Sometimes hair begins to grow back before the end of chemotherapy. This does not mean that the drugs are not working! It is just more evidence that everyone is different. As your hair grows in, it will probably be curly (even if you have always had straight hair). It may straighten out as it gets longer and the weight pulls it down, or you may have wavy or curly hair for the rest of your life. The color, too, may be different—obviously you may have more gray than you remember, but some women report different shades of brown or blond. Consider other coloring options, too. You may decide to dye your hair a new shade you have never tried before. Or you may wish to experiment with a different hairstyle and color as you reconsider your new self-image. Consider this time an opportunity for refashioning yourself. Here are some tips for appropriate headgear:
? Big works best! Scarves should be at least forty inches square. In spite of what you may be told, there is no such thing as too big.
? Rayon is the fabric of choice. It clings to itself, drapes nicely, can be washed. Cotton is a good second option.
? Silk scarves are lovely second layers but slip right off bald heads!
? Fringed scarves can be used very successfully, and the movement of the fringe is reminiscent of hair.
? Look in fabric stores for material to use as scarves; you may find greater choice and many more bargains than in department stores. Buying fabric is cheaper than buying scarves. Don’t bother to hem the pieces; simply tuck the edges in.
? Check out the scarf selection, too, at stores selling clothing from India or other import shops.
? Remember the possibilities of layering. Use a solid-color rayon scarf as the first layer, then top it with a print silk or cotton scarf twisted into a rope and wound around your head. Or top the bottom layer with an attractive, colorful man’s tie, a fabric belt, ribbons, or a hat over a scarf.
? Try putting pretty pins on your scarf or turban.
? Cotton bandannas can be sewn together to make informal, inexpensive (and big enough) colorful scarves.
? This is the moment to experiment with big earrings and maybe a bit more lip color and makeup than usual.
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