Hair loss support

Hair Loss Support offers practical guidance to help you navigate hair loss, regrowth, wigs, and headwear options during cancer treatment in a way that feels right for you. From understanding what to expect to exploring simple ways to care for your scalp and style your look, these classes help you feel more prepared, confident, and more like yourself through every stage of change.

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Wig Advice and Care

Losing your hair during cancer treatment can feel overwhelming and deeply personal, but it doesn’t define who you are. A wig can help restore a sense of familiarity and confidence when things feel unfamiliar. In this session, you’ll learn how to choose, fit, style, and care for a wig, with practical advice on comfort, security, and what makes a good fit for you. You’ll leave feeling more confident navigating wig options and wearing one in a way that feels natural and right for you.

Managing Hair Loss & Regrowth

Hair loss and regrowth during cancer treatment can feel unpredictable, and knowing what to expect can make it feel more manageable. This practical class gives you clear, expert guidance on when to cut your hair, how to care for your scalp, and what products can help support comfort along the way. You’ll also learn simple styling tips and what regrowth may look and feel like. You’ll leave feeling more prepared, more in control, and more supported through each stage.

Scarf Tying and Headwear

Losing your hair can change how you feel about your appearance, but it doesn’t mean losing your style or expression. This step-by-step class shows you how to tie scarves and other headwear into simple, wearable styles that suit you day-to-day. You’ll follow along and practice easy techniques that help you feel more confident trying different looks, in a supportive space. You’ll leave with practical ways to create headwear that feels comfortable, stylish, and more like you.

Other Online Topics

Skin support

Skin Support | Cancer Support NZ

Practical skincare and appearance support to help you manage treatment-related changes and care for your skin with confidence.

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Mind support

Mind Support | Cancer Support NZ

Support to ease stress, build resilience, and support lymphatic health through mindfulness, breathwork and gentle techniques.

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Body support

Body Support | Cancer Support NZ

Gentle, body-focused support to build strength, improve comfort, and support lymphatic health as you reconnect with your body.

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What our participants have shared

“I was truly impressed with the Hair Loss and Regrowth class. I gained so much valuable knowledge and practical advice, leaving me feeling confident about caring for my hair moving forward. Highly recommend! “

See our participants stories

See our participants stories

“This was one of the most incredible discoveries, it came at a time where losing my hair was possibly even harder than getting a cancer diagnosis. It was an amazing source of confidence. And for me it absolutely changed my cancer experience"

Emma's Story

Frequently asked questions

plus minus What is Hair Loss Support?

Hair Loss Support classes provide practical guidance to help you manage hair loss, regrowth, wigs, and headwear during cancer treatment in a way that feels right for you.

plus minus Who is Hair Loss Support for?

Hair Loss Support is for anyone experiencing hair thinning, hair loss, or regrowth during cancer treatment or recovery, or anyone exploring wigs or headwear options.

plus minus What topics are covered in Hair Loss Support classes?

Classes cover hair loss and regrowth, scalp care, wigs, scarves, turbans, and other headwear options, along with practical styling advice.

plus minus Will my hair always fall out during cancer treatment?

Not all treatments cause full hair loss. Some may cause thinning or partial loss depending on the type of treatment.

With advances in technology, such as cooling caps, hair loss may be minimised.

plus minus Where can I donate my hair for wigs?

Freedom Wigs in Dunedin purchases or accepts high-quality hair for wig making. Visit www.freedomwigs.com or phone 03 477 7575 for more information.

plus minus Can I donate my wig to Cancer Support NZ?

Wigs cannot be accepted due to hygiene reasons. Some cancer charities or hospices may accept wig donations.

plus minus Is there financial support for wigs or headwear?

Yes. Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora provides a subsidy to help cover the cost of wigs, hairpieces, and headwear if you experience hair loss due to treatment. A registered health practitioner will need to confirm your hair loss, and your supplier can often arrange the claim for you.

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Some charities in New Zealand also offer wig libraries, where wigs may be loaned or hired at low or no cost. These services are often provided through organisations such as the Cancer Society, which supports people affected by cancer in different regions across the country. Availability can vary by location, but your oncology team, nurse, or local support service can help you find out what is available near you and guide you through the process.

plus minus Can I listen to advice about hair loss before it happens?

Yes. Hair Loss Support can help you prepare in advance so you know what to expect and what options are available.

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