January 3, 2013

New hair for the New Year


Early last January I wrote a post detailing four fun goals that I hoped to accomplish throughout the year, one of which was to do something about my hair. Though I did get a pretty good cut shortly thereafter, that was, at best, a slight improvement over what was already a fairly dismal situation.

You see, as I mentioned in that post and have occasionally touched on elsewhere in on this blog, my hair had problems. Big problems. The main issue, without a doubt, was the fact that it was thinning. This wasn't a recent problem. I first distinctly noticed my hair beginning to thin when I was fourteen and a half, and though I consulted many doctors about it, had a batter of tests done, changed my diet at times to see if that did anything (it didn't), tried taking numerous vitamins and supplements, used (from my late teens onward) only ultra pure, gentle, natural hair products; stopped colouring it (for a while, which didn't help, so I went back to colouring, as darker hues actually helped a bit in terms of hiding the overall thinning), and myriad other things, nothing helped.

Nor could the doctors definitely tell me why my hair was thinning at such a young age (even though I've been tested many times and never - to date - diagnosed with a thyroid condition, I am personally convinced that my thyroid is playing a roll here, as I lost the second half of my eyebrows in my teen years, too, and that is something that is seen almost exclusively in individuals with thyroid issues, and also because numerous relatives, including my mom, on both sides of my family, have serious thyroid problems).

Now, I didn't start out life with ultra thick hair to begin with, but as far as bone-straight locks go, it was a totally acceptable amount of hair until it started thinning. At first, in my teen years, things weren't so bad and I kept a small flame of hope burning that perhaps this problem would stop once I hit adulthood, but as my twenties rolled on, the issue persisted (again, I sought medical help and was never given a definite answer as to what was causing the thinning).

By about age 25 (perhaps even earlier) I made total peace with the fact that I could tell, unless the problem stopped completely, I was destined to one day wear a wig. This point didn't really phase me at all. Many people the world over wear wigs either by necessity or choice, and in some ways the prospect exited me. Still, I did want to hold onto my natural hair for as long as it looked even moderately acceptable.

Now, everyone will likely define "moderately acceptable" a little bit differently, but for me, as 2012 wore on, the moderately acceptable line was crossed. Though I tried very, very hard to hid the thinning (which was worst in the front, crown and sides, but present across my whole scalp) with different hairstyles, a fairly dark hair colour, headbands, hair accessories, and hats (don't get me wrong, I'd wear hats even if I was blessed with the most incredible head of hair ever), the bald (or nearly bald) patches were getting worse.

I began to say that it was just smoke, mirrors and hairspray that were keeping me from revealing to the world how bad the issue was. Though I never (and would never) doctored (Photoshopped, etc) my hair to make it look better in snaps, I did often have to leave photos on the editing room floor, so to speak, because they showed (in my opinion) how bad the issue was. I wasn't ashamed, but I didn't feel that such shots added to the posts I might have included them in.

Throughout much of the last summer and fall, I wore hats and large hair accessories (flower clips, wide headbands, head scarves, etc) to hide the issue, but as fall wore on and it was getting trickier and trickier to make even a sparse faux bang roll or teeny Victory Rolls (let alone hide the especially noticeable thinning spots), I knew that the time had come to say good-bye to my natural hair.

And so I set about to buy a wig. Now, I should mention that I had zero firsthand experience with wigs prior to this year (I'd never even worn a cheap-o Halloween type of wig), though I had begun researching the general topic a couple of years back. I knew that a good quality real hair wig wasn't in my budget at the moment, and so set about to find a synthetic hair wig that I liked and thought would work well for me.

This was not the easiest of tasks, especially since there are no local wig shops here in our town (and I don't know anyone in person who wear a wig), so I had to turn to the web to source wigs from. The first wig I bought was a high end, fairly expensive synthetic one. Though the colour (a blend of warm golden blonds) was gorgeous, I was shocked by how little hair (not length, thickness) it had and how it was almost impossible for me to style without it showing the wig cap (as the wig, in its natural state itself was modern looking that didn't work well for my vintage style unfortunately), so sadly that wig is most likely a write-off (I may try cutting it or, more likely, I'll sell try to sell it).

I supposed - perhaps both naively and optimistically - that most wigs would be akin to Barbie doll hair in the sense that you'd be able to style them in a wide range of ways without the scalp (wig cap) showing through. I've sense learned, the hard way, that such is not the case and that one usually has to buy a custom made "thick" wig if want to get anything even close to this effect (the ability to style it in a wide range of ways without the cap showing through, I mean). Having just such a wig is now my long term goal (ideally a human hair one, but a thick custom heat resistant synthetic wig would probably do the tricky quite well, too), but as that's unlikely to happen anytime soon, I really needed something in the meantime.

In no small part this is because I had, when I got my first wig (the lovely coloured one that didn't pan out) made the choice to shave my head. One morning Tony (who's no stranger to shaving his own head due to hair loss) and I shaved my head completely. It wasn't nervous at all, in fact, I'd say that a zen-like calm filled my soul as the eclectic razor whizzed across my scalp.

I was sick and tired of the handfuls of hair I lost each time I showered, of the years and years of picking dozens (or more) hairs off my clothes every day, and of the continuous task of trying to hide how bad the problem was (wanna know a secret? If, in an outfit photo you saw the front of my hair, you were likely seeing all of it, by this I mean, if I draped hair over my shoulders, there was little to nothing in the back, and vice versa). It was time, it felt right, and even things have been a bit tricky on the wig front, I haven't regretted this move for a split second.

Though I will always hold out the hope that perhaps one day something could be done to help stop and, better yet, perhaps even revert some of my hair loss, as such solutions have been anything but forthcoming, for now I'm going to continue to keep shaving my head and wearing a wig.

Ok, so the first wig didn't pan out. This only really bugged me because of what I paid for it, but chalk that up to a learning experience. Then I set about looking for a wig that looked (or would be easy to style) vintage (aka, like a 1940s or 50s hairstyle).

Well let me tell you, my sweet dears, there are not many of them out there, especially if you're trying to avoid the obvious costume styles (such as Marilyn Monroe and Lucile Ball costume wigs). I scoured the web, looked at dozens of wig websites around the world, and in terms of pre-styled synthetic wigs that were within my budget, the best option I found was one called Pin Up by the brand Jon Renau.


Jon Renau Pin Up vintage hair wig

{My new wig, Pin up by Jon Renau, pictured here in, I believe, a colour called Chocolate Soufflé. I'll be sporting Cherry Cobbler myself. Image source.}



This brand makes a wide range of realistic and more costume oriented wigs, however unlike their realistic (aka, modern style) wigs, Pin Up was not offered in many non-costumey colours. Of the more realistic hair hues there was platinum blond, very dark brown, and a warm auburn called Cherry Cobbler, the latter of which I opted for.

Cherry Cobbler (isn't that name adorable?) must be one of the best sellers in this wig, because it was sold out on several sites, but I was able to find it from a website called Max Wigs. The wig took its sweet time to arrive (though the site charged me more than enough to send the wig via USPS Priority Mail, it was sent through First Class, and took a little over three weeks to arrive to my house here in B.C.), and I was growing a touch anxious because there I was with a shaved wig, a wig that didn't really work for (issues above aside, it turned out to be something of an unflattering wig for my face shape - though could do in a pinch), and no idea exactly when "Pin Up" was arriving (First Class mail to Canada doesn't include a true tracking number, just a customs number).

Alas though, after many restless days, my wig arrived and I loved it. Is it perfect? No, that would likely be far to much to ask from a synthetic wig in that price range, but it's a heck of a lot better than my other wig which was more than five times the price. The bangs weren't cut that straight and I think they fall a little to low on my forehead, so after wearing it for a while I cut them (the first three outfit posts you see of me in this wig have the ever-so-slightly longer bangs, after that, they're a touch shorter and more to my liking). The curl isn't perfectly even (or tight) on both sides and I can already see it dropping a tad, the more I wear it, but over all I quite like this wig. (Perhaps my greatest qualm, so to speak, with it is that I worry it makes my face look rounder in a way that might make me look heavier than I really am - but I'll let you guys decide if such is the case or if it's just my imagination.)

The colour is great, it's comfier (by a long shot!) than the first wig I bought, and it looks relatively vintage-ish (it’s quite similar to Bettie Page’s iconic hairstyle). I can't fashion it in a million ways, but I can pull the sides back, do small rolls, tuck it into a snood, and am continuing to experiment with other styles.

This wig isn't meant to last me forever by any means, and it certainly won't (I'll be impressed if it holds its curl and looks presentable until spring arrives), but it's a good compromise right now I think, as I begin to slowly save up for a thick, very good quality custom wig. In the interim, I'll most likely purchase other inexpensive wigs, especially if they have a vintage hairstyle vibe to them, but Pin Up is my "hair" for the moment.

Though I've certainly learned more about wigs in the past couple of months than I ever have before, I'm by no means a wig expert (perhaps one day), and I hope that you'll enjoy learning alongside me in the months and years to come, as I continue to broaden my knowledge on the topic, try other wigs, and live life without my natural hair.

I realize that this was a bit of a long post, but I really wanted to delve into the subject of my hair loss and recent experience with wigs before unveiling photos of me sporting my Jon Renau Pin Up. I have an outfit post slatted for next Tuesdays (the 8th), and will unveil my new hair there - so be sure to tuned for that!

These past couple of months have been interesting ones on the hair front for sure, but like any big change, there's almost always going to be ups and downs, curve balls, mistakes, and successes. I'm truly happy that I made the decision to start wearing a wig, because it has relieved me of the constant problems and stresses associated with half a lifetime of continual (albeit gradual) hair loss.

If you happen to know of any good sources for vintage (1940s or 50s styled) wigs and/or have have any great wig tips/personal stories/etc that you'd like to share with me, I would be truly grateful for your knowledge and suggestions.

Thank you very much for letting me share this experience with all of you. Here's to starting of the New Year with brand new hair and all the fun and excitement that such a change entails!

121 comments:

  1. Wow. For the first time, I think I know more about a subject than you. do I spent two years deeply researching, trying on and experimenting with wigs. I have 11 wigs -- and only two of them work for me, which says how hard it is to find good ones.

    I'm very impressed at your candor. Most people hide problems like thinning-hair. I respect your openness and believe it's the healthiest attitude to take. There is nothing shameful about any medical condition.

    You chose a beautiful hair-style. As you've seen, there is a very wide range of wigs out there, varying tremendously in quality and price. For some purposes, inexpensive wigs are okay. (I mean real ones [$50-200], not $30 Halloween wigs which are terrible and itchy.)

    For women who wear them a lot, however, it's probably a good investment to buy a better wig. I don't know your financial situation and shouldn't assume anything but, if you can afford a good natural-hair wig, it's worth the money. Not only do they look and feel better, they can be styled more easily than synthetic hair. And they last longer.

    If price is an issue, contact me by e-mail; I have ideas on that.

    Finding an appropriate wig is hard and a lengthy process. Please keep us updated on your progress and good luck with it.

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  2. Hi Jessica,

    I've followed your blog for quite some time now (at least two years), but only now gathered enough courage to comment on one of your posts. :)
    I'd like to thank you for being so wonderfully sincere about your situation, it takes a lot of guts to tell the public about this! I kinda know how it feels, since I've had Hodgkin's disease and lost all my hair because of the chemotherapy. I still remember the huge relief I felt when I finally shaved off the rest of my hair and didn't have to worry about it falling off anymore.. I'd always had a super long hair but the wig I used was really short, so it was in some way quite exciting to try something totally different after years of having the same style. :)

    I wish you all the best and hope you have a great 2013! Thanks for sharing this!

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    1. Thank you very much for your thoughtful, understanding comment, my dear. I'm so sorry to hear that you've had to contend with hair loss, too, and want you to know how much I appreciate you sharing that fact with me. I hope dearly that things are looking up for you on the health front these days, and that 2013 is an awesome year for you as well.

      Thank you again deeply,
      ♥ Jessica

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  3. I am wondering if you could investigate some sources for wigs for cancer patients. (My husband battled cancer last year, and I spent a lot of time in the oncologist's office looking through wig magazines for lady patients)I don't know if those companies are ONLY for people battling cancer, or if anyone could buy them, but they SHOULD be well made! Just a thought.....

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  4. Thank you for sharing your hair story. I think it is very brave.

    I personally have thin hair that grows in differently throughout my head. Certain areas are long and health and other areas are short and absolultely refuse to grow more than 1.5 inches. It's frustrating and stressful because those hairs are almost exclusively at the front of my face and temples.

    I am looking forward to your wig finding endeavours as I maybe on the same path with you in the future.

    HRF

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  5. Thank you for sharing all of this with us! You have a lot of courage, to shave off all of your hair, I think my hands would shake the entire time. I admire your strength! Which leads me to say, that I think it is unfair the expectations our culture puts on women and a full head of hair. It is something which in most cases is uncontrollable and it would be nice if we could feel as comfortable with hair loss as most men.

    The wig you linked looks very real, and I look forward to seeing your new outfit posts! I will also keep an eye out for vintage styled wigs too!

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  6. I have bought several wigs over the years - some for costume, some to just wear. I have found that the Forever Young wigs are inexpensive and look fairly realistic. I have worn them out and nobody has been the wiser. They are modern styles, though. So, they are super vintage looking. I have also found that in order to make the wig look real, it is best to stay away from those that have hard fronts, rather sticking to the ones with bangs (or getting a lace front wig, but they are pretty expensive).

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    1. Hi sweet gal, thank you very much for your comment. It's great to hear from a fellow wig wearer. It's cool that you mention Forever Young's wigs, as a couple of their curlier styles are ones that I debated getting instead of Jon Renau's Pinup. They're quite well priced as you said, so I may very well get one or two (or more!) Forever Young wigs over time. At the moment, I'm most feeling one called Caressa (it's a big 80s "big hair", but I think it could possibly be taken in a fun 40s direction, too).

      I really appreciate your comment, thank you again, honey.
      ♥ Jessica

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  7. Good for you. I wear a wig occasionally for religious reasons (the rest of the time I cover my hair with a scarf or hat) and I can definitely say that although my real hair wig was expensive it was really worth it. It's also lasted years although if you are styling one often it will reduce its life. With a good wig you can also have it redone with extra hair added if it starts looking tired after a few years. I suggest you find a good Sheitel macher in your area and see what they have available. They'll be able to give you advice on what suits you and you'll be able to try things on before buying so you'll be less likely to make mistakes. Good luck.

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    1. Hi S, thank you very much for your caring comment and excellent suggestion. I live in a relatively small town that does not have much in the way of Jewish community (we don't have a local synagogue, for example), however I believe there is Jewish Community Association in a town about an hour away from us, and I'll certainly be contacting them to see if they might be able to point me towards anyone in our part of the province who could help. This is a really wonderful idea, thank you again so much.

      ♥ Jessica

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  8. Jessica, a friend of mine went through a similar experience a few years ago. The women in her family end up with extremely thin hair that completely disappears at the temples. She got by on headbands for awhile until she could come to terms with the wig decision. She did TONS of Internet research and ended up buying a good wig (though there were hiccups there too), then had a professional cut it. She made peace with the wig, which looked great, then she made peace with her hair and now rarely wears the wig anymore. She has short spiky sparse hair but it's very her! My heart goes out to you because I understand how difficult it is to work through the issues. I've seen the photos on Pinterest, and I think the new hair is just lovely!

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  9. Congrats to you for making a decision that I'm sure wasn't an easy one. I can't wait to see how your new wig suits you, I think that style would be very flattering on you! I look forward to learning more with you.

    If you don't follow her already, I'd recommend checking out the blog Lucky Lucille. She wears wigs and is open on her blog about it. I think perhaps she may be in a similar position as you about why she's made that step, so you might connect with her. :)

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    1. Thank you very much, Tasha, both for your support and also for suggesting Lucille's blog. I've not encountered it before and really, really love knowing that there's another blogger in our circle who also wears wigs and openly discusses the fact that she does. I'm off to pay her a visit right now. Thank you again dearly.

      ♥ Jessica

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  10. I'm so surprised to learn you wear a wig! You look lovely, and I look forward to seeing you with the new one. :)

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    1. Hi sweet Sanne, I just started wearing one a few weeks ago and haven't posted any photos of myself in it here yet (in all the photos you've seen here of me before, that was my natural hair). I'll be debuting my wig early next week and am happy to know you're eager to see it.

      ♥ Jessica

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  11. I don't know too much about wigs, but I do know that wigs and hair pieces of all types are very popular in the costuming community so you might try looking for places that cater to costumers. I'm planning on getting some hair pieces this year because my hair is thin and I'll never have the patience to grow it out long enough to do lovely Edwardian styles.

    Best of luck with your hair adventures!

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    1. Very good idea regarding where to turn to for advice and help. While I was waiting for "Pin Up" to arrive, I kept saying to Tony that I wish I land in Hollywood and turn to the best wig experts in the industry there for help. That's not going to happen anytime soon, but I suspect that some in the costuming community are just as knowledgeable, so I'll definitely be looking into picking their brains. Thank you so much for the suggestion!

      ♥ Jessica

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    2. I should add, especially because some people in the costuming community have first hand experience with working with period style wigs for movies, TV and theater.

      ♥ Jessica

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  12. I'm impressed by how philosophical you are about your hair loss problem. Rather than weeping and wailing you've taken positive steps to do something about it. Well done! I really like your new wig and look forward to seeing all your lovely vintage outfits and hairstyles in 2013.

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  13. Wow Jessica. It's great that your have the strength and courage to let us know what has happened to you. My mom has always had thin hair and has tried a lot of things to make her hair thicker. She would try herbal tinctures, shampoos and some weird Arabic solution that actually made more hair grow in.
    Good quality wigs can run you in the hundreds especially the ones made with human hair. I can wait to see your new wig. I'm sure it'll look great. I know that there are bands that you can use with wigs to keep them snug if yours is slipping.
    I'm so happy you have the strength to be true to yourself and make the best out of any situation.
    Mariela

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    1. Thank you very, very much Mariela, you're so wonderfully kind. I'm very sorry to hear that your mom has struggled with thin hair as well. My mom also does, though her hair loss didn't begin until her first pregnancy (with me). It's not as bad as mine though, but I suspect that one day she may become a fellow wig wearer, too.

      Pin Up fits really well, but I'll likely buy one of the bands you suggested, as it never hurts to have one on hand for future wigs or if I know I'm going to be going someplace where slippage might be a real issue.

      Thank you again deeply, my friend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  14. Oh Jessica, I am so proud of you! It was a big step you took but you took it gracefully and full of courage. Sometimes you have to take a close look at what you have and decide whether you will complain about it or make the most of it. And you chose the latter.

    That wig is stunning and I checked out the Cherry Cobbler and its soooo pretty-its going to look great with your complexion! I look fwd to seeing your photos!

    You have nothing to be embarrassed about in any way. Remember you are talking to the lady who wears some sexy plastic on her legs everyday haha!

    Is it annoying that so many health and physical stuff is happened at such a young age? Heck yeah! I sometimes shake my head at all the dr's appts I have and I usually am the youngest person in the office. I just tell myself that I am getting some good practice in for when I am an old lady heheh Besides, it has made me stronger and braver like it has done for you.

    You make me so proud and I feel continued inspiration from you and by how you live your life so fully, beautifully, and gracefully.

    Much hugs dear friend! xox Bunny

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    1. Awwww, Bunny, you always know just what to say, thank you so much. I adore, and try to share as often as I can, your positive outlook on these kinds of things and admire you more than you'll ever know.

      Sometimes I need to use a wheelchair due to my health and though I don't post snaps of me in my chair here, I rarely feel self-conscious about it in public, nor am I finding I feel self-conscious about my wig, which is soooo wonderful (especially since I tend to be a very self-conscious in general).

      Thank you again with all my heart,
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. That's so brave of you to go ahead and say good-bye to your locks. I lost a few patches of hair when I was in middle school due to stress; luckily it grew right back and is even thicker now, but I still shudder when I remember that awful year of trying to hide it. Wigs will be so fun, and easy too. And I'll be interested to hear your opinions on vintage-style wigs, as I've been obsessed with wigs for a far more superficial reason lately-- just to allow me to switch up my boring brown bob ;)

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    1. Thank you very much for your thoughtful comment, Dakota. I'm sorry to hear that you had to contend with thinning hair for a while in your life. I suspect that stress has played a roll in my hair loss, too, as has my overall state of poor health (due to my chronic illnesses). It's awesome though that your hair was able to grow back. I hope that it always stays thick and healthy for you.

      How cool that you're interested in wigs! I've seen a couple of cute bobbed styles in my vintage wigs hunts lately, such as this one http://www.maxwigs.com/lulu-1920s-flapper-short-bob-wig-by-lacey-costume-wigs-p1439.html and this one http://www.maxwigs.com/fingerwave-fluff-flapper-1920s-starlet-mae-west-wig-by-lacey-costume-wigs-p1521.html, not sure if they're even close to what you had in mind, but just in case they are, I wanted to share them.

      Thank you again so much, honey,
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. I don't have any advice for you regarding wigs (although I did have a friend who often wore wigs as she lost a lot of hair due to a medical issue, and she had quite a few fun options), but I did want to say that I think you are a truly beautiful person, both inside and out. I look forward to seeing your next outfit post, your new 'do looks fabulous and I'll bet you look like a complete bombshell wearing it!

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  17. Bravo, Jessica, for posting this! This really hits close to home for me too because I have been dealing with hair loss issues for years now, though mine is caused by metabolic disorder (PCOS, insulin resistance) that I could have been controlling better over the years via diet and exercise, but haven't. I have vowed that 2013 is the year that I start making serious changes, including taking care of myself better!

    A couple of years ago I started using Rogaine (minoxodil) upon the advice of my dermatologist, to try and regrow some of what I had lost. I did, a little, but have lost it once again despite continuing to use it. I'm convinced that the root (ha ha) of my hair loss stems from inbalances in nutrient absorption, due to years of abuse on my GI tract from bad diets.

    Sorry this is so long; I'm glad that you have made peace with your hair loss and are exploring the world of wigs! I hope that I can curb my loss so that I don't have to go there myself, but if I do, I know where to go for advice. :) Can't wait to see the photos!

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    1. Hi Betsy, thank you very much for your caring comment and for sharing some of your own personal history with hair loss with me. I'm so sorry to learn that this is a boat you're all too familiar with being in as well. I don't have PCOS, but I do have a myriad of other chronic health problems, including some serious ones that affect my GI system, and also believe that problems with nutrient absorption could be playing at least a supporting role in my hair loss for sure. I don't think that medical science has an overly good grasp on the many diverse causes of non-alopecia hair loss yet and that as time goes, more and more reasons (including nutrient absorption) will finally be recognized.

      If I can ever be of help to you with your own hair loss and/or wig buying/wearing experience, please don't hesitate to let me know.

      ♥ Jessica

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  18. What an interesting post. I admire you for embracing the new opportunities of wig-wearing and making something positive out of your hair issues. I'm sure I wouldn't be able to deal with a vanity-related issue like that with such grace!

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  19. Cherry Cobbler sounds like a wonderful name! I think it will fit your skin coloring wonderfully. I immediately thought of a hypothyroidism as soon as you mentioned about the hair loss. My Mom has that too, so I know the symptoms. I am so sorry you have to deal with so much. I myself have a condition called RSD in my foot, where my nerves act like they are in constant pain 24/7, and I wear a big "storm trooper" boot a lot. I also have a lot of horrible pain in my shoulder, and it dislocates a lot. Now my new surgeon thinks I have a pinched nerve in my neck and that may or may not be mixed with more shoulder issues after my old surgeon operated a year ago. I also has three surgeries on my knee and now the other one is going kaput. So I kind of know what you feel, and I do pray that you have as many healthy and happy days as possible! :-)

    -Holly

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    1. Hi Holly, thank you very much for your understanding, thoughtful comment. I'm deeply sorry to hear about the medical issues that you've been contending with. I've been chronically (and in chronic pain) for over a decade now, and know all too well what an incredible impact long term/chronic health issues have on a person's daily life. Actually, in the face of such things, my hair loss is almost a non-issue for me, especially since there's always wigs a plenty out there. I just wish more medical issues could so easily be dealt with.

      I hope dearly that you're able to experience positive things on the health front throughout 2013, and want you to know that I'm sending tons of healing wishes and understanding your way.

      ♥ Jessica

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  20. This wig looks very natural. I remember having a short wig about 30 years ago which was so stiff and fake looking and really felt like Barbie hair. I have a much better longer wavy wig now and while still synthetic it looks for all the world to be like my own hair. When you get your confidence with your new wig you'll have to literally let your hair down and post a photo of yourself with a brand new hairdo.

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    1. I had no idea you wore a wig, too. My I ask, do you wear one all the time? I'd love to hear some general wig points and "things I wish people had told me when I started wearing wigs" type of tips if you have any to share.

      Thank you so much, my sweet friend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  21. This must be a huge step for you!
    And must be, in some way, quite relieving. I'm looking forward to the outfit posts!

    I don't have any advice, but I hope you find some nice and affordable wigs.

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  22. As it happens my sister in law is a hairdresser who re-trained to work with wigs after a close friend lost her hair due to chemotherapy and was treated appallingly by the NHS recommended supplier here. I would strongly recommend you visiting someone like her because they will listen to all your wants/needs and then try to supply you with something that meets them but also suits you, your colouring and face shape. For a start they will weave a cap to fit your head specifically so you shouldn't see it as much. I have added a link to her website I don't know if the 'My New Hair' network is available in Canada but I'm sure there must be something similar. http://www.longforhair.co.uk/

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    1. Thank you very much for your helpful suggestion - I wish I lived near your sister-in-law in the UK and could avail of her expertise. When it comes time to buy my first real hair or super high end synthetic, I'll definitely be turning to a professional for help.

      Thank you again deeply for your advice,
      ♥ Jessica

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  23. dear jessica, thank you so much for sharing your experiences with your loss of hair and your experiences with your future hair - the wigs. when i saw your outfit photos from the past i never ever thought there would be a hair issue!

    i don't have issues with my hair - i do have issues with the colour of my skin. no doctor is able to tell me what it is and there seem to be no help. i call it'the michael jackson desease', because as i know, he did got more and more white spots, big spots, until he decided to bleach his skin. in my case it started almost 20 years ago with a white spot in my face - suddenly a liver spot turned colourles:lets call it 'white'. then more than 10 years ago suddenly my fingertips lost their natural complexion. especially in summertime it gets worse because my skin gets tanned quite fast and dark but those white spots don't get tanned anymore. meanwhile my whole fingers are almost white and my hands show tiny spots as well, my toes are white and i found some little spots on my legs the past year... i try to avoid to be outside in bright sunlight ...
    my mum has this issue too - but she told me it stopped growing in her late 20s, sadly i'm already 35 and this MJ-disease doesn't seems to stop. ... i try to ignore it as good as i can. there are times it works out quite good, some times(especially in summertime)not. but i do my very best. ;)

    your amazing post showed me, that i'm not alone with a problem like this - even if it's a total different kind of 'beauty-issue' but both issues are affecting our whole appearance.

    so i can't wait to see your first outfit post showing your new hair. cherry cobbler is a great colour!
    your awesome!
    hug,
    wardrobe experience

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    1. Thank you so, so much for your understanding, intimate comment. I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate you sharing the very personal situation you've been contending with regarding your skin with me.

      My best friend through some of the elementary (primary) school years, Karen, has vitiligo on parts of her body (most noticeably her hands) and I always thought the two skin tones looked so beautiful together on her, just as I'm sure they do on you. It's interesting, isn't it, all the ways that one's body can stop working or appearing properly, isn't it?

      I'm very sorry that you've had to contend with this skin condition and want you to know how much it means to me that you shared your story about it with me. You are so, so beautiful and your unique skin just makes you all the more so, my dear friend.

      ♥ Jessica

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  24. Thank you for sharing such a personal post with us. I admire the way you are coping with what must be a really tough situation. When people have so much to offer the world in terms of intelligence, kindness, creativeness and all such wonderful things, it seems that something as apparently superficial as hair shouldn't matter, but the unfortunately reality is that it does. Even if those nearest and dearest to you couldn't give a toss about your hair, it remains that strangers are so prone to make judgments on people based on appearances.

    It must sometimes be hard to pull together the confidence to face the world, having such an unusual and unfortunate condition for someone so young, especially a girl. I am not surprised, however, to find you facing the facts, confronting things face-on and making the most of everything, and managing to keep a bounce in your step.

    I hope that your pennies come together quickly for a beautiful, long-lasting wig. And that you get some enjoyment out of experimenting with cheaper ones until then. And I look forward to seeing your new wig's debut in an outfit post, beautiful, lovely lady!

    xx

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    1. Excellently, eloquently said point, Marie. Hair is such an integral part of how most of us (I've venture to say, especially women, though of course I know that many men are deeply bothered by hair loss, too) define and see ourselves, and it is a bit of an odd experience to wake up one day with hair (albeit thinning hair) and then to have none the next day. At first I'd catch my reflection in the mirror (sans hat or wig on) and almost to a double take (especially because I think I look more like my brother now, especially during the times he's worn his hair cut close to the scalp) before I realized there wasn't a stranger lurking in the house, it was just me!

      It's only been a couple months now (to the day, come to think of it), since I shaved my head, but I'm happy to say that the double takes are behind me and that it feels rather natural, in a way, now to be "hairless". Surely this has to be a good sign when it comes to my compatibility with life as a wig wearer. :)

      Thank you very, very much for your fantastic comment, I sincerely appreciate it,
      ♥ Jessica

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    2. I'm glad to hear you've become used to it so quickly - it surely is a good sign.

      Your comment about doing double takes because you look like your brother amused me - I would be exactly the same if I shaved my head as we look very alike! That would freak me out more than anything!

      x

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  25. This is just like the ladies of ancient Egypt! A very important mentor of mine as a university student was an Egyptologist, and his discourses made me read a lot about ancient Egyptian philosophy, aesthetics, fashion, make up etc. And every lady with style and self respect would do exactly what you did. I always found this idea beautiful...!

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    1. What an awesome comment, thank you very much, Jannie. In the midst of all this, I really don't think I'd even thought to think about the role shaved heads and wigs played for many women in early modern societies. I feel much more like Cleopatra now, thank you! :)

      ♥ Jessica

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  26. You were very good at hiding your hair loss. I would have never guessed it was thinning let alone to the extent it was. Im happy for you that you made peace with your hair and very excited to see your new hairstyle!

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    1. Thank you so much, that's very kind of you to say. Even I was surprised by how little hair (I should have taken a picture, but was quite caught up in the moment and didn't think of it them) hair I actually had once it was all cut and laying there on the floor.

      I believe that the dark colour I dyed it (my natural colour is a super washed out, very unattractive mousy light brown) and years or styling it to try and hide the thinning helped in pictures, but in person people tended to notice and comment on much more often (including once an ER doctor the first moment she saw me, even though I was almost passing out from the pain I was in at the time and in no way there to talk about my hair!).

      I'm so excited to share "Pin Up" with you next week - thank you so much for your support for the unveiling.

      ♥ Jessica

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  27. Thanks for sharing so much personal information, I am really excited to see you with your new wig!

    Delurking but a longtime reader. :)

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  28. This was a very honest and thoughtful post. This is what I like about you is that you open your world to others...even the most vulnerable parts. I, by no means am comparing myself to your journey. I have thin hair too. It's not to the extent of baldness but when you look at the vintage ideal with those big pin curls I can never expect this either:) I've also looked at wigs and wonder what it is like to wear then so I look forward to hearing more. When I had my photo shoot, I was so happy that the make up artist had a hair piece made of real hair. I loved it. I hope you are one day able to get your dream wig. The great thing I believe is that there isn't the stigma there once was. Great post!

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    1. Thank you so much, dear Joanna. I truly hope that the stigma around wearing wigs is lessening, as well as that as time goes on, more and more women will feel comfortable talking about their hair loss. I'm learning that it's something that affects a fairy decent percentage of the female population at some point during there lives, be it temporary or long term, and think that it's something we (as a society) should talk about more.

      How awesome that you got to use a hair piece for one of your shoots, that must have been so fun! I've read that many of the biggest names in Hollywood during the golden age of cinema used hair pieces (even when they had good, thick natural hair) to help achieve all those stunning curls, rolls and waves, as bet you were channeling them big time during your shoot.

      Thank you deeply again,
      ♥ Jessica

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  29. Thanks for sharing your story with the world. Chronic Illness can be insidious in the way that it affects us. Our hair is such an essential element of who we are and how we present ourselves to the world. I have the same problem - major hair loss on top and sides - and have been very tired of strangers who feel it is OK to ask me in the street or cafes about my hair loss and family members who seem preoccupied with it. I keep my hair short and like you have found dying it helps it look thicker. I also went grey young due to my health and found leaving it natural makes it look invisible. Today it is 41 degrees Celsius here and I couldn't wear a wig today or for most of summer but I have thought about it. I wear hats - in winter because the cold hurts and I sunburn my scalp in summer. I have lived with chronic illness for a long time leaving me with major loss and deficits, yet it is this one thing that can make me cry.

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    1. Dear Merrian, thank you very much for sharing some of your intimate personal story with hair loss with me. I'm sorry to know that this, as well as chronic illness, is something that you've battled as well.

      It's interesting that you mention going grey at a young age, because what I hadn't realized (at the time) after years of continually colouring my hair is that I'd started to grey, too. It was only when my real hair began poking back through (I've since shaved it a second time and plan on keeping it shaved for the foreseeable future) that I realized I'd greyed quite a bit (I'd say at least 40% grey over all). I'm 100% convinced my poor health is to blame there, as the women in my family don't grey early.

      Thank you again for your comment. If you ever need anyone to talk to about health, hair loss, or anything, I'm here for you.

      ♥ Jessica

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  30. Ah, pretty lady, I’m sure you look exquisite, as your inner beauty shines in every post. Your outer features will still complement what we already know about you - that you are lovely. Here's wishing you find a wig soon that is perfect for you in every way.

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  31. Hi Jessica,

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I have long admired you for your incredible outfit posts and for other aspects of your blog and I am in awe of the your openess and grace in dealing with what must be a very difficult experience. I work in film and tv in Vancouver (and live in the Fraser Valley) and I will make a point of asking our hair department if they know of any resources for retro styled wigs. I'll let you know as soon as I hear anything.

    All the best for 2013!

    Elle Buckle

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    1. Oh Elle, I could truly hug you, thank you so, so much. Many times (especially when the first wig I bought didn't pan out) I said to my husband that I wished I could suddenly land in the middle of Hollywood and pick the brains of the leading wig experts there. Your connections to those in the industry here in B.C. is just as awesome, and I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate your help in this regard.

      Thank you from the bottom of my heart,
      ♥ Jessica

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  32. Hi Jessica, I'm de-lurking to comment on this post. I've read your blog for a while, and it must be said, you personify handling difficult situations with grace. It's clear that you're not looking for sympathy here, nor that you feel sorry for yourself. You've taken an issue that carries a lot of (unnecessary) social and cultural baggage, and you've addressed it with candor and strength. It's pretty damn impressive. And hair or no hair, you're gorgeous. Keep on keepin' on, lady! :)

    -Ricki

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    1. Hi Ricki, thank you very much. I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment and support, as well as that you de-lurked to share it with me. That means a lot.

      ♥ Jessica

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  33. I'm sure you will find one that you like eventually!

    I have some experiecne in styling wigs as I wear them for 18th century occasion. It is possible to curl syntetic wigs, for example. Wet it, sopping wet being the operative word, and curl it in the style you want. I usually make standing pincurls. Then you need to bake it. Yes, really. The heat in the over must be very cool so as to not melt I ususally go for 40-50 degress Celsius. Keep it in there overnight or until the wig is bone dry. Then style as desired. I do recommend trying out the tecnique on a cheap wig first.

    And idea if to buy a long wig and then find a hairdresser that can cut it in a suitable style. :)

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    1. What an awesome comment, thank you very much for sharing your knowledge regarding how to curl sympathetic wigs with me. The first wig that I bought was a higher end heat resistant (I think it's heat resistant up to 330F or thereabouts) one, and that element was a huge part of what drew me to it in the first place. It so, so fantastic to find out that there's a technique for curling/restyling non-heat resistant wigs, too. If "Pin Up" starts to loss it's shape too much, I may just have to set the oven and give this a try.

      Again, thank you very much!!!
      ♥ Jessica

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  34. OOO I am so excited to see your post on Tuesday!! :D I love wigs, they can be so much fun!!
    Thinning hair runs in my family too for females, but I seem to be lucky with mine right now. I really appreciate your candidness with this post; I can see a lot of people feeling more comfortable in their own skin because of you. :)

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    1. Hi sweet Ash, thank you very much for your lovely comment and excitement about the wig unveiling! I'll be working on the post this week and can't wait to share snaps of me in my new hair here, too.

      ♥ Jessica

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  35. Bravo dear Jessica! Fear not on bothersome hair....it is the bane of every woman's existance. I feel a slight tinge of jealousy that you will be able to change your look any time you want.... I hope that lame attempt at levity makes you care a little bit less on your natural hair state. I am chomping at the bit to see PHOTOS!!!

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  36. OOOhh, I'm way over due for a hair cut and was supposed to do it before work starts again on Monday but that didn't happen... Can't wait to see it!

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  37. Jessica! That is so brave of you to write this post! I hope you'll find a solution soon! You always look so immaculate and whatever your hair situation is you will always look great! Fascinators are a great way to cheat obviously, and it goes well with your style! I really really hope you'll find a great solution! Thank you for sharing! It's always great to learn that a blogger I admire is a real person with flaws. But you will always be the most beautiful woman! :)

    Nora
    NoraFinds

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    1. That is so touchingly beautiful, thank you dearly Nora. Believe me, I am a million miles away from flawless, but I think that our flaws, so long as they don't hurt us or others, just help to make us the unique, wonderful creatures that we each are.

      Thank you again deeply,
      ♥ Jessica

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  38. Jessica I´m sure you look amazing with your new hair! Bettie bangs are such a great style and they are even better when you don´t have to reshape them regularly ;). Can´t wait to see how you styled it, I´m especially looking forward to your snood look.
    (Looking at the colour range I´m pretty sure Katie Perry once wore the blue version of the exact same wig.)

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  39. Hi Jessica, I have to comment after reading this post! I have been following your blog for a while, and would like to say a big thank you for all the pleasure your writing has brought me this past year. You handle topics gently and sensitively. I too have some chronic health issues, Fibromyalgia/ME amongst others. Imagine my surprise when I read this post to find issues so similar to my own! I too lose hair every time I shower and every few days our cream bedroom carpet has a healthy coating! I have also been tested for thyroid deficiency numerous times and drawn a blank (my mother has a thyroid deficiency also). I think the bar could be set too low for our personal level, as it's possible that's what normal for one person isn't for another. Anyway, I find it inspiring that you make the effort to share all the lovely thngs that you do in spite of less than perfect health. I too try to keep doing the things I love, like walking my dogs, I believe it is important to not let your health define you and still live a fulfilling life, and Jessica you do that. Lots of love from England! X

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    1. Dear Phil, thank you very much for your thoughtful comment and for sharing some of your own personal story regarding both hair loss and chronic illness with me (I've had FMS and MPS for over a decade, so that's another thing we share in common). I agree 100% with you about the importance of trying not to let you health define who you are all the time. That's actually the reason I named this blog as I did. At the time (when I started CV in April 2009) I'd already been chronically ill for several years and was going through hell with a couple of conditions in particular at the time. I needed something in my life that wasn't stressful and that I could hopefully keep up a fair amount of the time. I'd always adored (and long worn) vintage, so a blog about that made sense. Instead of just being chronically ill, I decided I'd define myself as being "chronically vintage" and thus this blog was born.

      If you ever need anyone to talk to, know that you have an understanding ear in me.

      ♥ Jessica

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    2. T!hank you Jessica. It helps tremendously to know one is not alone! X

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  40. Hi Darling! Good for you for making a decision that was obviously not an easy one. A friend of mine lost her hair in clumps,and as with you the doctors couldn't ever give her a diagnosis. She wore scarves and hats and in the end decided on a wig. She said that shaving her head was strangley liberating and now has a selection of wigs after a certain amount of trial an error.
    You're gorgeous and you're gonna look fab in your wig.
    xxxxx

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    1. Hi dear Ivy, that you very much for your sweet, supportive comment. Though the circumstances are different for sure, I can completely relate to the sense of liberation that your friend felt when she shaved her head, I too finally felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders (head?) after so many years of being unhappy about my ever thinner hair. Sometimes you just have to take the plunge and come out stronger and better off when you emerge! :)

      ♥ Jessica

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  41. I fully understand how you feel because I lost about all my hair when I was 18 years old, it was after a trip in Egypt where I was really ill... All doctors said to me that they didn't know if they would grow again... Fortunatly after a 1 year treatement, my hair came back....
    Thanks to share your situation with us, it must not be easy... but you can see the good side, no more time waste to style your hair and you can change style and color everyday!
    I'm looking to see you new style with wigs, I'm sure you will be gorgeous!!!!




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    1. Oh my goodness, Laurence, I would never have thought you'd gone through a period in your life when you lost your hair. I'm so sorry you had to experience that, and sincerely appreciate that you shared it with me. I've admired your gorgeous blond locks from the first moment I discovered your blog and think that your hair grew back beautifully.

      Thank you again for sharing this intimate experience with me, I wholeheartedly appreciate it.

      ♥ Jessica

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  42. Jessica, this was such a candid post - thanks so much for sharing with us. I had no idea that your hair was thinning, and really admire your courage in the face of adversity. It is interesting how society views hair loss on women so differently from men, even though, it can be just as distressing for men (but is viewed as more of the 'norm' when it happens to them).

    Although this is completely different, my own hair is so short and broken in so many places (from bleaching) at the moment, so I can relate to the frustration of wanting your hair to look a certain way and not being able to do anything about it - especially when you are into vintage styling, and it seems like such an integral part of completing your 'look'. That said, I think the wig you have chosen is really lovely, and it must have been so liberating to shave your head and pick out a completely new style to rock! I think it will suit you beautifully, and I literally cannot wait until you unveil your new 'do next week!!!

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  43. Hi Jessica
    It was so brave of you to take the step to shave off the remainder of your hair & I'm so glad that it felt like it freed you of the unending struggles you have experienced with your hair.
    I tend to lose hair when my lupus is flaring but I'm lucky that I've got extra thick hair & it's not noticeable to others. But I notice it & it drives me nuts.
    But your candidness & positivity has helped me to see myself in a much better light, yes my illness might flare & cause more loss in the future but I cant let that define me.
    I think the wig you have chosen is lovely & am looking forward to your next outfit post.
    I hope your health continues to be stable this year. It's hateful being so ill for such a long time. I can't remember a time when I haven't been in pain. I have had constant pain with differing severity since I was 13 (I have hypermobility syndrome & developed fibromyalgia when I was about 24) & I'm going to be 36 in a couple of months.
    Lisa

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    1. Hi Lisa, thank you very much for your caring, candid comment. I sincerely appreciate you sharing about your own experience regarding hair loss and chronic illness with you. Like yourself, I find it hard to remember a time when I wasn't in mind-blowing pain 24/7. My health hasn't been stable since I day I became chronically ill over a decade ago, but (knock wood!) it's not in the worst spot its ever been in right now, so I truly cannot complain.

      If you ever need anyone to talk to about hair loss, health issues, or anything else, please know that I'm here for you.

      ♥ Jessica

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    2. Thank you so much, that's so kind of you. I really do appreciate that.
      The same goes for me, always here for you too xxx

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  44. I have no personal experiences with wearing a wig, but the whole 2012 I was struggling with hair loss, so I can recommand you some solutions. They worked for me, so maybe they will help you too.

    What helped me the most was the conditioner called "Jantar" - unfortunately as far as I know it's only available in Poland, but maybe you will find it on eBay or somewhere else on the internet. This conditioner is really great, it stopped my hair loss and after using it I have a lot of new little hair.

    The second thing I can recommend you is drinking horsetail (Equisetum) and nettle infusions. You need to put 1 tbs of horsetail into 300-400 ml of water, boil it, then add 1 tbs of nettles, leave for 15 minutes and drink. You should drink it everyday during 3 weeks and then make 1 week long break, then repeat. I didn't believe that herbs may really help - but it does! So if you can buy those herbs in your local herbal shop or pharmacy - I strongly recommend you to try this method!
    And if you want, I can do some research about availability of "Jantar" conditioner - maybe I'll find a shop that ships worldwide (unfortunately, a lot of polish internet shops ships to Poland or EU only).

    xoxo,
    Monika

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    1. Dear Monika, thank you very much for sharing about your own hair loss story and some of the things you tried that helped you. I'm so sorry to hear that you've been battling hair loss as well. It's anything but fun, that's for sure. I have tried the herbs you mentioned (a few years back while researching natural hair loss products that I hadn't tried yet, I came across this thread http://www.hairsite.com/hair-loss/forum_entry-id-4002.html on a forum and ended up trying many of the natural products there, often for weeks or months at a time, none of which helped me unfortunately), but not the conditioner, and will certainly see if it's something that's sold anywhere in Canada or the US.

      I sincerely appreciate your insight and ideas, thank you again very much.

      ♥ Jessica

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  45. Thank you for sharing Jessica, I myself had had bouts of hair loss after having each of my girls. The last time I really lost quite a bit where my husband was even worried, lucky for me it did grow back. I know you would look gorgeous as always and perfectly put together, just think you can by an array of colors and styles and be a different person every week or so!

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    1. Hi Trina, thank you for sharing about your personal experience with hair loss. I'm so happy for you that your was able to grow back, that's wonderful! My mom experience hair loss with all three of her pregnancies, too, and has continued to have hair loss ever since (prior to that she didn't have hair loss, and it doesn't seem to be an issue with other ladies in my family, but given that we've both experienced it, I highly suspect there's a genetic component at work).

      Those perks of wig wearing are certainly appealing! I don't know if I'll ever have a room full of wigs like Dolly Parton, but it is fun to think about having several to choice from one day. I've already been wearing "Pin Up" with some of my vintage hats and I'm happy to report that two get along wonderfully! :)

      ♥ Jessica

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  46. Jessica, Thanks so much for sharing your very personal story with us. I think the wig you chose is scrumptious and look forward to seeing your reveal! Also, thanks for sharing your knowledge, which I know will be beneficial to many. Happy New Year! :) Pam

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  47. I am trying to remember what my mother did when she had cancer the first time. Luckily, we had a neighbor across the street that loved wearing fashion wigs, so mom had a good friend as a shopping companion. I seem to remember my mother ended up not liking wigs, so she wore turbans. There should be a swap website for used wigs, so ladies can trade old wigs that they don't like.

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    1. That is a flat out brilliant idea for a website, Kathleen. I know of a couple of forums pertaining to hair loss (I haven't joined, I tend to lurk more when it comes to forums), but have not seen a site that gave people a chance to swap wigs.

      It's lovely that you mom had someone nearby who knew about, and enjoyed wearing, wigs while she was going through chemo. Thank you for sharing that story with me.

      ♥ Jessica

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  48. Wow, the step to shave your head would have been daunting, but I understand how that would feel freeing. Just to have that part of the stress gone would be enough to give you a hopeful boost for the future and a new sense of drive to find something that makes you happy. I'm glad you posted this and let us share in your journey! I'm also quite excited to see some of your wigs (cherry cobbler sounds beautiful...and delicious). ;-)
    A beautiful new year to you, Jessica! Excited to share in your 2013 adventures!
    Jamie
    http://chatterblossom.blogspot.com/

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  49. Ooo, Jessica you've got me itching to see you in pictures with this lovely new mane of yours. I adore the style, quite Bettie Page. :) Just think of it this way, you can have a new hair style every day if you wanted with all kinds of wigs. You know I had a link on amazon for a cute as can be 20s fapper wig for a fairly good price. With bangs of course. I think you could get it in black or blonde. Let me go find it for you!

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  50. This one is the black. I doubt you'd want black, but here it is anyway...
    http://www.amazon.com/Rubies-Costume-Co-Womens-Black/dp/B001B4P6K8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1357318307&sr=8-3&keywords=flapper+wig

    Here's the blonde, which I think would look lovely on you!
    http://www.amazon.com/Rubies-Costume-Co-Womens-Blonde/dp/B004YV8M9M/ref=pd_sbs_a_1

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    1. You are awesome, Sean, thank you very much for both comments and the terrific wig links. I really like how that bobbed wig could be taken in either a 20s direction or a modern one, perhaps even a few other decades in between, too. So cute and fun!

      Huge thanks!!!
      ♥ Jessica

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  51. Jessica, I really enjoyed reading your story knowing we're going through the same thing! Shaving your head does feel rather liberating doesn't it? I've grown to quite like it actually. Finding the right wig for you is almost a never ending search. I've found that price does not always guarantee quality and I've learned that the hardest way! I'd be more than happy to chat with you about these sorts of things if you want to. I have a link to the human hair one I'm wearing now in my blog post that you were so kind to comment on, and I think it was a good buy. The cap is terribly uncomfortable on my little head, but wearing a wig cap underneath helps. It does have a small lace portion in the front so I can style it a bit off my face, and the human hair feels lovely (especially for the price!). Thank you again for reaching out to me today. You've made my heart feel incredibly full <3 You are never alone :)

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    1. Thank you so much, Rochelle, I too am learning that price does not ensure quality or that one will definitely love a wig once they actually try it on. I was surprised how by the inexpensive Jon Renau felt considerably more comfortable the pricey synthetic (a Raquel Welch one) that I bought first (the cap is much less scratchy even right against the scalp, I've worn already for several 10-14 hours stretches and didn't get a headache or feel like I simply had to whip it off by the end of the day).

      Shaving your head feels so liberating, it's true! I've done it twice so far and think I'll be doing it about once every couple of weeks, because I don't want the little "side burn stubble" near my ears to show if I pull the sides of my wig back at all. My husband started going bald early in life and often shaves his hair, too, so now we've started doing each other's heads, which is a really neat thing to share with your spouse for sure.

      You're a truly sweet, caring, understanding person, and I have to second what you said: my heart feels incredibly full because we've meet this morning, too. Thank you so much for everything. I look forward to getting to know you and your blog better, and am sure we'll chat about wigs many more times to come.

      ♥ Jessica

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  52. As many have commented before me, I'm incredibly impressed with your honesty and candor! It's wonderful to hear about your life and what you are going through and how positive you are. You have such an amazingly sweet spirit. I have never experienced anything quite like that, but I can imagine it is quite the bridge to cross. The wig you purchased looks adorable, and I can't wait to see you sporting it!

    xo,
    Em

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    1. Thank you deeply, dear Emma. I sincerely appreciate your sweetness and support. The whole business of wearing a wig full time does take some getting used to, but over all I've found this situation to be a relatively easy one to adjust to (thankfully!), especially with the help of the overwhelming touching support I've received in response to this post.

      Warmest thanks again,
      ♥ Jessica

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  53. That's a tough situation, glad your on your way to finding a solution! I can't say I have any wig knowledge or stories to share unfortunately. I swear it's getting hard to have faith in doctors, half the time they just don't seem to have a clear answer! It must be extremely frustrating for you to not know what is going on medically. I think hair loss is also way more tough for women because they are not 'supposed' to have hair loss and bald areas or a shaved head are not an acceptable style. In reality there are obviously women who suffer hair loss so it's an unfair standard. You do see old ladies with thinning hair.
    I like the wig you ended up buying! The good thing about wearing wigs is now you can change your hairstyle as much as you want, no commitment to a new colour or cut! Something to have fun with :)
    Good on you for making a post about this, is was very well considered and I'm sure it would mean a lot to any other women experiencing hair loss.

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    1. Thank you deeply for your caring, understanding comment, dear Madeline. I echo your sentiments about doctors completely. This is by no means the first medical issue I've encountered which the medical community couldn't provide me with a diagnosis for, thankfully though it (hair loss) is less severe of a problem (by a long shot) than the others. I usually tend to take my health into my own hands via research, lifestyle changes, seeking expert opinions, etc, but nothing I tried (or doctor I saw) could get to the root of the matter. Oh well, such is a life, and a lack of hair really doesn't hurt one at all, especially nicer and nicer wigs are coming on the market all the time, so that's something to be cheerful about.

      Thank you very much again,
      ♥ Jessica

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  54. What a courageous step to take! I truly admire your positive attitude towards such a big change and am looking forward to seeing wonderfully beautiful you with you new locks!

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  55. Dearest Jessica, You are so brave and strong. I can totally understand why you decided to face the chop and think you are in exactly the right head space. I can only imagine how hard it must be to shop oline for something as personal and fit sensitive as a wig.

    I'm not sure if any of the other commenters have suggested contacting major cancer hospitals as they sometimes have recommendations for cancer patients...and the upmarket hospitals in particular generally offer these sort of services to people who generally demand high quality product.

    I can't wait to see your new Betty Page style do, I know irt will look fabo.
    xx Shauna

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    1. Thank you deeply, dear Shauna, that is in an excellent suggestion, and one I shall be looking into right away. I truly appreciate it and your immensely kind words, my dear friend.

      ♥ Jessica

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  56. Hi Jessica,
    I'm new to your blog and this was the first post and geez can I relate! I lost all of my hair 5 years ago due to a medical condition called alopecia univeralis ( a form of alopecia areata) Ive been wearing a wig for 4 years now and highly recommend getting a human hair ( make sure it's European hair) wig. I know they are very costly but they are so worth it. I currently wear a custom made suction wig made by freedom wigs. Whilst it is costly ( mine is 14 inches and cost appprox $5000 AU ) it is so realistic that I have never had anyone tell it was a wig till I told them myself. I can style it anyway as anywhere you part the hair looks like scalp, use heat, dye the hair and even swim in it without it moving. Try your local government for rebates as I know I can get some money back from mine and claim it as a medical expense on my tax. Your local Alopecia support group should be able to give you more info.
    If you are still interested in treatment, ask your GP for a referral to a dermatologist as there are many treatments avilable to help hairloss.

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    1. Hi Mel,

      Thank you very much for your thoughtful comment and for sharing some of your experience with me. I'm sorry that you've had to endure hair loss as well, but am so happy you found a wig that works so well for you now.

      In Canada you can sometimes get a portion of your wig cost covered by the government if you loose your hair due to chemotherapy, but it's my understanding that such is the only way. Without a formal diagnosis (despite my best efforts for years!), let alone being a chemo patient, I don't believe I'll ever get any financial assistance from the government regarding my hair loss. No worries, while $5,000 is incredibly beyond my means, there are other good quality real hair wigs at lower price points and this year I'll be doing my best to save up for one of those.

      I've seen many, many doctors over the years about this matter including GPs, dermatologists, endocrinologists, general surgeons, and naturopaths, and had tons of different tests and examines done, none of which could ever pin down the exact cause/source of my hair loss. I'd happily see others, if I have reason believe answers would be forthcoming, don't get me wrong, but trust me when I say, I've seen tons of dermatologists and other doctors about this matter (across three Canadian provinces and also when I lived in Ireland).

      It's awesome that you have a local alopecia support group! I live in a small town here in Canada and have already checked, we don't have one (nor is there one in any of the surrounding towns). There's a cancer support group, but as I don't have cancer, I wouldn't feel right attending a meeting simply to ask about wigs.

      Thank you again very much for your comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  57. I was shocked and surprised to learn about your hair loss, but also very releaved to find how well you are dealing with it. You are truly brave. I really admire you for how you are handling this and hope you find the perfect wig soon! Thank you for sharing, I'm looking forward to see the wig you have in action, I'm sure you'll look fabulous in it! <3

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    1. Thank you deeply, my sweet friend. Your touching words really mean a lot to me. So excited to debut "Pin up" in just a few days. I'm working on that post as we speak! :)

      Thank you again deeply,
      ♥ Jessica

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  58. I think I saw you in the comments of the last several blogs I commented on yesterday, so I decided to pop over and check out your blog. I've shaved my head many many times but never out of necessity. I've always thought women without hair were incredibly beautiful and that it showed so much confidence and strength. I can't wait to see what wigs you acquire, but I hope you don't ever feel a pressure to have to wear one if you don't feel like it.

    The Fabulous Mrs. Wing

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    1. Thank you so much! I totally agree, there is a certain bold, wonderful beauty to women with bald and/or shaved heads. I don't mind people seeing me with my head shaved and if I wore modern fashions more often, I might even rock a bald look out and about, but it doesn't jive too well with my usual 40s/50s look, so a wig is a must most days. It's so cool that you've shaved your head before by choice, I really admire that and bet you looked gorgeous when you did (just as you do in your photos now).

      ♥ Jessica

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  59. Jessica, you are SO, SO amazing - not only for your candor and fearlessness with which you write this post, but also because it's hot on the heels of the posts where you talk about how wonderful this past year has been for you. Not many women would be able to handle the hair loss as well as you have. About a year ago I started losing my hair due to stress in my professional life, and it was *really* tough to deal with! (I've been working with my doctor and hairdresser and am handling my stress better now, and my hair is now regrowing.) I don't mind talking about it now, but at the time I only talked about it with my husband and a few close friends. I applaud you for telling the world about this, and I can't wait to see your new 'do! I'll be following your wig journey with interest, thank you for your willingness to share your process with us!

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    1. Dear Beth, thank you deeply for sharing some of your own personal (very recent) struggle with hair loss with me. I'm so sorry that you've had to experience that as well, but am so glad that things are starting to improve for you on that front now. I've often had a very stressful life for various reasons (including a massively stressful childhood), and I don't doubt for a moment that stress has contributed in part to my hair loss as well. Unfortunately though, even when I've had relatively un-stressful periods, the gradual loss never let up (which makes me think it's unlikely that stress is the sole factor). I'm super proud of you for feeling confident about discussing your hair loss publicly now, and am so touched that you opted to do so here today with me.

      Heartfelt thanks,
      ♥ Jessica

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  60. I truly want to thank absolutely each and every one of you for your profoundly caring, helpful, supportive comments in response to this post. I have been moved to tears by many of them, and want you to know how very much they mean to me. Many of you shared intimate stories of your own hair loss and/or chronic illness battles with me, and I can't begin to tell you how touched I am by that.

    From the furthest reaches of my heart, thank you for showing me once again why it is such a blessing to be a part of this amazing blogging community.

    Love to you all,
    ♥ Jessica

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  61. Jessica, I love this post and I thank you for sharing it. This is what our world needs to be like - people honestly sharing their true selves with each other and being open about and unashamed of our "flaws." I can't believe how embarrassed I've been in my life of my perceived imperfections - the fact that I've been graying since I was 16, my struggles with my weight, my bipolar. I don't want to be ashamed of those things anymore, and I wish other people going through the same things would know how normal they are. And that's what you've just given to every woman dealing with thinning hair, and to those of us who aren't - reassurance that we all differ from the standardized beauty norms in some way (and cultural norms) and that's the thing that brings us together.

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  62. Dear Jessica,

    I read this yesterday, but was not able to comment at the time. What a strong, brave girl you are. I would have never guessed about your struggle with your hair. You have handled it admirably.

    Hugs,
    Hope

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  63. Interesting that my comment with links to the costuming boards didn't get posted. Is it because I didn't also compliment you? I notice the only Anonymous comment that got posted is the one that that does. I was not insulting and I provided very real information, it's a shame you're obviously biased against anonymous.

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    1. Hi there, I'm really sorry you feel that such would ever be the case, if you've read my site for any amount of time, you'd clearly know that is not the kind of person I am and I'm hurt that you would even imply as much. I always publish any appropriate anonymous comments that I receive, however I did not get one regarding a costume board (I checked my spam and it's not there either). If I did, and it I felt it was appropriate, it would be here with absolutely every other comment I received on this post.

      I always respect my readers and I ask that you please do the same of me.

      Thank you,
      Jessica

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  64. Dear Jessicca, you are unbelievably brave woman. You made right decision in such a complicated situation, and I'm sure your new hair will fit you very much. Happy new year and happy new moments in 2013 :)

    Veronika

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  65. jessica~i wish you all the best this year, and thanks for your candor about your recent struggle. i pray you find the perfect solution!!
    have you contacted lauren rennells at bobby pin blog?? i be she would be able to help you. she uses wigs in her vintage hairstyle tutorials all the time. good luck!
    kelly

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    1. Hi Kelly,

      Thank you very much for your caring, thoughtful comment. I love that blog, but hadn't thought to contact Lauren - what a marvelous suggestion! Thank you!!!

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  66. Jessica, you are simply gorgeous on the inside and out. Your post is very brave and I I'm just positive it will go on to help so many others including people you will never even realize. As someone myself who suffers from a disfiguring and no cure ailment ( my body makes large non-cancerous lipoma tumors all over it) I know that these things can really get you down and in some cases cause depression. The only recourse for the tumors I get repeatedly is surgery and I have a blood clotting disorder which makes surgery a risky and complicated treatment. Some days it is all I can do to stay positive and look on the sunny side. But you've made me realize how important it is for me to keep on keepin on and not be defined by an ailment. I really think you are an amazing person. You will rock that new hair!

    hugs,
    Megan

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    1. Dear Megan, I truly want to thank you deeply for your touching, intimate comment. I'm deeply sorry to hear about the condition that you have, and my heart goes on to you in every way. It's funny, you know, in a way I think my hair loss is such a (relatively) small issue to me because it pales in comparison to the many very serious chronic medical conditions that I've been battling for years. Yes, it's not fun to loss your hair, but it doesn't cause you mind blowing pain, land you in the hospital, put you on meds, put your life at risk, etc - it just means you need to a wear, and that's really no biggie when all is said and done. I'm really proud of you, dear lady, for your courage in the face of your medical issues and am truly touched that you shared what you did with me.

      Wishing you positive health & all the best in 2013,
      ♥ Jessica

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  67. This is the first post I've read on your blog after the wig post distracted me with that fabulous snowy shoot! (clothes/figure envy!!!!)

    You're gorgeous with or without hair. It shines through.

    Just sayin'
    x

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  68. Hi Jessica,

    I loved this post, because you come across so possitive! I hope you find the perfect wig, I like the look of the Pin up one it's really cute. I hope someone reads this and decides to start a vintage inspired wig company I'm sure it would do really well as so many women do need wigs and would appreciate more choice of styles.

    Cathy x

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    1. Hi Cathy, thank you very much for both of your terrific recent blog comments. I second this one with all my might and have been thinking the same thing recently, too. I think there's a real market for quality vintage appropriate wigs. There's so many people (beyond just those with hair loss) who I suspect would enjoy being able to buy and wear vintage wigs (performers, wig fans in general, actresses, models, etc), and a real market for this, I believe. Fingers crossed someone hears are plea!

      ♥ Jessica

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  69. Jessica,

    I've been so busy with work I am only starting to catch up on my blog reading! Wow! You brave woman! As I read this post I imagined those tough decisions you finally had to make and the ups and downs that must have made up the last few weeks while you shaved your head, bought a dud wig and then had to wait for the new one...I really can't even imagine, but I do admire your courage greatly!

    I see that you've had an outpouring of comments on this post and I hope I'm not repeating someone else here (I only read about half of the comments), but I used to style the wigs in the costume shop where I worked and if you are looking to revive the curls on your wig: wet it, use lottabody through it as you would your own hair (or regular hair gel diluted with water works too)and curl the wig with sponge rollers (again as you would with your regular hair) and let it dry. Just brush your wig carefully if it is synthetic. It's easy to damage the strands if you pull too hard while brushing. I had lots of success reviving old wigs and re-styling new ones with this technique.
    I'm looking forward to your insights on this topic as you make your journey through this new phase in your life! (I'm off to read your reveal post now! Can't wait to see your new 'do!)

    Lisa.

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  70. I only just read this post as I am still catching up on my blog reading. What an inspiring entry! Thank you for sharing something so personal with us, dear Jessica. You are one amazing human being, so positive and brave. Honest to God I would have thought that wig was your real hair, if I hadn't read this post! It looks like it's really good quality! <3 <3
    Love
    Monia

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    1. Hi dear Monia, thank you very much for your immensely sweet, touching comment. I love knowing that you think my wig looks real. For such an inexpensive wig (I shopped around to find the best deal I could on it, and paid bout $60 for the wig and shipping to Canada), it is surprisingly good quality. I'd definitely buy this exact wig again, and also others from that brand. They really seem to know what they're doing.

      Thank you again deeply,
      ♥ Jessica

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  71. Hello, Jessica. I don't know if this is the appropriate place to share this with you, but have you heard of Dr. Ray Peat's work? I suffer from a different chronic condition (IBS), and his ideas and the facebook support group have been of great help to me. If you feel like it, google his name along with your condition. In time, I am from Brazil and love vintage fabrics and style. Your blog is lovely and I dare to say that you look younger and even prettier in your new short bangs! :) Wish you all the best, Fernanda.

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    1. Hi Fernanda, thank you very much for your lovely compliments and for your recommendation regarding Dr. Ray Peat. I am familiar with him and his work, yes.

      I'm sorry to hear that you're affected by a serious chronic illness as well. I really appreciate you sharing that intimate fact with me. I have more than twelve different severe chronic illnesses, yet not a single one seems to stand as the answer for my hair loss (I highly suspect it's a combination of factors, with genetics playing part as well). Oh well, losing my hair is nothing compared to the more serious medical issues I'm afflicted with, so in the grander scheme of things it's not a very big deal for me personally (yes, sure, I'd love to have my natural hair, but as that isn't apparently meant to, I'm just making the best of the cards life has dealt me and enjoying me new life as a full-time wig wearer).

      Thanks again for your comment & have a beautiful Valentine's Day,
      ♥ Jessica

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