Hina Khan shares emotional video of getting her hair chopped after cancer diagnosis: ‘Decided to use my own hair to make a nice wig’

As many cancer patients face hair loss due to treatment, Khan decided to “let go of my beautiful hair before it starts falling off.” In a video shared on Thursday morning, Khan is seen sitting in front of a mirror with hair stylist Dwyessh Parasanani, prepared to get her hair chopped off. In the background, while she is getting her hair sectioned and braided, her mother can be heard crying as she tries to cheer her up.

Parasanani gives Khan a pair of scissors so she can cut the front section by herself and then proceeds to give her a haircut. At the end of the video, Khan reveals that she feels “liberated.”

In the caption, she mentions that she has chosen to have a wig made from her hair, a process that offers both practical and emotional benefits. “I have decided to use my own hair to make a nice wig for this phase,” she writes.

Wig-making is an intricate craft that provides comfort and confidence to those experiencing hair loss for various reasons. From the initial hair donation to the final styling, the creation of these wigs involves meticulous techniques, resulting in natural-looking, personalised hairpieces that can make a significant difference in a person’s life.

Creating a custom wig from your own hair: The step-by-step process

Dr Gunasekar Vuppalapati, senior aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon at GVG Invivo Hospital, Bengaluru said, “The process of creating a custom wig from a person’s own hair is a meticulous and artistic endeavour. It begins with a consultation where the individual’s needs and preferences are discussed, including desired style, length, and colour. Next, the hair is carefully collected, typically requiring multiple sessions to gather enough hair for a full wig. The collected hair is then sorted and cleaned to remove any debris or impurities.”

Dr Vuppalapati adds, “After the hair is attached to the cap, it is styled and cut according to the individual’s desired look. This may involve cutting, layering, colouring, or perming the hair to achieve the desired style. The final result is a custom-made wig that perfectly replicates the individual’s natural hair, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort during a challenging time.”

Quality and durability of a wig made from one’s own hair versus other types

According to Dr Vuppalapati, wigs made from a person’s own hair offer superior quality and durability compared to synthetic options. “Human hair wigs look and feel more natural, with a texture and movement that closely mimic real hair. They can be styled, cut, and coloured just like natural hair, offering greater versatility.”

In terms of durability, he states, human hair wigs can last for several years with proper care and maintenance, while synthetic wigs typically have a shorter lifespan. Human hair wigs are also more resistant to heat and styling damage, making them a more long-term investment for those seeking a natural and durable hair replacement solution.

 For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that cause hair loss, wearing a wig made from their own hair can offer significant psychological benefits. (Source: Freepik)

Psychological benefits for cancer patients of wearing a wig made from their own hair

For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that cause hair loss, wearing a wig made from their own hair can offer significant psychological benefits. Dr Vuppalapati says, “It can help restore a sense of normalcy and identity, boosting self-esteem and confidence. Seeing themselves with their own hair, even in the form of a wig, can provide a sense of control and continuity during a time of significant change and uncertainty.”

Special care or maintenance requirements

Wigs made from natural hair require specific care and maintenance to preserve their quality and longevity, asserts Dr Vuppalapati. They should be washed gently with sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for human hair wigs. Regular conditioning is essential to prevent dryness and tangling. Avoid using excessive heat or harsh styling products, as these can damage the hair and shorten the wig’s lifespan.

He continues, “It’s also important to store the wig properly when not in use. A wig stand or mannequin head can help maintain its shape and prevent tangling. Additionally, regular professional maintenance, such as cleaning, styling, and re-tightening of the hair, can ensure that the wig continues to look its best and provide long-lasting comfort and confidence.”