Only some types of chemotherapy cause hair loss and even with these drugs things can sometimes be done (like the use of scalp cooling whilst the drugs are given) which may reduce or even completely prevent any hair loss. Having said this some people will still lose most or all of their hair during chemotherapy and will want a wig to wear until their hair regrows.

Currently you are entitled to a free wig on the NHS if you are a patient in hospital when the wig is supplied. You can also have a free wig if you, or your partner, are claiming Income Support, Family Credit, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Disability Working Allowance. Children, and young adults up to the age of 19 in full-time education, are also entitled to free wigs following cancer treatment.

The department of Health leaflet HC11 Are you entitled to help with health costs? can tell you whether you are able to have a free wig from the NHS. You can get a copy of the leaflet from your post office or the staff at the hospital. If you are not entitled to a free wig you can still get one from the hospital at a subsidised rate: the hospital staff will give you a form to give to the wig supplier to offset the cost. The procedure is explained in the department of Health leaflet HC12 NHS charges and optical voucher values.

You may prefer to choose a wig from a hairdresser or wig supplier, although this can be a bit more expensive. VAT (Value Added Tax) does not have to be paid on wigs when hair loss is caused by cancer treatment. You will need to fill in a VAT form, which most shops will give to you. at the time of purchase. The tax cannot be claimed back at a later date.

If you are not entitled to a free wig, other financial help may be available. Macmillan cancer Relief often gives money towards the cost of a wig, but the application must be made through your doctor or social worker.

You are entitled to a new wig (paid for by the NHS) every 6 months, if necessary.

The cost of wigs varies depending on the sort of wig you have and the length of hair required. Wigs are made of human or synthetic hair (monofibre), or a mixture of both. Prices range from about £50 to £1000 or more, with human hair being the most expensive.