Coping with
hair loss
Medical wigs, hair integration,
hats and turbans. For all
medical hair loss conditions.
Wigs by Haircreations is devoted
to meeting the needs of women
experiencing hair loss.
because not all wigs are created equal
Designers and Distributors
www.wigs.co.nz
Your Choice for Beautiful Hair
Our wigs are designed in different styles for comfort,
natural beauty and security. They come in a variety of
lengths and colours to suit any woman’s needs.
We also offer a selection of turbans and hats
specifically designed for hair loss conditions.
What's Inside?
03
Introduction
04
Choices for coping with hair loss
05
Commonly asked questions on key
hair loss conditions:
Wigs by Haircreations is ACC
and Ministry of Health provider
approved.
We work with “Look Good Feel
Better” across New Zealand
(www.lgfb.co.nz).
Wigs by Haircreations also works
closely with the Cancer Society of
NZ (www.cancernz.org.nz).
The wig you purchase will be
your only hair for the next
few months at least.
Chemotherapy and hair loss
How important is it that you
get it right?
Radiotherapy and hair loss
Very important!
Scalp issues
Alopecia
Other hair loss conditions
11
Questions and Answers
12
Determining your medical grant
and if you qualify for ACC cover
13
What you can expect from us
14
Our last thoughts...
15
Contact us
03
Losing your hair can have a very strong
emotional impact
Many women, given the news by their Oncologist/
Dermatologist that they will lose their hair, panic
buy, believing that a “wig is a wig”. But it’s not the
right thing to do – hasty decisions lead, too often,
to the client never wearing the wig they used their
grant on!
Many wigs are made for fashion – low quality and
design – and are completely inappropriate for
hair loss of a medical nature.
You need professional advice to get the right
result. We have 30+ years’ experience and hold
the largest volume of wigs in New Zealand. This
document is designed to specifically assist you
to gather information on wigs and prosthetic hair
integration and also headwear. We also answer
many commonly asked questions regarding
options available to you across the country.
Wigs by Haircreations heads up a network of
appointed agents around New Zealand, who
have been professionally trained to work with
medical and genetic hair loss clients. Together
we provide you with the widest possible choice of
modern styles from Europe – wigs that are natural
in appearance, lightweight, and well ventilated,
with exceptional foundation features that promote
and support scalp tissue health.
You are welcome to visit our website,
www.wigs.co.nz, or better still come for a
consultation where we will give you more
in-depth information.
It is important to know that at Wigs by
Haircreations (and its agents), we are here to
look after you through the term of your hair loss,
and provide a full back-up service until you once
again have your own hair.
04
So, what are my choices for coping?
We say that not all wigs
are created equal...
... based on our long international experience.
We hand choose wigs specifically designed for
the hair loss client.
Most clients choose to wear a wig or hats
and scarves. Protection against the sun and
cold is important, as is your appearance.
We understand the trauma of losing your hair
and the importance of looking good – so a quality
wig allows you to carry on with your busy life,
self-esteem intact.
We are hair replacement designers and
distributors of medical wigs, holding exclusive
Australasian distributorship of the Raquel
Welch European Collection of wigs and Ellen
Wille Collection from Germany. Both brands are
considered the cream of the crop when it comes
to innovativeness, design, natural and up-to-the
minute looks.
For our clients, that represents a fantastic variety
of light weight, ventilated and amazing wigs,
designed and distributed specifically for the
medical market and reﬂecting perfectly your
hair type.
In the pages that follow we will outline some
specific hair loss situations and endeavor to
ease your mind when it comes to the thought of
having to wear a wig. We provide you with positive
solutions to your very personal situation.
05
Commonly asked questions
06
Commonly asked questions
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
How will the treatment you undergo affect hair loss?
Radiotherapy treats cancer cells by using high-energy rays, which unfortunately
cause some damage to the hair when applied to the head. Only radiotherapy
directly to the head area causes hair loss in the immediate area of treatment
– entry point and exit point. Undergoing radiotherapy (partial or whole brain)
will incur some serious hair loss. Hair regeneration is much slower than
with chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a treatment used to fight cancer cells causing temporary hair loss.
Unfortunately, during the treatment process healthy cells, which include hair follicles
(the hair roots), can be disrupted. This means hair loss or sometimes hair thinning.
How much hair will I lose?
This will depend on the dosage and type of drugs used. Sometimes the effects
on your hair are very little, but it is important to be prepared. Ask your doctor
who will advise you on what to expect. However, even if you lose 20% of your
hair, you still may become very conscious of thinning and feel quite bald anyway.
We believe it is better to have a “safety net” in place i.e. knowing that you have
tried and found a wig that is great for you just in case you need it.
How soon can I expect hair loss?
For some this may start within a few days of
the first treatment. By the second treatment
most women who have been advised they
will lose their hair will experience hair loss.
Partial or complete hair loss can be expected.
We will inform you more about this at time of
consultation.
Will it grow back?
Yes. Once you have completed the treatment
you can expect hair to start regenerating in
about a month. It will usually take three to five
months to attain a reasonable head of hair.
How much will I lose?
This varies from person to person, depending on duration and intensity of treatment
i.e. from loss at points of entry and exit, to whole
scalp treatment incurring total hair loss.
How soon will I lose my hair?
This can vary greatly. In some cases hair loss is not
experienced until treatment is completed.
Will it grow back?
In most cases it doesn’t grow back as thick.
Unfortunately some patients experience very little
re-growth. Most of these people choose to wear a wig
for aesthetic reasons, or a custom-made hair integration
(we can advise and help with both). More in-depth
information will be given at time of consultation.
07
Commonly asked questions
08
Commonly asked questions
Scalp issues
Alopecia
Tumor removal can cause serious scalp tissue damage. This may mean the patient
is left with a small or substantial area that will not produce hair, and in some cases
is also unsightly to the patient.
Alopecia is probably the most common hair loss disorder among women and men
today, other than genetic thinning. It’s perhaps a word you’ve never heard of prior
to being diagnosed, and one you would rather not know. However, with today’s
stressful lifestyles, alopecia, either partial or complete, is on the increase. Health
funding is available for most alopecia conditions.
What to do?
Well, a simple option is a medical mono wig in human or synthetic hair. However,
there are also other options for the patient/client who has no desire or need to wear
a wig for the rest of their life.
Custom hair integration
These pictures will tell the story better than words.
These are specifically designed to infill the damaged region only, integrating
perfectly with the clients existing hair. Made from human hair, they are styled
along with your own hair. They are lightweight and ventilated to maintain optimum
scalp tissue health. Obligation-free consultations are available to discuss all the
options. There is also a medical grant available to help offset some of the costs of
permanent hair loss.
Alopecia areata - Alopecia areata manifests as circular patches of hair loss from
the scalp. Irrespective of treatments (or not), hair will, in most cases, re-grow again
given a healthy lifestyle and time. Often, this kind of alopecia will move around the
head – so loss and re-growth in one area, followed by hair loss in another area.
Alopecia totalis - Alopecia totalis means a very significant (or complete) hair
loss, not only from the scalp but body also. Recovery from this form of alopecia is
sometimes possible if careful management of stress levels and life style changes
are made.
Are there any cures?
To our knowledge and in spite of frequent claims, we are unaware of any major break
through in the treatment of alopecia, it really is a case of time heals. Talk first to your
GP or dermatologist. Do NOT invest in doubtful claims – if there was a product on the
market that grew your hair, no one would be bald!
Left: Scar tissue from crown to near
the nape. Visible from the side and back.
Right: The custom hair integration is
completely undetectable. A great natural look!
Topically applied treatments:
Very dubious claims are made without
medical proof. So true or false? False!
We have found the simplest solution for
alopecia is replacing your hair loss with an
appropriate wig or hairpiece. This alleviates
some of the stress of trying to “hide” hair
loss. Unlike some other hair replacement
companies, you do not need to shave off your
existing hair for our prosthetic wigs or hair
integration systems.
Top/Crown diffused thinning – can be
genetic or Alopecia conditions.
Back and nape alopecia areata.
09
Commonly asked questions
10
Commonly asked questions
Other hair loss conditions
Other hair loss conditions
There are many reasons a person may suffer hair loss. As previously outlined
there are medical factors such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and alopecia, but
there are also other reasons. We have many clients with the following reasons for
hair loss:
Genetic thinning (male & female pattern baldness)
Accident and burns
These are generally covered by ACC. We have many clients with scalp scar tissue
damage precluding regeneration of new hair. Often we design prosthetic “in-fill
pieces” that work beautifully with existing hair so there is no need to wear a wig.
However, where full hair loss exists, special custom designing for a full prosthetic
wig is required. We quote directly to ACC in your region.
Trichotillomania
A debilitating disorder, where the client “plucks” their own hair – often to the point
where they become so withdrawn they are unwilling to leave their home. We have
clients whom we have helped with a medical wig, so that whilst not treating the
disorder, the client can have the confidence to continue with other aspects of
their life.
Surgery
Surgery to the scalp leaving scar tissue that precludes hair growth in that region.
(See previous section on scalp issues).
This condition affects women as well as men. We have a fantastic in-house
design which integrates perfectly with your existing hair, giving you the freedom to
style your hair as you like, without having to wear a full wig. Once again, there is
absolutely no need to shave any portion of your existing hair – as many other hair
replacement companies will insist you have to do!
If your self image is being affected because of hair thinning or hair loss, we want
you to know that we can help! You will be treated with dignity and respect. When
it comes to hair loss, there are no surprises for us – we see people for all sorts of
reasons. However, not all situations are the same and not all clients require the
same thing, so the best thing we can do for you, is to show you options that will
give you realistic and attainable solutions for your individual needs.
In conclusion: do not ignore your situation. Act now and give yourself time to work
through solutions to your hair loss without adding further stress to your life.
11
Questions & Answers
12
Determining your Medical Grant
What type of wigs do you stock?
What is the Wigs and Hairpieces grant?
Only medical wigs, made specifically with the medical hair loss client in mind. These
include handmade, machine made, synthetic fibre and human hair wigs.
The grant is payment from the Ministry of Health to put towards the purchase of
a wig, a hairpiece or headwear for clients who suffer from serious hair loss issues
because of a medical condition. ACC most commonly covers hair loss caused by
accidents and burns. In that case, we quote directly to ACC.
Which wig is best for me?
Let’s reiterate that not all wigs are created equal. Wigs need to be tailored to suit a
client’s individual needs, and the ethnic make-up of our population calls for individual
attention. Each wig has certain benefits, but if we were to bullet point the main points
we would say:
» A wig must fit the client exactly – front to nape, ear point to ear point. If it doesn’t you
will never wear it, because you won’t trust it to stay on.
» Its foundation must be lightweight with a smooth finish to be comfortable and allow
your scalp to breathe.
» The hair or fibre must be realistic and in keeping with the volume of hair you are used
to having.
» Realistic highlighting of the hair (fibre) is required to be in keeping with today’s styling.
What to look for and what to avoid when looking for a wig?
Don’t buy a fashion wig – the bases are heavy and the fibre cheap – it will not last the
distance, and visually presents badly!
» Buyer beware when buying on line – what the wig looks like on a model under proper
lighting, with hairstylists and makeup artists in tow, will be completely different to what
it looks like on you at home.
» Don’t buy a wig without trying it on to make sure the hair density and colour suit you,
and the base size not only fits and looks the part, but is also comfortable to wear.
» Arm yourself with information – ask questions i.e. Do you cut/style the wigs? Are you
qualified hairdressers? Do you custom size the bases? Is there any back up service?
If the answer is no to any of the above, you are quite likely to experience some
problems post-purchase.
What you need to know about Wigs and Hairpiece service payments.
See the full details on the Ministry of Health Website:
www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/sectorservices-claims-wigs
Who can claim the grant?
You may claim it if you have a medical condition that has caused
you to lose your hair (like treatment for cancer, alopecia or other
scalp conditions that cause hair loss). Your specialist or general
practitioner (GP) needs to give you a current medical certificate
with your NHI number, details of the hair loss condition and
stating whether it is permanent or temporary.
How much can I claim?
The grant varies depending on whether you are an adult
18 years or over, and whether your condition is permanent
or temporary. We will advise you how much you are entitled to.
How do I claim?
We will action your grant personally at your request.
Wigs by Haircreations is an approved MOH and ACC Provider
and deals with all the paperwork for the MOH and ACC on
behalf of clients.
13
What you can expect from us
Wigs by Haircreations has been in the medical hair loss market for more than
30 years and through experience and with ongoing up-skilling and training we
can honestly say, we know our stuff! We do not just “sell you a wig” – we provide
you with information so that you can make the best decision for yourself. You may
want to come for 2-3 visits before you feel comfortable with the decision you are
going to make, and that’s fine by us.
How much will it cost?
Our consultations are free, but wigs vary in price. Cost is determined by how
the wig is constructed – i.e. is a qualified designer involved? Is it hair or fibre?
Handmade or machine made? We will be very clear through the consultation
process about what these options may mean to you. With knowledge you will
be empowered to make better decisions for yourself.
14
Our last thoughts...
We respect your need for privacy. Should it be necessary, we can arrange a visit
to you in hospital or where possible at home if you are bed-ridden or immobile.
We take great pleasure in helping our clients on that first step to recovery.
Although Wigs by Haircreations distributes wigs throughout New Zealand, we are
nevertheless a family company who have a genuine concern for you and your
appearance. We understand the emotional nature of losing your hair due to illness
and will do everything in our power to ensure you are well looked after regarding
your hair loss needs.
Please call for an obligation-free consultation, and we will give you all the
information you require to make an informed decision. Some of the conditions
described in this booklet are covered by ACC or by a Ministry of Health funded
grant. We will advise you accordingly.
We are looking forward to assisting you.
because not all wigs are created equal
Contact Us:
Auckland
Wigs By Haircreations Ltd
34 Karaka Street,
PO Box 68932, Newton
Auckland 1010
Tel: 09 357 6159
Mob: 021 733 508
[email protected]
www.wigs.co.nz
Northland / Whangarei
Hair Razing Design
5 Tui Crescent
Maunu, Whangarei 0110
Ph: 09-438-7289
Waikato/Thames/
Rotorua
Wigs By Haircreations
Robyn Creighton
Ph: 07-827-8808
Mob: 027 291 2000
Tauranga
Tudor Wigs at Mazzahn
Rhonda Jensen
Ph: 07-578-6644
Mob: 027 4787 893
Taupo
Jenny Mason
Ph: 07-378-3223
Mob: 027 378 3220
Gisborne
Nelson
Napier
Blenheim
Di’s Hair & Wig Specialists
5 Tennyson Street
Napier 4110
Ph: 06-835-8427
Bella Donna Lingerie
16 Market Street
Blenheim 7201
Ph: 03-578-0273
New Plymouth
Christchurch / Timaru
Hairtherapy
Judy Graham
Ph: 06-867-4596
Shampoo Shop & Salon
48 Devon Street
on the Hill
New Plymouth 4310
Ph: 06-758-6003
Hawera
Naturally Unique
Ph: 06-278-8825
Palmerston North
Wigs By Haircreations
Carmel Drysdale
Ph: 06-355-2466
Mob: 0274 422 763
Wellington
Image Works
Christine Gill
Mob: 021-548-950
8 Rotherham Street
Riccarton
Christchurch 8041
Ph: 03-343-4093
Mob: 0274 355 560
Dunedin
Hair Care Market
Albion Place
Dunedin 9016
Ph: 03-477-7390
Invercargill
Headquarters Hairdressing
18 Don Street
Invercargill 9810
Ph: 03-218-2292
Leigh Renai
Ph: 04-475-8185
Mob: 027 244 1538
© Copyright Wigs by Haircreations Ltd. All rights reserved.