Millions of people worldwide struggle with hair loss, affecting millions more daily. Organizations like Hair We Share offer free wigs to children and teens suffering permanent medical hair loss and adults based on financial need.
Donating Your Hair
Millions of people suffer from hair loss for various reasons – illness, stress, hereditary factors, or simply natural aging can all have an impactful result that affects one’s self-perception and confidence. Luckily some charities utilize donated hair in creating wigs for those in need.
Before deciding to donate their hair, those thinking about doing so should research various charities they’re considering to ensure they meet the requirements and understand what will become of their donation. It would also be prudent to find a trusted hairstylist who knows about this process so they can perform the cut for them.
The minimum hair length accepted varies between organizations, with most mandating at least 12 inches long for measuring purposes. Each ponytail or braid should be tightly secured using rubber bands, while curly locks must be pulled straight for accurate measurement.
The Impact of hair Donation
Many are searching for ways to help those in times of need, whether through donations to cancer organizations or becoming advocates. One selfless yet heartwarming way people can make an impactful difference is by donating their hair.
Hair donation organizations assist children and adults who suffer from medical hair loss, including chemotherapy-undergoing children and women suffering from radiation therapy, alopecia, or burns. Their wigs aim to give these recipients comfort and confidence.
Human hair remains the premier material for making wigs, although synthetic fibers have quickly gained popularity over time. Hair donation has become more critical now that the HIV pandemic has led to an increased need for wigs; synthetic wigs, while not as luxurious, tend to be cheaper to create and more comfortable than their natural counterparts when worn on the head. They’re also more durable and long-wearing.
How to Prepare for a Hair Donation
Hair is integral to many people’s sense of identity, and it can be painful when lost. Luckily, some organizations accept donations of human hair to be turned into wigs for those experiencing hair loss.
If you’re considering donating your locks, you must do your research first. Find an organization you feel confident presenting them to, and be sure to follow its rules for cutting and preparation.
Finding a salon specializing in hair donation cuts and having an established relationship with your organization will help cut your locks according to their specifications.
Before sending off your hair donations, ensure it is clean and dry. Unless specified by your chosen program, hair should be in a ziplock bag or outer envelope to reduce mold during shipping. Most programs provide donors with a barcode to track it from donor to recipient.
How to Make a Hair Donation
Many organizations that provide wigs to those suffering medical hair loss, like Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, accept hair donations. Before cutting your locks, be sure to read their guidelines first and abide by them.
Most organizations only accept hair that measures at least 8 inches long and has been packaged into a ponytail or braid with rubber bands to secure both ends – loose hair or clippings found on the floor will not be accepted.
As part of your salon appointment preparations, ensure you know exactly how much hair to bring so as not to waste any. On average, it takes 9-12 ponytails for one wig, and most stylists offer discounted haircuts when donating hair directly to a particular salon.
