6 Fashionable Ways to Tie a Headscarf During Breast Cancer Treatment

Dealing with hair loss during breast cancer treatment can be challenging. It happens to about 65% of people going through chemotherapy. A headscarf for cancer patients isn’t just useful for covering up; it can also be a stylish way to show off your personality.

Explore the following easy and fashionable ways to tie a headscarf to help you feel good about yourself and add a bit of flair to your look while undergoing treatment.

The Importance of Headscarves for Cancer Patients

For cancer patients, headscarves are more than just an accessory; they provide both practical benefits and emotional comfort in difficult times. They not only provide comfort and privacy in the face of hair loss but also serve as a powerful symbol of personal strength and style. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from wearing a headscarf:

• Comfort and protection. Hair loss due to chemotherapy can result in follicle damage and reduce sebum production, leaving your scalp feeling itchy or sensitive. A headscarf offers ample protection for dry, sensitive skin and provides a barrier against elements like UV rays and wind that can irritate the skin.
• Temperature regulation. You can lose up to 10% of your body heat through your head, making it vital to wear a head scarf to maintain your body temperature.
• Style and self-expression. Available in various materials and designs, headscarves allow you to retain your personal style and boost your self-confidence.
• Privacy and control. They offer a way to control how and when to reveal the effects of treatment, giving you a sense of privacy.

Chic Ways to Tie a Headscarf for Cancer Patients

A headscarf offers a versatile way to not only protect your scalp and improve your comfort but also give you the opportunity for creative expression and boost your confidence. Some stylish ways to tie your headscarf include:

Basic Headscarf Knot Style

This knot is a simple and classic way to wear a headscarf. It’s easy to tie, provides good coverage and comfort, and gives you a put-together, neat appearance.

Select a square scarf made of a soft, non-irritating fabric like cotton or silk. The scarf should be large enough to cover your head completely; around 27”x 27” is ideal for most people.

Lay the scarf flat and fold it diagonally to form a triangle. Place the scarf on your head with the folded edge across your forehead and the tip of the triangle at the back of your head. The two ends should be hanging down over your shoulders.

Take the two ends of the scarf at the sides and bring them to the back of your head, over the triangle's tip. Tie them into a secure but comfortable knot. Avoid tying it too tightly.

Adjust the front of the scarf so that it sits comfortably on your forehead. You can also tuck in any loose fabric at the sides for a neater look. Tuck the tip of the triangle (the part at the back of your head) into the knot to secure it and ensure full coverage of your head.

The Turban Style

A turban-style scarf knot is an elegant, sophisticated look, ideal for wearing to the office or out on the town. This style features a twist or knot that sits at the front of the head or slightly off to one side, creating volume at the crown. The turban style is wrapped snugly around the head, ensuring it stays securely in place. This makes it a practical choice for all-day wear.

Choose a long, rectangular scarf at least 15” wide when tying this style. The length is crucial as it needs to wrap around your head multiple times. Place it at the back of your head, ensuring both ends are equal in length at the front.

Bring the two ends to the front of your head. Cross them over your forehead, then twist them around each other once or twice, depending on the length of the scarf. After twisting, take each end back to the nape of your neck, following the line of your head.

Tie a knot at the nape of your neck. Tuck loose ends or excess fabric into the wrap for a neat look. Adjust the front part of the turban to sit comfortably on your forehead. You can also arrange the fabric to create pleats or folds for a more textured look.

Bohemian Twist Style

The Bohemian Twist is a laid-back and stylish way to wear a headscarf, adding a boho-chic vibe to your outfit. For this, use a long, rectangular scarf, preferably around 60” long, made of cotton or silk for easy twisting and draping.

Start by folding the scarf in half lengthwise. Place it over your head with the middle at the back of your neck and the ends hanging in front. Cross and twist these ends near your chest, then lift the twist to your forehead or slightly back, depending on your preference.

Next, wrap the ends back to the nape of your neck, following your head’s shape for a natural look. Tie them in a knot or bow at the back, tucking in any loose fabric for a tidy finish.

Adjust the front twist for your desired look – either sleek against your head or slightly puffed for more volume. The overall style should appear effortless and relaxed, with a touch of asymmetry or casual draping to enhance the bohemian feel.

Headband Style

The headband style of tying a headscarf is an excellent choice for cancer patients looking for something simple, stylish, and comfy. It’s easy to do and great for adding a bit of personal flair to your wig or when your hair starts growing back in.

Choose a long, rectangular scarf and fold the long edges of the scarf into the center. Then, fold the scarf in half lengthways to create a narrow strip that hides the edges. For a classic headband look, a narrower fold is ideal.

Place the middle of the scarf at the base of your neck, with the ends coming forward over your shoulders. Bring the two ends of the scarf up to the top of your head. Tie them in a secure knot or bow. Alternatively, start by placing the center of the folded scarf on your forehead and tying the knot at the nape of your neck; this creates a smoother look.

Once tied, slide the scarf back slightly to sit like a headband. You can position it further back for more coverage or closer to the forehead for a narrower band look. For an extra touch, you can add accessories like brooches, flower clips, or scarf pins.

Rosette Detail Style

A rosette on your headscarf is a beautiful way to add charming detail to your outfit and give the illusion of hair. A square scarf works best for this style. Lighter, more pliable fabrics like silk or cotton are ideal as they are easier to fold and twist into a rosette.

Lay your scarf flat and fold it diagonally to form a large triangle. Drape the scarf over your head with the longest side of the triangle across your forehead and the opposite corner falling down the back of your head. The two other corners should be hanging over your shoulders.

Bring the two ends of the scarf toward the back of your head. Make sure the scarf is snug but comfortable. You can secure the two scarf ends using an elastic band for a firmer fit.

Once at the back of your head, twist the two ends together in the same direction. Continue twisting them until they form a tight spiral. Take the twisted spiral and wrap it around itself to form a bun-like shape resembling a rosette.

To keep the rosette in place, tuck the loose ends of the spiral into the folds of the bun or the elastic if you used one. Adjust the tightness and positioning to get the perfect rosette shape.

Elegant Twist

The elegant twist is versatile and works well for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. It’s an easy way to add a touch of sophistication to your outfit while keeping your headscarf securely in place.

Choose a long, lightweight scarf, like silk or soft cotton, for a comfortable and smooth twist. Fold it in half lengthwise to make it more manageable. Place the middle of the folded scarf at the back of your head, ensuring the ends are even at the front. Bring these ends forward, hanging in front of your face. Twist them together firmly but not too tightly to maintain volume.

Once fully twisted, wrap the scarf around one side of your head in an asymmetrical fashion, adding elegance. Finally, secure the twist at the nape of your neck, either with a knot or by tucking the ends under the twist and fastening with a couple of barrettes or hairpins.

Alternatives to Tying a Headscarf

While tying a headscarf gives a range of versatile options for protecting your scalp and styling your outfit during cancer treatment, the knotting process can be time-consuming. If you’re feeling fatigued from your treatment or need a head covering that is easy to grab and go, a Chemo Beanie is the perfect option.

Chemo Beanies offer the same chic look as a knotted headscarf, but they come pre-tied and are made from breathable stretch fabric. You can just slip the Chemo Beanie over your head for an instant style update.

Chemo Beanies come in many colors, textures, and patterns. From pleated eggplant-colored Danielle to the whimsical, floral Gayle model, there are numerous styles to choose from.

Embrace Your Style with Confidence During Breast Cancer Treatment

Headscarves for cancer patients can help you regain your confidence after hair loss due to chemo. At Mastectomyshop.com, we carry an extensive selection of head coverings, from wigs to hats with hair to Chemo Beanies, to help support you through your treatment journey. Explore our complete selection of products today.