Chemotherapy patients, burn victims and individuals with alopecia areata often lose their hair or do not have the ability to grow hair, according to CharityGuide.org. This can be a traumatic event for many people, especially children. Donating real human hair can provide these individuals the ability to have a wig that looks more like the hair they used to have. Donating hair provides caring citizens the chance to reach out and help those who have lost their hair to feel confident again. The process for donating is easy and open to anyone.
Step 1
Research charities that collect hair and help make wigs. The Internet can be a great resource for this. Two major charities include "Wigs for Kids" and "Locks of Love."
Step 2
Contact the charity or review their website to understand their specifications. Most charities have the same guidelines, but they may have special requests.
Step 3
Grow your hair to a minimum of 10 inches. Unless you plan to cut your hair off at the scalp, you will want to grow a few extra inches. The hair from tip to tip, when cut, will need to be 10 inches long. Avoid coloring your hair while you grow it.
Step 4
Prepare to cut your hair by washing it, drying it and placing it in a ponytail holder or a braid.
Step 5
Cut the hair in a straight line. Keep the hair in the pony tail holder to prevent strands from falling out. Some hair salons offer discounted prices when you advise them of your plans. They may even mail the package for you so be sure to ask before you make your appointment. Charities do not require that hair be cut professionally.
Step 6
Place the hair in a dry, clean, plastic bag. Put the bag, sealed, inside the padded mailer. Include any necessary forms that are specific to the charity.
Step 7
Address the mailer with the appropriate information provided by the charity. Apply postage and mail it.
Tips and Warnings
- All colors of hair are needed. Hair cut in the past is usable if it was stored in a ponytail holder or braid.
- Do not send hair swept off the floor, as it is not usable. Do not send hair that has been bleached or over-processed.
Things You'll Need
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Hair dryer
- Ponytail holder
- Scissors
- Plastic bag
- Padded mailing envelope
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