by fitting you with a wig or hairpiece. During your consultation, we take into consideration your face shape, skin tone, natural hair color, texture, and lifestyle.

All visits to our wig salon are by appointment only. To ensure the safety and well-being of our clients, we sanitize the studio between each appointment. Contact Wigful Thinking today to schedule a consultation at 609-249-4811.

Follow us on Facebook – – > https://www.facebook.com/wigfulthinkinghamilton

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There are a variety of reasons people experience hair loss: medical issues, cancer treatment, the aging process, trichotillomania, alopecia, a side effect of medications, hormonal issues, thyroid disease, and even stress.

Supporting a loved one through medical hair loss is vital to their self-esteem and recovery.

It can be a very traumatic time. Here are some ways you can help your loved one cope with their loss.

1. Listen and emphasize with their feelings – A woman who experiences medical hair loss is grieving. Give them the time and space to process those feelings. Acknowledge the magnitude of her loss and let her know it is okay to mourn.

2. Prepare yourself ahead of time – The first time you see your loved one that is losing their hair, it can be upsetting. Follow their lead in how to respond. Your loved one may feel self-conscious or want to cry. Remember, you are there to support her.

3. Tell her she is beautiful and brave – All women need to hear they are beautiful and courageous. Women with medical hair loss may struggle to believe a positive view of themselves. Offer your love and encouragement by taking the time not only to tell them how beautiful they are, show them with your time and attention. Let them know they are loved.

4. Talk to them about a support group or individual counseling. – Providing a chance to meet other people who are going through a similar experience can be invaluable. It can help your loved one cope with this new normal. If they are open to it, you can even offer to go with them.

5. Offer to go with her to look at head coverings and wigs – When your loved one is ready, offer to go with her to find her look. Selecting a wig is a very personal thing; a good friend can help. Wigful Thinking Wig Studio offers wig consultations in our Design Studio.

Take your loved one’s hair loss one day at a time.

Some days they may not want to wear any head covering, and other days they may feel more comfortable with a wig or headwrap. Being supportive and patient can help you both cope with the impact of medical hair loss.

Wigful Thinking services a growing market need for a highly personalized approach to non-medical, non-surgical hair augmentation solutions for those driven by fun, fashion, convenience, or medical hair loss.

Contact us to schedule a consultation. We will answer all your questions and help you understand what to expect.

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February is National Cancer Prevention Month. 

According to the National Cancer Institute, the rate of cancer deaths in the United States is decreasing but approximately 38 percent of the population will be diagnosed with cancer sometime in their lives. As part of its cancer awareness and prevention efforts, the Washington DC-based American Institute of Cancer Research emphasizes that up to one-third of the most common cancers in the US are preventable. Research shows that just 5 to 10 percent of cancer cases are attributed to genes. Lifestyle and environment likely triggered the remaining 90 to 95 percent.

Wigful Thinking Wig Studio wants to share a few tips to help you in your wellness journey. Most people are probably aware of things they should do to prevent cancer such as avoiding smoking, wearing sunscreen, and getting regular screenings for colon, breast and prostate cancer. 

Here are five steps you can start taking now to increase your odds of remaining cancer-free. Many are surprisingly simple lifestyle choices.

1. Keep moving – Add more activity, such as brisk walking, to your daily routine. Walking just 30 minutes at 3 mph 5 days per week can be enough to protect you. Get on your feet while talking on the phone, doing chores, or even watching television.
2. Eat a rainbow – Eat a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.  The more colorful your plate is, the more likely it is packed with powerful cancer-fighting nutrients. Avoiding processed foods and salty foods are also beneficial.
3. Be choosey about how you hydrate – Sipping enough H2O every day is essential to overall health, but it is important to make sure the water you drink is clean and safe. Using filtered water can help.  Avoid sugary drinks and limit alcohol, if consumed at all. 
4. Select meat wisely – Processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon, and lunch meats have been classified as a carcinogen. Limiting red meat consumption such as beef, pork and lamb and making more meals using poultry and fish are good choices. Create meatless dishes using beans or eggs instead to provide the protein your diet needs.
5. De-stress – Chronic stress can weaken your immune system and potentially speed the development of tumors. Find ways to release the strains of daily life. Exercising, spending time with friends, hobbies, and music can all be ways to relax.

After treatment, cancer survivors should follow recommendations for cancer prevention from their medical caregivers.

Contact our awesome staff

The Wigful Thinking team is a family-owned passion since 2014. Caryl, the owner, is a two-time cancer survivor and understands the emotional toll on women when they lose hair and eyebrows.  Contact us for a consultation if you are experiencing medical hair loss. Our talented and compassionate staff is here to help you with all of your wig needs.

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