Deciding to cut your long hair is a big step, and choosing to donate it can make that decision incredibly meaningful. Your hair can become a real-hair wig for someone who has lost their own due to a medical condition. It’s a simple, personal way to offer support and confidence to someone during a challenging time.
But once you’ve made the choice, the next question is where to send your ponytail. Not every organization has the same requirements, and finding the right fit for your donation is the first step in your generous journey.
Finding the Right Organization for Your Hair
Several wonderful organizations specialize in creating wigs from donated hair. The key is to check their current guidelines before you cut. Requirements for minimum hair length, whether they accept gray hair, and if the hair can be chemically treated vary. Children with Hair Loss, for instance, is known for its more inclusive policy, accepting hair that is 8 inches long and dyed. Wigs for Kids has stricter guidelines, requiring 12 inches of un-dyed hair to ensure durability for their wigs.
Preparing Your Hair for Donation
A little preparation ensures your donation can be used. Start with clean, dry hair, but avoid using conditioner on the day you cut it, as it can make the hair slippery to bundle. Section your hair into several ponytails or a single, secure one, using hair ties at both the top and bottom of the section you’re cutting. This keeps all the strands aligned, which is crucial for the wig-making process. Always have a professional stylist make the final cut to ensure a clean, even donation.
What Happens to Your Donated Hair?
Once your ponytail is mailed off, it becomes part of a remarkable process. The hair is sorted by color and length. It is then carefully hand-ventilated, strand by strand, onto a custom-fitted wig cap. This labor-intensive craft results in a high-quality, natural-looking wig that is provided to an individual at little or no cost. Your gift directly contributes to restoring a sense of normalcy and self-esteem.
Donating your hair is a powerful act of kindness. By taking the time to research and prepare, you can ensure your beautiful gift provides the greatest possible comfort to its recipient.