A: While traditional wigs and cranial prosthesis devices may seem like interchangeable terms for the same product, there are distinct and important differences between the two. Traditional wigs can be custom designed for the perfect fit and look. A cranial prosthesis is created specifically to address the different needs of patients living with hair loss due to a medical condition and/or genetic condition. The cap is constructed differently from a traditional wig, designed to perfectly fit the cranium and scalp rather than accommodate existing hair under a cap. In addition to looking and feeling like natural hair, a cranial prosthesis is also designed to be comfortable, cool, and lightweight for everyday wear. Wigs can be a fun way to switch up your hairstyle and try out a dramatic change without a dramatic commitment. However, for millions of people living with health conditions capable of affecting hair growth, a cranial prosthesis is so much more than a wig. Unlike traditional wigs, cranial prosthesis wigs are medical devices that can possibly restore the appearance of hair, aid in body temperature regulation and provide vital protection to the scalp. Cranial prosthesis hair replacement devices are such an essential part of a patient’s health journey.

A: A wig is covers your entire head with hair. A topper is partial coverage and is smaller than an actual wig. It covers the top of your head (with custom measurements) so your topper hair blends with your natural hair underneath. Toupees are the exact same but for men. Toppers should be about the same or a similar color close to your natural hair being that it is a partially covered piece. It  should be about the same length or just a few inches longer. A wig can be any color or length since it’s full head coverage and doesn’t need to blend with your natural hair.

A: This is literally  hair on a cap/hat of your choice. Running late? Hair appointment got canceled?, throw that capped Crown wig on, you you’re set! 

You can set aside pre-tax money to pay for qualified medical expenses with an HSA. Wigs are eligible for reimbursement with health savings accounts (HSA) with a Letter of Medical Necessity. But they are not eligible for reimbursement with dependent care flexible spending accounts.

Wigs can be worn to cover baldness and is a less expensive alternative to medical therapies for restoring your hair. For this reason, the IRS has deemed wigs used for this purpose as a medical expense which you can show on your tax returns. As such, medical wigs are eligible for reimbursement if you paid for it using your HSA.

Of course, your wig must have been purchased upon the advice of a medical professional in order to qualify. For example, your doctor may state that the wig is medically necessary for your mental health due to losing your hair from a disease.

A: Like an HSA, you can put money into an FSA to pay for certain out-of-pocket health care costs. And the good news is that you don’t pay taxes on the money you contribute. As a result, you’ll save an amount equal to the taxes you would have paid on the money you set aside.

Your employer can also make contributions to your FSA, but they are not ‘required’ to do so.

Yes, wigs are also covered for reimbursement using your FSA. But again, you must obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity (prescription) from your doctor.