When you're preparing for chemotherapy and the possibility of hair loss, finding a wig that fits properly can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering: How do I know what size I need? Can I measure myself at home? What if I get it wrong?
Here's the reassuring truth: measuring your head for a medical wig is simpler than you think, and getting accurate measurements is something you can absolutely do yourself with a few basic tools and some guidance.
At Enhanced Hair, we've helped thousands of Canadian women find perfectly fitting wigs over our 28+ years in business. Whether you're planning a virtual consultation or preparing for an in-person appointment, understanding how to measure your head properly will help you feel more confident and ensure your wig is comfortable throughout your treatment journey.
Why Accurate Head Measurements Matter for Medical Wigs
Unlike fashion wigs that you might wear occasionally, medical wigs need to fit securely and comfortably because you'll likely be wearing yours daily for several months. An ill-fitting wig can cause headaches, slip during normal activities, or create pressure points that become increasingly uncomfortable—especially when your scalp may be more sensitive during chemotherapy.
Proper measurements ensure:
- Security: Your wig stays in place during daily activities without constant adjustment
- Comfort: No tight bands causing headaches or loose areas creating friction
- Natural appearance: A well-fitted wig sits at the correct position on your hairline
- Confidence: When your wig fits properly, you can focus on healing rather than worrying about your hair
Many Canadian women worry about ordering wigs for cancer patients online because they're concerned about sizing, but with accurate measurements, you can shop confidently—whether virtually or in person.
What You'll Need to Measure Your Head
Before you begin, gather these simple items:
- Fabric measuring tape: The flexible kind used for sewing (not a rigid carpenter's tape measure)
- Mirror: Helpful for checking positioning, though not essential
- Paper and pen: To record your measurements
- Someone to help (optional): While you can measure yourself, having assistance makes the process easier and more accurate
- Your natural hair: If you still have hair, pull it as flat as possible or secure it in a low style
If you don't have a fabric measuring tape, you can use a piece of string or ribbon, then measure it against a ruler afterward. However, for the most accurate results, a fabric tape measure is worth the small investment—you can find them at any craft store across Canada for just a few dollars.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Head for a Medical Wig
Professional wig fitters take several key measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Here's how to replicate these measurements at home:
1. Circumference (The Most Important Measurement)
Your head circumference determines your basic wig size and is the single most important measurement.
How to measure: Place the measuring tape around your head where the wig will sit—typically about 1/2 inch above your eyebrows in front, above your ears on the sides, and across the occipital bone (the bump at the back of your head, just above your neck). Keep the tape level all the way around and snug but not tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the tape and your head comfortably.
Average range: Most women measure between 21-23 inches (53-58 cm). Petite sizes are typically under 21 inches, average is 21-22.5 inches, and large is 22.5 inches and above.
Pro tip: Measure three times and use the average to ensure accuracy. Even slight variations in tape placement can affect the measurement.
2. Front to Nape
This measurement determines the length from your hairline to the nape of your neck.
How to measure: Start the tape at your natural hairline (or where it would be) at the centre of your forehead. Bring it straight back over the top of your head, down to the centre of your nape (where your hairline ends at the back of your neck).
Average range: Typically 14-15.5 inches (35-39 cm).
3. Ear to Ear Across Forehead
This measurement helps determine where the wig will sit across your hairline.
How to measure: Place the tape at the top of one ear (where it attaches to your head, just above the ear opening). Bring it across your forehead along your natural hairline to the same point on the other ear.
Average range: Usually 11-12.5 inches (28-32 cm).
4. Ear to Ear Over Top
This measurement goes over the crown of your head from ear to ear.
How to measure: Start at the top of one ear (same starting point as the previous measurement). Bring the tape straight up and over the crown of your head to the same point on the opposite ear.
Average range: Typically 12-13.5 inches (30-34 cm).
5. Temple to Temple
This measurement determines the width across the front of the wig.
How to measure: Measure from temple to temple around the back of your head, following the natural hairline. The tape should pass across the nape area where your neck meets your head.
Average range: Usually 14-15.5 inches (35-39 cm).
6. Nape of Neck
This measurement indicates the width of your hairline at the nape.
How to measure: Measure straight across the nape area at the bottom of your hairline, from behind one ear to behind the other.
Average range: Typically 4-6 inches (10-15 cm).
Understanding Wig Sizes and Adjustability
Once you have your measurements, how do they translate to actual wig sizes? Most medical wigs come in three standard sizes:
- Petite: Circumference under 21 inches
- Average: Circumference 21-22.5 inches
- Large: Circumference 22.5 inches and above
However, here's something many Canadian women don't realize: most quality medical wigs feature adjustable tabs or straps inside the cap that allow for customization. These adjusters typically provide 1-2 inches of flexibility, which means if you're between sizes or if your head size changes during treatment (which can happen), your wig can be adjusted accordingly.
When you work with Enhanced Hair for your medical wig needs, our experienced team can help you understand which size will work best based on your complete set of measurements—not just your circumference. Some women with an average circumference might need a petite cap if their head is shorter front to back, while others might need adjustments for width.
Special Considerations for Chemotherapy Patients
If you're measuring your head before beginning chemotherapy, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:
Timing Your Measurement
Ideally, measure your head before you lose your hair, as this represents your true head size. Some women worry their head will "shrink" after hair loss, but your skull size remains the same—it's just easier to measure accurately without hair. If you still have hair when measuring, keep it as flat as possible by braiding it, using a wig cap, or securing it close to your scalp.
Scalp Sensitivity
During chemotherapy, your scalp may become more sensitive. If this happens, a wig that felt perfectly comfortable initially might begin to feel tight. This is why adjustable wig caps are so valuable for medical hair loss patients. You can loosen the fit slightly without compromising security.
Weight Loss or Gain
Some cancer treatments cause changes in weight and body composition, which can affect your head size slightly. If you experience significant weight changes (more than 15-20 pounds), you might want to re-measure, though most women find that adjustable tabs accommodate these minor fluctuations.
What to Expect During a Professional Wig Fitting
While measuring yourself at home is helpful preparation, nothing replaces a professional fitting—whether virtual or in-person. Here's what happens during a fitting with Enhanced Hair:
In-Person Fittings
During an in-person appointment at one of our Ontario locations, your wig specialist will:
- Take comprehensive measurements using professional techniques
- Assess your head shape and any unique fitting needs
- Help you try on different wig styles and sizes
- Make real-time adjustments for the perfect fit
- Cut and style the wig to match your preferences
- Show you how to adjust the fit at home if needed
Virtual Consultations
If you're unable to visit in person, our virtual wig consultation service provides personalized support from home. During a virtual appointment:
- We guide you through taking your own measurements via video call
- You can show us different wig options from your location
- We provide expert recommendations based on your measurements and preferences
- We explain how to adjust your wig once it arrives
- You receive the same compassionate, expert care as an in-person visit
Many Canadian women across the country rely on our virtual consultation service, especially those in remote areas or who are immunocompromised during treatment.
Common Head Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, some measuring errors are easy to make. Watch out for these common mistakes:
- Measuring too tightly: Your wig needs to fit snugly but comfortably. If you pull the measuring tape too tight, you'll get an inaccurate small measurement
- Measuring over bulky hair: Thick ponytails or buns will give you measurements that are too large
- Inconsistent tape position: Make sure the tape stays level around your head for circumference
- Using a metal tape measure: These don't conform to your head's contours and will give inaccurate readings
- Measuring only once: Always take each measurement 2-3 times to ensure accuracy
- Forgetting to write measurements down: It's easy to mix up numbers, so record everything immediately
Beyond the Numbers: Fit Comfort and Personal Preference
While measurements provide an essential starting point, comfort is ultimately subjective. Some women prefer a slightly looser fit, while others want maximum security. Your lifestyle, activity level, and personal sensitivity all play roles in what feels right to you.
This is why we encourage all our clients—whether shopping for cancer wigs in Canada or hair toppers for other forms of medical hair loss—to communicate openly about comfort during fittings. A wig that measures "correctly" on paper might still need minor adjustments to feel perfect on your unique head.
When Your Wig Arrives: Checking the Fit
Once you receive your medical wig, here's how to assess whether the fit is correct:
- The wig should sit at your natural hairline (about 1/2 inch above your eyebrows), not too far forward or back
- The ear tabs should align with the tops of your ears
- You should be able to fit 1-2 fingers between the wig and your head comfortably
- The nape should rest naturally at the base of your hairline without gapping
- No pressure points should develop after wearing for 30+ minutes
- The wig shouldn't slide when you look down or move your head from side to side
If something doesn't feel right, don't hesitate to reach out. At Enhanced Hair, we're committed to ensuring every client has a wig that fits beautifully and comfortably throughout their treatment journey.
Your Next Steps: Getting Expert Support
Measuring your head is an important first step toward finding the perfect medical wig, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Whether you're just beginning to research options or you're ready to find your ideal wig, professional guidance makes all the difference.
At Enhanced Hair, we've spent nearly three decades helping Canadian women experiencing medical hair loss feel confident and beautiful. Our team understands the unique needs of chemotherapy patients, and we're here to support you with compassionate, expert care—whether you visit us in person in the Greater Toronto Area or connect with us virtually from anywhere in Canada.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Book your free virtual consultation with our experienced wig specialists today. We'll walk you through the measuring process, answer all your questions, and help you discover a medical wig solution that looks natural, feels comfortable, and helps you face treatment with confidence.
Remember: finding the right wig isn't just about measurements—it's about finding a compassionate partner who understands your journey and is committed to helping you feel like yourself again.