Wig for Cancer Patients

Cancer patients often face hair loss, known as alopecia, as a result of the cancer treatment. Dealing with the emotional challenge of losing hair can be overwhelming for many. Although the hair typically grows back after treatment, to have a good feel many patients use head coverings like wigs, turbans, and scarves until their natural hair regrows. In this blog, you will discover how to start a wig business for cancer patients – 14 Best tips.

Most of the wigs used by breast cancer patients, and blood cancer patients are purchased from specialty wig stores, and this niche market typically has low competition. It’s even possible to operate this type of business part-time with better wig services, especially in a busy urban area with a larger potential customer base. The ​American Cancer Society offers valuable support by providing medical wigs to women who are experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatments and meet certain financial eligibility requirements. For those does not meet the eligibility criteria, finding a place to purchase a wig becomes a priority.

Wigs and hairpieces come in a wide range of styles and colors, providing individuals with natural-looking and comfortable options to enhance their appearance. Wearing a wig can significantly impact one’s self-confidence and sense of control over their appearance. In Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, individuals can obtain wigs free of charge through the NHS. In England, some people may also qualify for free NHS wigs, while others may need to cover the cost themselves.

 The process for obtaining a wig on the NHS varies between hospitals, with some having dedicated wig specialists on-site and others working with external suppliers. While there may be limitations on the available selection of wigs, some individuals may be eligible for more than one NHS wig, although certain hospitals may impose restrictions on the number of wigs a person can receive. It’s important to note that human hair wigs are typically not available through NHS prescriptions, except in cases where the individual is allergic to synthetic wigs or has a skin condition that may be exacerbated by wearing a synthetic wig.

How to start a wig business for cancer patients

​Starting a wig business for cancer patients can be highly rewarding, but it can also be a daunting endeavor. If you’re considering starting your own wig shop or business, you may need help knowing where to begin. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide, covering everything from an overview of the industry to practical steps for promoting your services. You will learn how conventional wig businesses operate and what unique opportunities exist for those catering specifically to cancer patients. Also, it will offer strategies for managing finances, building relationships with customers and partners, setting up infrastructure, and more.

By following these simple yet powerful steps, you can start a wig business tailored to the needs of cancer patients and make a positive impact in their lives.

Understand the Industry

The wig-making business for individuals with cancer is a segment of the Wig & Hairpiece Production industry, encompassing establishments that specialize in producing human hair wigs, hairpieces, and hair extensions for medical and aesthetic purposes. The industry relies heavily on robust consumer spending to drive for its products.

In recent years, the U.S. economy has shown signs of recovery from recession-induced declines, leading to an uptick in the Consumer Confidence Index and disposable income. As economic activity in the United States continues to expand and consumer spending habits are expected to relax, the Wig & Hairpiece Production sector is poised for growth.

Contributing significantly to the U.S. economy, the Wig & Hairpiece Production industry generates over $224 million annually through more than 696 wig production facilities and employs nearly 1,997 workers. Experts project a yearly industry expansion rate of 4.0%, although capturing a sizable market share in this sector remains challenging due to its relatively low barriers to entry.

Moreover, the relatively modest investment required to start a wig manufacturing company, primarily consisting of leasing commercial space and purchasing machinery and initial inventory, has been facilitated by an increase in vacancies and lower leasing rates resulting from the economic recession, enabling new entrepreneurs to secure affordable properties in prime locations over the past five years.

Though the wig-making business faces significant competition, entrepreneurs are attracted to readily accessible marketplaces for hair extensions and similar products. With the potential to develop a unique niche(though There isn’t a niche in the wig-making Industry for those with cancer), entrepreneurs can gain recognition for their products. Sellers can commence by marketing a free wig to a few more samples of their items locally which will help to expand their reach to a national or even international scale.

Conduct Market Research

Extensive market research is vital when starting a medical wig business as it helps to understand client preferences about what type of wigs they prefer in different styles.  You should include human hair wigs, synthetic wigs, and chemotherapy wigs in your product research. There is a wide range of wig bank materials to consider, such as wool, feathers, synthetic materials, and human, horse, or buffalo hair. Securing a reliable wholesale supplier and negotiating the best prices is crucial for maximizing profits. Establishing networks with hospitals and medical centers is also important to receive referrals for patients who have lost their hair.

According to Cognitive Market Research, North America leads the growth in the Medical Wigs market, holding a 40% market share, and is expected to reach a market size of XX Billion USD by 2030. The region’s dominance is due to factors such as a strong healthcare infrastructure, increasing awareness of solutions for medical hair loss, and a large patient pool undergoing side effects due to radiation therapy and chemotherapy treatments. There is a growing preference in this market for high-quality, natural-looking wigs that cater to diverse customer needs.

The Asia Pacific region is also a significant growth hub, commanding a 23% market share and contributing substantially to the overall market size estimated to reach XX Billion USD by 2030. The region’s expansion is driven by increasing demand for medical wigs, influenced by evolving consumer preferences and growing awareness of their benefits. Specifically, the market sees remarkable traction in addressing women’s health and aesthetic choices, as conditions leading to hair loss become more prevalent and personalized beauty solutions gain emphasis. Overall, the Asia Pacific region is poised for sustained growth in the Medical Wigs market in the coming years.

Fix the Most Suitable Legal Entity (LLC, C Corp, S Corp)

In the context of establishing a wig-making factory to support individuals with cancer, the choice of legal structure plays a crucial role in determining the potential growth of the business. Opting for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) provides a protective shield against personal liability. In the event of any legal issues or financial liabilities, only the capital invested in the LLC is at risk, shielding personal assets from potential claims.

In contrast, sole proprietorships and general partnerships do not offer the same level of protection. LLCs offer a streamlined and adaptable operational framework, eliminating the need for formalities such as a board of directors, shareholder meetings, and other administrative obligations. This flexibility can significantly simplify the management and operation of the business.

Legal Documents You Need to Operate

Before starting a medical wig production company in the United States, it is essential to ensure that you have all the necessary legal documentation in place. Without the proper documentation, it is not possible to run a business successfully in the United States, and you may face legal consequences. To be a specialist wig supplier below is a list of essential legal documents required to operate a medical wig production company in the United States:

1. Certificate of Incorporation

2. Business License

3. Taxpayer’s ID/Tax Identification Number

4. Chemical Handler Certificate

5. Health Inspection Certificate

6. Copy of License for the Service Support Facility and/or a Recent Inspection Report

7. Business Plan

8. Non-disclosure Agreement

9. Employee Handbook

10. Employment Agreement (Offer Letters)

11. Operating Agreement for LLCs

12. Insurance Policy

13. Online Terms of Use

14. Online Privacy Policy Document (Essential for Online Payment Portal)

15. Company Bylaws

16. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

17. Building License

18. Franchise or Trademark License (Optional)

Wig Business Infrastructure

Establishing a robust online presence is crucial for any business looking to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. When it comes to launching wig businesses as sole proprietorships, the first step is to develop a compelling website alongside creating engaging social media accounts. Your website serves as a virtual storefront and should be designed to exude professionalism, effectively showcasing your diverse range of wigs. 

Wig makers should ensure that it feature comprehensive product descriptions coupled with high-quality images to give potential customers a clear insight into what you offer. Integrate customer reviews and testimonials to bolster trust and credibility. As a wig specialist, it is equally important to prominently display contact information, and custom wigs making it effortless for customers who have certain medical conditions to reach out with inquiries or concerns. They should never feel the wig as a wig but as their own hair.

Simultaneously, setting up social media accounts on major platforms such as Instagram and Facebook will enable you to keep your audience updated on new offerings, and promotions, and interact with customers, thereby bolstering brand visibility and driving sales over time. 

Suppliers and Types for Your Wigs and Accessories

Once you’ve established a compelling online presence, securing reliable suppliers that can furnish top-notch wigs at competitive prices is the next crucial stage. Thoroughly research different suppliers within the industry, detailed comparing their pricing structures to make an informed decision. It is of utmost importance to prioritize suppliers with reputable ratings for prompt and efficient customer service, as this ensures timely delivery of orders, benefiting both your business and your customers.

Some cancer treatments can cause hair loss or thinning. For many people, wigs help improve self-confidence and quality of life. If they decide to wear a wig, there are several types to choose from. Some resources could help them cover part or all of the cost. Based on the women of color, black people, or whites, having the choice of wig collections with a more natural look describes you as a great wig provider.

There are a lot of different wig styles that can be used by different customers. So, categorize those styles into smaller size, or larger ones (full wig, hair topper, hand-tied wigs, bangs attachment, or curly wig styles).

Wig styles

When it comes to hair accessories for people experiencing hair loss or thinning, there are a few options to consider:

Halo: Halos are hairpieces designed to be worn with a hat or head cover. They typically have hair on the sides but are open on top to provide ventilation and keep your head cooler.

Bangs attachment: In addition to halos, you can also find bangs that can be attached to hats, scarves, or turbans, allowing you to change up your look without a full wig.

Hair topper or top piece: These are hairpieces that add coverage and volume to thinning hair on the top of your head, providing a natural and seamless look.

Full wig: A full wig is a complete head-covering hairpiece that offers coverage for the entire head, providing a versatile and comprehensive solution for hair loss or styling needs.

Cost of the wig

Insurance: When it comes to the cost of a wig, cancer patients can approach their insurance company if they cover cranial hair prosthesis for medical hair loss (alopecia). Many insurance companies like health insurance require a letter or prescription from the doctor. Some insurance companies will cover part or all of the cost, or they might reimburse the customer after they buy the wig. So, mention all these details when your customer needs your support.

Free or low-cost wigs:  In cases where alopecia patients need help paying for a wig, there are a lot of support groups like Macmillan cancer support, it will be a good idea if you are in touch with similar groups. As a social worker and as a benefit to your wig business you can rely on a cancer care team for resources in your area.

Your Wig business should not only sound like sales but also like a supportive team like a family member.

Wig Maintenance and Storage

Unlike regular wigs, medical grade wigs are designed for long-term wear and are often covered by health insurance due to their necessity for medical purposes. Medical-grade wigs are not ordinary hairpieces. They are meticulously designed for individuals undergoing medical treatments like cancer diagnosis that result in hair loss. Like the medical wig industry, your product should also stand out as the best. Say no to a cheaper wig and yes to the right wig. It does not matter how many years of experience you have but it’s about the goodwill of your business.

Maintaining and storing wigs is crucial to ensure their longevity and quality. Here are some detailed tips on how to effectively maintain and store medical wigs:

1. Washing the wig: Depending on the frequency of use, it’s important to wash medical wigs at least once a week or every two weeks for good condition. To do this, use a mild shampoo and conditioner to gently cleanse the wig, followed by a thorough rinse with cool water. Avoid using hot water or a hair dryer as heat can damage the wig fibers.

2. Handling the wig: When brushing or combing the wig, it’s best to use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristled brush to prevent tangles and knotting. It’s important to avoid applying excessive force or tension when styling the wig, as this can cause the wig fibers to break or loosen.

3. Proper storage: When not in use, store the wig on a mannequin head or wig stand to help maintain its shape and prevent tangling. Cover the wig with a clean, dry cloth to protect it from dust, dirt, and other environmental factors.

In addition to these maintenance tips, it’s important to consider the proper storage conditions for medical wigs. Below is a detailed table that outlines the recommended storage temperatures for different wig types:

By following these tips and guidelines, you can help prolong the lifespan of your medical wigs and ensure that they remain in excellent condition for your customers. A piece of expert advice from professional stylists will be an added advantage in increasing the number of wigs for your business.

Major Competitors in the Industry

Starting a business requires a thorough understanding of your competition. When it comes to the medical wig industry, conducting a comprehensive analysis of your competitors is crucial for gaining insights into the market, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and devising strategies to differentiate your business. Below are ten essential steps to conduct a thorough competitor analysis for your medical wig business or wig business:

1. Compilation of Competitors: Begin by creating a comprehensive list of the medical wig businesses operating in your target market.

2. Target Market Assessment: Analyze the target customer base of your competitors. Determine whether they focus on specific demographics such as seniors, cancer patients, alopecia patients, or transgender individuals.

3. Product and Service Evaluation: Examine the range of products and services offered by your competitors, including their quality, pricing, instant access, and delivery options.

4. Analysis of Marketing Strategies: Gain insights into how your competitors attract customers by examining their advertising, promotions, branding, and social media marketing strategies.

5. Online Presence Evaluation: Assess your competitors’ online presence, including their website, e-commerce capabilities, and customer engagement strategies.

6. Pricing Research: Analyze the pricing strategies employed by your competitors to understand their cost-effectiveness, discounts offered, and overall pricing structure.

7. Customer Reviews and Feedback: Review customer reactions to your competitors’ products and services to identify areas for potential improvement in your own business.

8. Strengths and Weaknesses Assessment: Identify the areas where your competitors excel and where they fall short. Utilize this information to your advantage when developing your business strategy.

9. Supplier Identification: Determine the sources from which your competitors procure their products and services.

10. Unique Selling Point (USP) Analysis: Analyze the unique selling points of your competitors and strategize ways to differentiate your business and enhance your competitive edge.

Here are some of the most well-known hair extension brands in the United States and around the world:

1. Babe Hair Extensions

2. Cinderella Hair Extensions

3. Hotheads Hair Extensions

4. Great Lengths Hair Extensions

5. Donna Bella Hair Extensions

6. Klix Hair Extensions

7. Halo Hair Extensions

8. Heat-Free Hair Extensions

9. Galaxy 5000

10. Boho Exotic Studio

11. Indique Hair Extensions

12. So.CAP. USA

13. Shake-N-Go Fashion, Inc.

14. ONYCHair

15. Wig Trendz

16. Belle Noir Beauty

17. CelebWigs

18. TJC

19. WIGGIT

20. Hothair

These companies are highly regarded for their wide range of products, which include both synthetic and real hair wigs. They are known for their commitment to innovation and the high quality of their products. Sisters Dianne Austin and Pamela Shaddock launched their own wig company to supply coiled wigs to women of color across the country. They set as an example of bet competitors and social workers too.

Managing Finances for Your Wig Business

Establishing a robust accounting system is crucial for any business, especially in the wig industry. Accurate record-keeping of all financial transactions is essential for tracking income and expenses. It’s also advisable to consider implementing online payment systems such as PayPal or Stripe to facilitate seamless customer payments. The online store is good news for your customer who are seeking for your products.

As your wig business expands, you may require additional capital to support growth opportunities such as expanding operations or acquiring new equipment for your target market or available market. Small business loans from banks or other financial institutions are potential sources of funding. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter can also be viable options for quickly raising capital without incurring debt.

As a wig entrepreneur, it’s important to be aware of available tax benefits that can help minimize annual tax liabilities. Advance research into potential deductions can save time and money when filing taxes. Engaging a qualified accountant specializing in small businesses can be advantageous, as they possess expertise in navigating cost analysis, and tax laws pertinent to entrepreneurs.

Effective financial management is pivotal to the success of your wig business. By leveraging automation tools, tapping into new markets, and potentially hiring employees or contractors, you can explore avenues to further expand and scale your wig business.

Discuss with an Agent to Know the Best Insurance Policies for You

In the United States, it’s essential to have the necessary insurance policies in place when running a business, especially in the medical wigs production industry. Failing to have proper insurance coverage could lead to serious financial and legal repercussions. It’s crucial to allocate a budget for insurance and seek guidance from an insurance broker to select the most suitable policies for your business. If you are planning to establish a wig medical production company in the United States, you should consider obtaining the following types of insurance:

– General insurance

– Health insurance

– Liability insurance

– Workers’ compensation

– Overhead expense disability insurance

– Business owner’s policy group insurance

– Payment protection insurance

Service Delivery Process of the Business

Medical wigs are typically crafted from synthetic hair, which is composed of polyester, acrylic, and other poly-filament fibers. The production process offers flexibility, as manufacturers can opt to use a single type of fiber or a combination of different fibers.

To begin production, raw materials such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, or other synthetic materials are sourced. Additionally, welding, gluing, and stitching equipment is required for full-scale production.

The resulting medical wigs are designed to be durable, heat-resistant, and able to withstand wear. Manufacturing processes involve ultrasonic waves, precise diameter cutting, heating, welding, sewing, and coating to achieve the desired quality.

Synthetic hair fibers are intricately crafted to mimic the appearance of natural human hair. Manufacturers may utilize single type, monofilament fibers, or a combination of poly-filament fibers in the construction of wigs and hair extensions. Notably, synthetic hair products are more cost-effective than those made from human hair.

Following production, the wigs undergo rigorous quality control checks. Once approved, they are carefully packaged, loaded into distribution trucks, and then distributed for sale. It’s important to note that medical wig production companies have the flexibility to implement business processes and structures that ensure efficiency and adaptability.

Growing and Scaling Your Wig Business

Investing in automation tools is a crucial step to enhance the efficiency of your wig business. By implementing automation, you can streamline various processes, saving time and resources. Automation tools can handle repetitive tasks like customer service inquiries and order fulfillment, allowing you to focus on the growth and expansion of your business. Examples of such tools include inventory management software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, email marketing platforms, and e-commerce software.

Expanding into new markets or segments can significantly boost revenue for your wig business and provide a better customer experience. Researching the needs of different demographics or industries related to wigs and hairpieces can help you tailor targeted campaigns to specific audiences. Consider collaborating with other businesses in the industry to leverage cross-promotion opportunities and offer complementary products or services.

Bringing new employees or contractors on board can support your expansion efforts and free up your time. When hiring, it’s essential to assess their skills and experience to determine the most suitable roles within your company. Clearly outlining job duties and expectations from the outset helps ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities and deadlines.

Marketing Plan Packed with ideas & Strategies

Marketing medical wigs successfully involves a combination of creativity and assertiveness. Although the market for medical wigs is competitive, your products can capture a significant share if they stand out. One of the primary strategies for marketing medical wigs is to generate excitement around your brand. This can be achieved through participation in relevant industry expos and utilizing online and offline platforms such as Instagram and YouTube to promote your products.

Additionally, securing endorsements from well-known celebrities in various fields can significantly boost your brand’s visibility. The endorsement of a celebrity can drive substantial traffic to your products and enhance their acceptance in the market, despite the potential costs involved.

In today’s digital age, leveraging the power of the internet is crucial for marketing your medical wigs. A significant portion of your marketing efforts should be directed at internet users, making your website a crucial marketing tool. The following are some effective marketing ideas and strategies for promoting your medical wigs production business:

1. Introduce your medical wigs and factory by sending introductory letters and brochures to cancer treatment centers, retailers, and other key stakeholders in your target locations.

2. Advertise on the internet through blogs, forums, and social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

3. Establish a basic website to give your business an online presence.

4. Directly market your products to potential buyers.

5. Join local medical wigs production associations to stay updated on industry trends and gain valuable tips.

6. Offer discount days to attract and retain customers.

7. Advertise your business through community-based newspapers, local TV, and radio stations.

8. List your business in local directories and yellow pages ads.

9. Encourage word-of-mouth marketing through customer referrals.

Possible Ways to Retain Clients & Customers

In the world of business, regardless of the industry you operate in, one of the most effective methods to retain existing customers and attract new ones is by consistently delivering results and ensuring customer satisfaction. When your customers are pleased with the products and services you provide, they are less likely to seek out alternatives. 

For instance, if you consistently offer a diverse range of fashionable medical wigs at competitive prices and provide exceptional customer service, you’ll find it much easier to maintain a loyal customer experience. Offering incentives to your customers can help with retention and also encourage repeat purchases while attracting new customers.

To achieve these goals, monitoring your progress and promptly making improvements where necessary is crucial. Investing in customized CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software is essential for effectively managing your customers and cultivating a loyal client base. With a customized CRM system, you can easily stay connected with your clients, conduct quick surveys, introduce new products and pricing seamlessly, acknowledge special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, monitor their progress, and send bulk SMS and personalized emails. Most importantly, it allows you to receive valuable feedback and ensure compliance from your customers.

Conclusion

Being on the journey of establishing a wig business that focuses on serving the needs of cancer patients can be a complex yet rewarding endeavor. By implementing effective strategies and establishing a robust infrastructure, you can build a successful business that significantly improves the lives of those in need. This involves gaining a comprehensive understanding of the type of wig industry, fostering strong relationships with customers and partners and understanding their medical reason, conceptualizing innovative website designs, identifying reliable suppliers, and effectively managing finances to facilitate the growth of your business at your own pace. You can transform this vision into a tangible reality with unwavering dedication and diligent effort.

If you’re considering venturing into the realm of wig businesses tailored to cancer patients, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our specialized tools and resources are designed to assist you in establishing an online store, devising impactful marketing strategies, gaining insights into entrepreneurial finances, and ultimately achieving financial success with your enterprise. Seize the opportunity today to embark on the path to success and leverage all the available resources for launching and managing a thriving wig business that caters specifically to cancer patients.

You can benefit from reading other blogs on how to make money in different ways. Also, comment on your thoughts if any. Good Luck!