Chemotherapy Hair Loss · Cranial Prosthesis Specialist · San Mateo, CA

Before, ideally as soon as possible after your diagnosis. We need time to take measurements and build your hair system and wig before treatment starts so everything is ready when hair loss begins. Coming in after treatment has started is completely fine too. We meet you wherever you are.

A hair system integrates with your existing hair and attaches to your scalp. During chemotherapy, it sits on top of your head and your natural hair falls out beneath it, so there is no visible moment of loss. A wig covers the scalp fully once significant hair loss has occurred. At Bond, we build both, matched to each other, so your transition between them is seamless and undetectable.

A cranial prosthesis is the medical term for a hair prosthesis fitted for hair loss caused by a medical condition, including chemotherapy, alopecia, and other diagnoses. It is the term most health insurers and HSA/FSA administrators use when processing reimbursements. Bond Hair Bar provides human hair systems and wigs fitted and documented as cranial prostheses for clients who need it for insurance or reimbursement purposes. A superbill is available for a $150 fee. Ask us at your consultation.

Every appointment at Bond takes place in a private room, by appointment only. There is no open salon floor. You have a dedicated specialist, a private shampoo bowl, and a room that is entirely yours for the duration of your visit.

As your hair sheds during chemotherapy, it collects underneath your hair system rather than falling visibly. At each maintenance visit, we gently clean out the shed hair from underneath, clean the system itself, and reattach it. As treatment progresses and coverage needs increase, we transition you to your corresponding wig with medical-grade taping or bonding. All of this happens in a private room with a private shampoo bowl.

Once your natural hair grows back to about 3 inches, we transition back to your hair system. It grows up alongside your returning hair. As your hair gets longer, the system gradually loosens. At each maintenance visit during recovery we remove it, clean everything, and reattach it. Eventually you will not need it anymore. We guide every step.

Yes. Chemotherapy hair system and wig consultations qualify as medically necessary hair loss services under most HSA and FSA plans. Bring your HSA/FSA card to your appointment: no special forms are required at the time of service. If you need a superbill or supporting documentation for reimbursement, Emily can provide one. Cherry financing is also available for monthly payments if preferred.

California health insurance plans are required to cover hair prostheses (including human hair wigs) for cancer patients under certain diagnoses. Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis code. The billing term most insurers use is "cranial prosthesis." Bond Hair Bar provides itemized receipts and documentation worded for insurance reimbursement. Bring your insurance card to your consultation and we will walk you through what you need.

Human hair wigs look and move like real hair. They can be styled with heat, cut to fit your face, and breathe naturally, which matters for scalp sensitivity during treatment. Synthetic wigs are less expensive but trap heat, cannot be heat-styled, and are easier to identify as a wig at close range. Bond Hair Bar uses only 100% natural human hair for all clients.

The initial consultation is 30 minutes in a private room. That covers your full hair analysis, color match, measurements, and a complete plan. Your hair system and wig are then ordered and ready before your first treatment. Some clients schedule a second fitting appointment once the system arrives.