Quick answer: A medical wig for chemotherapy or alopecia in Toronto typically costs about $250–$900 for synthetic and $2,000–$5,600+ for human hair at Wigs R Us Toronto. OHIP does not cover wigs, but many private and workplace benefit plans reimburse a "hair prosthesis" with a doctor's prescription, and if you're not reimbursed, a wig for hair loss caused by disease or medical treatment can be claimed as a medical expense on your Canadian tax return. The best time to get fitted is before treatment starts or within the first 2–3 weeks.
Wigs R Us Toronto, at 223 Davenport Rd in Yorkville, has fitted women going through cancer treatment and hair loss for over 20 years. This guide covers what to expect, what it costs, how to get reimbursed, and how to choose.
When should I get a wig if I'm starting chemotherapy?
Book your fitting before your first treatment, or within weeks 2–3. Hair loss from chemotherapy usually begins a few weeks after the first cycle, and many patients need their wig within days to a week after the second cycle.
- Before hair loss: your stylist can match your natural colour, density and part.
- Bring photos of your usual hairstyle if you've already started losing hair.
- Consider a short cut first. Wigs sit more securely on very short hair or a bare scalp.
- Urgent? Wigs R Us prioritizes same-day or next-day pickup for cancer patients, and in-stock wigs can go home the day of your consultation.
How much does a medical wig cost in Toronto?
| Wig type | Typical price (CAD) | Lifespan with care | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical-grade synthetic | $250–$900 | 3–5 months of daily wear | Short-term hair loss, low maintenance, lighter budget |
| Human hair | $2,000–$5,600+ | 1–3+ years | Long-term or permanent hair loss, most natural look, can be coloured and heat-styled |
| Custom wig from your own hair | Quoted on consultation | 1–3+ years | Patients who want to keep their own hair before treatment |
| Wash & style maintenance | Starting at $60 per visit | Every 4–6 weeks | Keeping any wig looking new |
Flexible payment plans are available for clients without insurance or for amounts insurance doesn't cover. See all prices in how much a wig costs in Toronto.
Does insurance cover wigs for cancer patients in Ontario?
OHIP does not cover wigs. However, many private and employer health plans cover a wig when it is billed as a "hair prosthesis" or "cranial prosthesis."
- Ask your oncologist or dermatologist for a prescription for a hair prosthesis stating the reason (for example, chemotherapy-induced alopecia).
- Call your benefits provider and ask about the annual or lifetime maximum for hair prostheses.
- Keep your itemized Wigs R Us receipt and submit it with the prescription.
Can I claim a wig on my taxes in Canada?
Yes. The Canada Revenue Agency lists wigs as an eligible medical expense when they are made for someone who has abnormal hair loss due to disease, medical treatment or an accident. You can claim the portion insurance didn't reimburse under the medical expense tax credit. Keep your receipt and prescription. (This isn't tax advice; check with your accountant.)
Synthetic or human hair: which is better during chemo?
- Choose synthetic if you expect your hair to grow back within a year, want a wig that holds its style after washing, or want to spend less.
- Choose human hair if hair loss is long-term (such as alopecia), you want to colour or heat-style it, or you want the most natural movement.
- Scalp comfort matters. A sensitive scalp during treatment benefits from a soft, breathable cap. Ask about lining options and wig caps, and see our guide on preventing wig itch.
What happens at a medical wig consultation?
- A private, unhurried conversation about your treatment timeline, lifestyle and budget.
- Head measurement for cap size.
- Try-on: you can try as many wigs as you like, with no pressure to buy.
- Custom cut and styling to frame your face.
- Care lesson: how to put on, wash and store your wig.
Consultations are available in-store in Toronto or virtually, and wigs ship Canada-wide. Book a free consultation.
Why Toronto patients choose Wigs R Us
- Over 20 years fitting women through cancer treatment and hair loss
- Owner Molanda contributes hair solutions expertise to the Look Good Feel Better program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- In-stock human hair and synthetic wigs for same-day take-home
- Receipts formatted for insurance reimbursement, plus payment plans
- Ongoing wash, style and maintenance in-salon
Browse our wigs for cancer patients, or learn more about alopecia and the differences between human and synthetic hair.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after chemo does hair fall out?
Usually within 2–4 weeks of the first treatment, depending on the drugs used. Ask your care team what to expect for your regimen.
Does OHIP pay for wigs?
No. OHIP does not cover wigs, but many private and workplace benefit plans reimburse a hair prosthesis with a doctor's prescription.
Can I claim a wig as a medical expense in Canada?
Yes. Wigs made for people with abnormal hair loss from disease, medical treatment or an accident are eligible under the CRA medical expense tax credit.
How much is a medical wig in Toronto?
At Wigs R Us Toronto, synthetic wigs typically range from $250 to $900 and human hair wigs from $2,000 to $5,600+.
Can I get a wig the same day?
Yes. In-stock wigs can be taken home the same day as your consultation, and cancer patients are prioritized for same-day or next-day pickup.
Where is Wigs R Us located?
223 Davenport Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 3R2. Phone (416) 922-0297. Open Tuesday–Friday 11am–5pm and Saturday 11am–4pm.
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