Many of the headwear problems people describe to us come down to fit. A cap that keeps moving, a turban that feels too tight across the forehead, or a scarf that becomes uncomfortable after an hour can all be signs that the size or shape isn't quite right.
The good news is that a few simple checks can make a big difference.
Why fit matters after hair loss
When you have a fuller head of hair, your hair adds both bulk and friction underneath your headwear. After hair loss, the same hat or cap can behave differently. Some styles may feel looser, slide more easily or sit differently around the back of the head.
At the same time, pressure from a close-fitting cap now sits directly against the scalp. And because the scalp can become more tender or sensitive during chemotherapy or other treatments, a fit that once felt comfortable may suddenly feel too tight.
This is why measuring properly is so useful. It only takes a minute and gives you a much better starting point when choosing headwear.
How to measure your head
You'll need a soft fabric tape measure, like the kind used for sewing.
Place the tape around your head where your headwear would naturally sit. As a guide, position it about 2.5cm (one inch) above your eyebrows at the front, just above the tops of your ears at the sides, and around the fullest part of the back of your head — the slight curve above the nape rather than below it.
Keep the tape comfortably snug. It should lie flat against your head without pulling, digging in or leaving an indentation.
Write the measurement down in centimetres. Most adults measure somewhere between about 52cm and 60cm, but head sizes vary, so your own measurement is what matters most.
Keep the number handy, and remeasure if your hair volume changes significantly. You can then compare it against our size guide when choosing a style.
No tape measure? Use string or ribbon
If you don't have a fabric tape measure, use a non-stretch piece of string or ribbon.
Wrap it around your head in the same position, mark where the ends meet, then lay it flat against a ruler or measuring tape to check the length.
Try to avoid anything thick or stretchy, as this can make the measurement less accurate.
What “one size” really means
“One size” doesn't mean that every headwear style will fit every person in exactly the same way.
It usually means the design has enough stretch or adjustability to suit a particular size range. The exact range varies between brands, fabrics and styles.
If your measurement sits comfortably within the stated range, a one-size style will usually be a good place to start. If you're close to either end of the range, adjustable, gathered or elasticated styles may give you a more comfortable fit.
Your measurement can change as your hair changes
The size of your head itself doesn't change because of hair loss, but the measurement you get over your hair can.
A fuller head of hair adds volume, so a measurement taken before treatment may be slightly different from one taken after hair loss.
If you're buying headwear ahead of treatment, measure as close to the scalp as you comfortably can rather than allowing the tape to sit loosely over the hair.
The same can happen during regrowth. A cap that felt roomy during early regrowth may gradually feel more snug as your hair becomes thicker.
Signs your headwear may not fit properly
Persistent redness, deep pressure marks or soreness. These can be signs that the headwear is too tight or pressing too firmly against the scalp.
A headache that develops while wearing it. Tight headwear can create uncomfortable pressure, especially when worn for long periods.
It keeps riding up or shifting. This can happen if the cap is too loose, too tight, too shallow or simply the wrong shape for your head.
There's a large gap at the nape. You may need a smaller size or a style with a gathered, elasticated or adjustable back.
You're constantly adjusting it. If you keep thinking about where your headwear is sitting, the fit or shape probably isn't quite right.
Different fabrics fit differently
Two caps with the same stated size can still feel very different depending on the fabric and construction.
Bamboo jersey blended with elastane can provide soft, flexible stretch and good recovery, which helps the fabric adapt comfortably to the shape of the head.
Standard woven cotton usually has much less stretch, so the cut and shape of the headwear become more important.
Pre-tied bandanas and turbans may also combine structure at the front with gathering, elastic or stretch at the back.
This is why it's useful to check both the size guide and the fabric information before choosing a style. If you're new to scarves, our guide to choosing a comfortable headscarf covers what to look for.
If you're between sizes
If you fall between two sizes, check the individual product guidance rather than relying on one rule for every style.
For a sensitive scalp, comfort should come first. In many cases, a slightly more generous fit with an adjustable or gathered back will feel better than something that creates constant pressure.
Headwear should feel secure, but it shouldn't feel tight.
Comfort is the best sign of a good fit
The right headwear should stay in place without constant adjustment, provide comfortable coverage and feel gentle enough to wear for several hours.
If you notice pressure, slipping or irritation, it doesn't necessarily mean the style is wrong for you — it may simply mean you need a different size, fabric or shape.
Every product page at Deresina includes fit and fabric information, and our size guide sets out the measurements for each style. If you're unsure, contact us with your head measurement and we'll be happy to help you find the right option.
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This article shares our own recommendations, based on what we have learned from our customers over the years. It is not medical advice. If anything here relates to your treatment, your symptoms or your health, please check with your doctor or treatment team.
