FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is It’s Still Me?

It’s Still Me is owned by myself, a breast cancer survivor who has experienced the emotional trauma and stress related to losing my hair due to chemotherapy.  It was undoubtedly a very distressing experience.  It is my desire to share my own personal journey in an effort to offer hope help and understanding to women who are facing hair loss.

Why Choose It’ Still Me?

It’s Still Me Wig Studio offers an intimate setting to discuss the emotional aspects of hair loss, as well as offering a large selection of wigs and related products as well as hair accessories.  My goal is to provide all that is necessary in making the wig journey as simple and complete as possible
It’s Still Me’s Commitment To Service:
I specialize in personalized service and wigs that are custom fit to each individual.  Without the ability to try on wigs, it is difficult to determine the quality, fit, color or style.  I believe it is important to have a chance to physically examine and try on your wig before you purchase it.

Why The Name It’s Still Me?

I gave my business a name that would appeal to the emotional needs of women who are facing everyday life without their signature trademark, their hair.  I felt the need to have  people know I was still the same person even though physically I looked different.

I Am Losing My Hair Due To Chemotherapy.  Do I Need A Wig?

No you don’t.  There are a minority of women who will not wear a wig during their treatment and are extremely comfortable with that decision.  I admire and support that completely.
My own personal feelings were that I felt more comfortable wearing a wig.  It made me feel more positive and better about myself. I felt I could blend into the crowd rather than feel self-conscious wherever I went.  Sometimes a friend or family member may have trouble coping with the situation and wearing a wig stops it from being a constant reminder to them.  The choice is yours.  You need to do what you feel most happy and comfortable with.  

I Don’t Know Anything About Wigs:  Can You Give Me Some Information?

When selecting a wig, you want it to look natural, fit properly and be comfortable.  To this end wig makers have devised innovative and diverse manufacturing techniques to make wigs.  Synthetic wigs now look as natural as human hair wigs and they actually have a wider variety of styles and colors. Wigs come in three sizes and almost all wigs now have some sort of adjustable tabs to assure the wearer a good fit. Wig comfort is the area that most affects the wearer and has the most diversity.
One of the most desirable of wig types is the monofilament wig.  It is one step above the hand tied wig and comes the closest to looking like real hair.  It gives the appearance that the hair is actually growing from the scalp.  Each hair or fiber is tied into an ultra fine sheer mesh base.  The cap is specially woven to allow for comfort and excellent ventilation.  With a monofilament top, the hair appears to be growing out of the scalp. Monofilament wigs can be styled in any direction and parted anyway you like.  If you wear a wig every day, the monofilament wig’s comfort, superior wearability and natural look more than justify its cost.  Both synthetic and human hair wigs offer the monofilament as an option.

Will Everyone Be Able To Tell I Am Wearing A Wig?

I specialize in having you feel confident that your wig will look just like real hair growing naturally from your scalp.  When choosing a wig, look for the following features:
High quality fibers:  Low grade synthetic hairs can look thick and plastic,-like doll hair.  Good quality hair will feel silky and move like human hair.
Hand-tied scalps:  Hand-tied or monofilament wigs offer a fine, transparent mesh to which individual hairs are tied, allowing your own scalp to show through and creating the appearance that the hairs are naturally growing from your head.  A lace front wig allows the hair to be brushed straight back from the forehead for a completely natural look
Customization:  It is very important to have your wig professionally fit, cut and styled.  Having your wig customized to fit your head properly and cut and styled to flatter your facial features will make a big difference.
Proper Care:  Make sure you use the proper styling products and techniques when taking care of your wig.  Heat, friction, over styling, or using the wrong products can make your wig look dull or frizzy.

Which Is Better-Human Hair or Synthetic?

Neither is really “better” – both have great features and the best choice will depend on your preferences and lifestyle.
Synthetic wigs are popular because of their convenience (shake and go styling), and are less expensive than human hair.  A high quality synthetic wig will look and move just like human hair.
Human hair wigs, on the other hand, are more versatile than synthetics:  they can be styled with curling irons and blow dryers.  Human hair also has a great silky texture, and are more durable than synthetics-especially in the longer styles.

Aren’t Wigs Hot, Itchy and Uncomfortable?

Like anything else, there are different quality wigs.  Cheap fashion wigs are not designed to be worn over a delicate bare scalp.  It’s Still Me specializes in high quality hand-tied prosthesis, which unlike traditional wigs, are designed for women with hair loss. They feature soft, breathable base material which feels light and cool against the scalp.  Because I custom fit wigs to your individual head shape and size, they fit comfortably and securely without sliding, scratching or feeling too large or small. 

How Much Do Wigs Cost?

Wig prices vary greatly – for $30 for a costume wig to $3000 or more for a custom made human hair wig.  And, as with most things, you get what you pay for.  A cheap wig will look and feel cheap. However, it is not necessary to spend thousands to have a good wig.
If you are just buying a wig as a fashion accessory, an inexpensive wig can be fun.  If you need a wig for hair loss, it is wise to invest in a good wig what you would ordinarily spend on your own hair.  For instance, if you are going to need a wig for 6 months of chemotherapy, and additional 6 months of ‘growing out’-consider what you would have spent at the salon during that period.  If you spend $50 every 6 weeks for a cut and color, your hair budget is about $400-which will buy you a nice wig.
As a rule of thumb, expect to pay about $100 – $200 for a high quality machine made wig.  A monofilament wig will usually cost between $250 – $400, and a hand tied wig $300 – $650.  A good quality human hair wig will start at around $500. 

How Many Wigs Will I Need?

A short synthetic wig will generally last for 6-12 months or longer and a human hair wig 1 – 2 years if properly cared for. One wig will usually last the duration of your treatment, however, some opt to choose 2 or more wigs.  There are several reasons to consider.  You can choose 2 identical or very similar styles, and alternate them to extend their lifespan.   Some choose one high quality wig as their main wig and a less expensive wig as a back-up, or to use during sports or gardening etc.  And others choose several different styles just for fun.

How Do I Wash My Wig?

Synthetic:
  1. Fill your sink basin with cool water.
  2. Add a capful of synthetic wig shampoo and blend in.  Never use regular shampoo on synthetic wigs!  If the wig has picked up the odor or smoke or other strong odors, you may add a teaspoon of baking soda to your basin and blend in.
  3. Gently swish the wig in the water for about 30 second to a minute until saturated.  Gently scrub the front of the wig cap, where it meets the forehead until clean.
  4. Leave the wig soak in the basin for about 15 minutes.
  5. Empty the basin of water and rinse the wig in cool water.  It is very important to use cool water on curly wigs, as warm water will over-relax the curls.
  6. Gently squeeze out excess water.  Do not rub or twist.
  7. Spread the wig out on a towel and leave in a ventilated area to dry overnight. You should spray on a little leave-on conditioner, when you start the drying process.
  8. When the wig is entirely dry and not before,  re-style the wig gently.  Shaking and fluffing by hand is your best starting point for styling.  I recommend a pick and not a brush.  Do not use regular shampoo.  I offer a good quality wig shampoo and conditioner.
Human Hair:
Follow the same seven  steps as above using lukewarm water instead of cool and the manufacturer’s prescribed shampoo and conditioner for your human hair wig.
Wigs may be set in rollers if desired and placed under a dryer or left overnight to dry at your disgression.  A hot curling iron may be used on human hair wigs.

How Often Should I Wash My Wig?

Wash your wig as little as possible.  Think of it like a fine cashmere sweater.  Depending on the wig’s environment, washing will vary from every 12 wearings to every 25.  Use your eyes and nose to determine this.

Do I Need To Purchase Wig Care Products?

Wig care products are important to keep your wig looking good and give it longevity.  You will need a wig shampoo, conditioner, wig brush and wig drying/storing rack to maintain your wig.  Do not use normal hair shampoos etc on your wig as some of these contain ingredients such as oil, alcohol and other products that can damage or coat the wig fibers which will cause your wig to take on a ‘shaggy’ look, thus shortening your wig’s life.  

Can I Use A Blow Drier or Curling Iron On My Wig?

Synthetic:
No Blow Dryer!  Excessive heat will melt or frizz the fiber.
Human Hair:
Yes, a hot curling iron may be used. The better method is to set them on rollers and use a hairdrier to set the curls.

Do I Need An Appointment To Visit It’s Still Me?

Yes, you do need to make an appointment to visit my studio for a wig consultation and fitting.  You will receive an uninterrupted, private consultation.  My consultations are free and there is never an obligation to purchase.  Feel free to bring a family member or friend as support.  My regular business hours are Monday -Friday 9:00a.m to 5:00 pm. and Saturday by appointment.

Will Insurance Cover My Wig?

If you need to wear a wig because of medical reasons like Alopecia and cancer-related therapy, the “wig” should be called a “cranial hair prosthesis” for insurance purposes.  Your physician should be able to supply all the details and make the referral for the purchase of  your “hair prosthesis”. 
When receiving your hair prosthesis, have your  wig provider  complete an invoice for a “cranial hair prosthesis” NOT a wig and use the following guidelines for filing an insurance claim.
  • Check the benefits of your insurance.  There should be a section under “covered expenses” relating to prosthesis, prosthetic devices or medical durable equipment. Most companies don’t spell out exclusions so pay attention to the actual coverage.  This will help your case
  • Make sure to complete the insurance form and have it signed by your physician
  • Request that your physician write a “prescription” for a “full cranial prostheses” (not a wig) and a letter explaining hair loss and it’s effects.  It isn’t just for cosmetic reasons but for emotional well-being. 
  • Keep copies of your sales receipts or invoices for your cranial prosthesis.  (Portions of unpaid items by insurance are tax deductible)
  • Enclose a letter to the insurance company stating the necessity of a prosthesis
Additional Suggestions:
  • Include a letter from your employer
  • Take pictures of yourself without hair
  • Hand write a letter detailing the emotional effects that your condition has had on your life
  • Bring a copy of your prescription and paid bill to the American Cancer Society for partial reimbursement
These steps are for reference.  Remember to follow the procedures outlined by your insurance company to receive the fullest benefits possible.  Most companies cover between 80%- 100%.  Individual insurance companies as well as the state insurance board (each state varies) may have other or additional steps to complete
If you don’t have insurance contact your state or county agencies.  The county department of social services offers medical assistance in most states for individuals who meet certain income guidelines. 
Insurance companies are realizing cranial hair prosthesis are more and more necessary for recovery from Alopecia and cancer treatments.