Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1120507
33 When a woman loses her hair, it's almost like she loses part of her identity. Wig and scalp specialist Deb McMillin and her professional team at City Looks guide women through this emotional experience, sharing in-depth knowledge and providing expert care in a safe, supportive space. Nestled within City Looks, a full-service, 6,400-square-foot hair salon and spa that's been a Charleswood institution for more than 20 years, the wig centre was launched seven years ago. It offers hundreds of wig options made from human hair or synthetic materials in a spectrum of colours and styles, along with restorative products and education about hair and scalp care. "About half of our guests are in cancer treatment," says McMillin, a co-owner of the company. "We'll teach them what to expect when they're losing their hair and how to deal with it properly." When hair loss begins, the wig centre experts ease the process by removing the remaining hair. Rather than shaving the head down to the scalp, it's better to leave some stubble to prevent the discomfort of ingrown hairs. "We offer that service included in the price of the wig, followed by a eucalyptus and mint scalp treatment," McMillin says. "We play music and we try to make it a gentle experience." A well-being kit is available. It contains an eight-month supply of shampoos and serums that can help stimulate healthy regrowth and slow down "chemo curl," which occurs when follicles become congested with medication. The wig centre has three private consultation rooms and its own private exit for guests who prefer not to use the main entrance. Natural light streams into the area, and McMillin encourages guests to come in during daylight hours to make it easier to choose an ideal colour. "Then it takes one to two weeks for hair to come in. If it needs tailoring or sewing, we'll do that too," she says. "It's like second nature for us to deal with fitting, framing, colour and cut. We'll help them navigate what looks best." The wig centre is also an excellent resource for women with fine or thinning hair due to genetics, aging and a variety of medical conditions. "In the next 10 years, women will have as much female pattern baldness as men do. Just like heart attacks and stress are going up in women, so is hair loss," McMillin says, adding that many women don't know dry shampoo can be a contributing factor. Trichology treatments, similar to a facial for the scalp, can help stimulate hair growth, keeping the follicles clean and increasing oxygen and blood flow. McMillin started out as a stylist more than 34 years ago, and has advanced her education throughout her career. She chose to specialize this field to provide better treatment for women in need of alternative hair services, and her team shares her commitment. "All of us have been touched by cancer. I couldn't have done this job if I hadn't survived the heartbreak of my mom's loss," she says. "My team is amazing. You need to have a great love and compassion for people to work in this department. We love to empower our guests to rediscover their confidence and feel like themselves again." ❚ To learn more, visit www.citylooks.ca. compassionate hair care WIG AND SCALP EXPERTS RESTORE WOMEN'S CONFIDENCE By Jennifer McFee DEB MCMILLIN City Looks Salon, Spa and Wig Centre