Tying a headscarf can be a pretty daunting task when you are not used to it and we're really grateful to Lindsey Hoyle from Chemotherapy Headwear for sharing this guide with us.
There are 2 types of chemotherapy head scarf: one which is integrated into a jersey hat and is often known as an 'easy-tie' head scarf and a plain square which is most likely what you would recognise as a more traditional head scarf. Both styles have their benefits and uses and with a bit of practice they can be tied very easily and quickly.
Easy-Tie headscarves
This is probably your best bet if you want to wear a headscarf, but don't have the time or the inclination to learn how to tie a square headscarf. Easy-tie headscarves can be put on and tied in seconds and can be taken on & off already tied which is useful if you have recently had surgery and raising your hands to fiddle with headscarves might not be so easy.
Square headscarves
Square head scarves are also a popular choice as they allow many ways of styling and provide the opportunity to add your own flare. These type of headscarves can be worn with or without a hat and they can also be worn with a wig.
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How to tie a chemo headscarf
​With chemotherapy head scarves becoming more and more popular among cancer patients we get asked many questions about how to tie them, here are some of our favourites. If you want a simple way to tie it, get a hairband and drape the fabric over your head, gathering the ends into a ponytail.
On days when you want to be more creative, there are 3 common styles of wearing chemotherapy head scarves, each of which needs to be tied in a different way, these are:
1. The Free Spirit
Using a square chemo head scarf, fold it from corner to corner so it makes a triangle, then fold it in half once more (if needed) so it becomes a smaller triangle. Place the chemotherapy scarf on your head, the long part needs to be across the forehead and the pointed part of the scarf must be at the back of the head. To tie the scarf, pull both ends behind your ears around the back of the head.
2. The Grace Kelly
This is a popular look that works with all chemotherapy head scarves. Make a rectangle by folding the chemo scarf in half, then wrap the scarf around the head similar to a hood (rather like Little Red Riding Hood). The chemo scarf can be tied using the two ends at the front or if the scarf is long enough one end can be pulled over the other and it can hang down the back.
3. The Rosette
Drape a large square cancer scarf over the head then pull both ends of the scarf to one side so they are close to the ear. The ends of the scarf should then be knotted/tied together. Taking one tail of the scarf, twist it as thickly as possible then swirl around the knot. Finally, tie the end of the 'rosette' that has just been created with the other, hanging end.
We sell a range of chemo headscarves and other cancer headwear in the Cancer Headwear section of the CancerPal MarketPlace.