Many people with cancer have lost their hair from chemotherapy. Many children and adults suffer from alopecia, an autoimmune disease that is not yet very clear, both in its causes and in its treatment. Alopecia causes hair loss and is often permanent. If you have long hair you can donate it to make a wig. Here's how to do it.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Before Cutting
Step 1. Do your research
Look for organizations that make wigs for sick people. Find one that you like and find out what requirements they require for a trichotic donation. Policies vary from organization to organization and some may not even want hair.
- Two of these, Pantene and CWHL (Children With Hair Loss) accept donations from 17cm to grow. Locks of Love and Wigs for Kids want 25 to 37.
- If the hair is curly, pull it to lengthen and measure.
Step 2. Prepare your hair
Check that they are not damaged by chemicals (if you dye them often), damaged (split ends), or dirty and that they are at least 17 cm (depending on the organization). Hair like this is not accepted. So check before making an unnecessary gesture!
- There is a difference between colored and dyed hair. Each organization is different but just because you have colored hair doesn't necessarily mean you can't donate it.
- Gray hair is welcome!
Step 3. Fill out a form
Most organizations have an online form to fill out to accompany your donation. If you want to remain anonymous you can do it, but if you want to verify that your donation was successful you will have to reveal yourself.
The procedure is simple. If it takes months to get back to you, don't fret. Sometimes organizations don't have a lot of help and therefore need time to plan everything. If you are curious, you can always call to ask
Method 2 of 2: Go Under the Scissors
Step 1. Cut
Go to your hairdresser and explain your intentions well. He will measure the hair to be sure of the fit and arrange it in a soft ponytail or two braids.
The hair will be cut right above the tail ring and the hairdresser he must not drop them to the ground. Hair must be dry before being tied with a rubber band and placed in an airtight plastic bag.
Step 2. Send them
Ship them or deliver them in person to the organization of your choice. Be happy because you have helped a good cause. Consider growing them back to help them again next year.
Check that you have chosen the best way of packaging! Go to the post office and buy a padded envelope
Step 3. Spread the word
The required hair is male and female of all ages and races. Let your friends know what you will do and maybe you will inspire them.
It is estimated that around 80% of donations come from kids who want to help their peers. [1] If you know someone who may be interested, tell them
Advice
- It takes multiple donations to make a wig.
- Remember that in the end it's just hair - it will grow back.
- In some places, if you donate them they will cut them for free so if you don't know where to go, look for a partner salon. Sometimes it is the organizations themselves that cut them.
- If you are still in school, the school itself may host a fundraiser that will give you the opportunity to do this.
- Usually people who have permanent hair loss (e.g. from alopecia) have priority over those who have a less permanent one (i.e. those who have lost them due to cancer treatments).
- Are you sure you want to do this?
Warnings
- Check carefully if the organization you want to donate your hair to has standards that are right for you.
- In their industry, some charities donate the hair they receive to make commercial wigs. Search reputable sites to find the best organization.
- Whether you donate your hair or whatever, always do research on the entity you choose. Some may in fact use the money for "overhead costs rather than for charitable purposes. Some may have practices or policies that are contrary to yours or may be outright scams."
- Fallen hair is not acceptable for a donation.
