Replacement options for those going through medical or age-related hair loss have never been better. The quality of care and product at Richard Kroll Total Image Salon was a great comfort to Northampton's Kim Bucari, medical technologist at Easton Hospital, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and needed a wig that would keep her look consistent through the challenges of chemo.
Kim Bucari
What was the process like working with Richard Kroll Total Image Salon?
The salon was actually our first stop to learn what options were available for a wig; wearing hats or scarves was not an option for me. There was no need to go anywhere else! My husband and I met with Richard and he explained the differences between a chemo wig and a fashion wig and answered all of our questions. We chose a wig close to my own hair in terms of style and color. The salon staff was very professional and caring during the whole process.
What kind of maintenance does your wig require?
There is very little maintenance. I bring my wig back to the salon every four weeks to have it washed and styled. This is something I could have done myself but chose to have the salon do, which gave me one less thing to worry about.
How do you like to style it and what kind of potential does it offer for styling?
There was really only one way to style the wig I chose. Having a variety of style options wasn't really important to me. I just wanted to look as much like I did prior to my chemotherapy as I could.
Have you used other wigs that you could compare your current one to?
I have not personally used any other wigs but I have seen the wigs that are given to cancer patients free of charge. They are hot and very uncomfortable and not made for people who have lost their hair. The wigs Richard Kroll carries for cancer patients are lightweight and very soft against your scalp.
What would you tell people who are beginning the cancer treatment journey?
At the beginning, it's overwhelming. Having a good support system was key for me to get through this past year. The best advice I was given to deal with everything is the question: “How do you eat an elephant?” The answer: “One bite at a time!” You have to approach and conquer one step at a time. Get your rest; it's important. I also found that the way you see things evolves over the whole process; what may be important during one step of the process may not be at the end.
I would like to emphasize to anyone out there going through this process to come into the salon. Talk to Richard; take a look at the wigs. Call your insurance company and check to see how much they will pay toward a wig. You'll be glad you did.
What are some of your favorite fall activities?
I especially enjoy going to the pumpkin patch with our grandchildren. It's also a great time of year to get out for a motorcycle ride to see the leaves as they change color.
Richard Kroll
Owner & Stylist
What does a good wig feel like?
More than a fashion wig, a quality medical wig is designed for comfort and breathability. It's lightweight and easy to maintain at home. You can be outdoors comfortably and feel the air filter through. The part can be rotated in different directions so it doesn't look like a wig, and they also adjust to fit your scalp perfectly.
Tell us about the hair replacement department in your salon.
If our clients endure any medical issues that result in hair loss or thinning, or simply loss from aging or other factors, we're able to help them through that. We can look at a medical-grade wig or a hair replacement. A hair replacement could include toppers, integrations and permanent attachments. When we meet with our clients, we educate them on what products would be best and how to take care of their hair on a daily basis.
How has wig-making design/technology improved since you started?
The new materials being used to make the caps and foundation for the units, and the quality of the craftsmanship in making the fabrics, have come far. Processing of the hair has also improved immensely, making the quality and texture soft and manageable. Years ago, it was rough and stiff.
Now, the density of the material is much thinner, providing maximum comfort and appearance. The hair system looks like real hair.
How did you get started setting Kim up with her new look?
When someone calls to discuss hair loss/thinning or to look at medical wigs, we schedule a complimentary consultation in a private room, and we'll set aside as much time as needed. We discuss what they'd like and try on different styles to narrow down which style and color they feel is best. We can special-order certain colors and lengths and even order a wig with highlights or an overgrown root, if that's the desired look. Once we find the right wig or hair replacement, we can customize it further by layering or taking some weight out of the hair system.
How long does it take to make a custom hair system, from start to finish?
It typically takes six to eight weeks. Usually, you can take a stock hair system and customize it to fit the client and eliminate the wait period for manufacturing. If a client went with a stock product, it can be ready same day or in 48 hours. If we order a wig, we can get it within 24 hours.
What's the most challenging part of your job?
Creating a look for each client that fits their needs. We start by having a very thorough consultation and listening to their wishes. When I combine my thoughts with theirs, we create a beautiful finish and make the client happy with the end result. Accomplishing this gives us the joy of seeing our clients happy with themselves in their new lifestyle with one of our creations. We feel blessed to be able to help them look and feel better.
1980 Catasauqua Rd., Allentown | 610.266.1177 | richardkroll.com
