It’s no secret that having cancer can change a woman’s appearance. Dry, irritated, blemished skin, brittle nails and hair loss are some of the most common problems women face. Without cosmetic coping skills, all these changes can wreak havoc on even the most confident woman’s self-esteem.

To the rescue

Look Good...Feel Better (LGFB), is a free national support program for women undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment. The program has been offered since 1989, through a partnership with the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association Foundation, the American Cancer Society and the National Cosmetology Association.

At group sessions, patients receive personalized skincare, nail care and makeup tips from trained volunteer cosmetologists, and complimentary cosmetic kits to suit their skin tone. The program also demonstrates options for dealing with hair loss. Though in high-fashion circles, wigs and hairpieces have become trendy, for most women, selecting a wig is still a mystery. In addition to full wigs, there are bangs, falls, ponytails and side pieces to wear with hats and head wraps. Synthetic and human hair wigs are equally durable and can be matched to your own hair color and cut into any hairstyle.

Many women prefer synthetic wigs because they are easier to maintain, hold their set longer, dry faster after washing, and are far less expensive than "real hair" wigs, which take several months to produce. High-quality human hair wigs, on the other hand, are made by hand, with strands of hair individually tied into the wig, for a more natural look. You can set human hair wigs as often as real hair, and you can also use curling irons and blow dryers on them, that would melt a synthetic wig.

Go to a professional the first time to trim and set your wig, and wear it, while you get it cut for the best, most flattering style for your face. Consider getting a haircut with bangs or wisps to obscure the hairline. Once you’ve gotten the style you want, keep it fresh by brushing it every day with a wire wig brush and applying light wig spray.

Hair loss might be a common temporary side effect of cancer treatment, but, with the help of LGFB, you can make positive self-esteem a permanent condition. To find a local LGFB program call 1-800-395-LOOK or visit www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org. For information on local cancer support programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.