The “C” word. It is frightening enough to knock the bravest to their knees. Upon first hearing the word “cancer,” we think of death, and dying an ugly death. Modern medicine, inner strength, absolute determination and support from family and friends help us to grow strong and give us the power to beat cancer. So does a good hair day, and to be realistic, during treatment, good hair days are numbered.

I have helped usher many clients through this traumatic period. Hair loss is an "I am sick" label for the world to see. It's tough to fight the battle against cancer. It's even more difficult when you want to hide and can't look at yourself in the mirror. This is never an easy journey, but I can share tips I have learned from my most incredible clients to help make treatment and recovery as graceful as possible.

After you have been diagnosed and treatment has been prescribed, find out how much hair you might lose. Chemotherapy doesn't always mean baldness. Your doctor might be able to tell you how much hair you will lose, but be prepared. Everyone reacts differently to treatment. If your doctor thinks your hair might stay on your head, treat it with tender loving care. It's time to give your hair a break. Just be happy it's on your head. Think about great-looking short cuts. There is nothing more depressing than watching your hair fall to the floor with every brushing. A short hair cut is a great way to avoid this heartbreak and disguise your thinning hair.

I know you are thinking about your hair color. You must talk to your doctor. Most likely the doctor will not permit coloring during, and for a time, following, treatment. If your hair loss is more than 50%, it will be noticeable. Think about buying a wig. I would suggest looking for a wig before you start your treatment. This will allow you to easily match your hair color and texture.

TIP - Buy the thinnest wig you can find. At every oncologist office there is always a nurse who will tell you where the best wig store is for cancer patients. Your hairdresser should also be able to help you pick the hair piece that looks right for you. Thick wigs look fake. The correct texture is more important than if the hair is synthetic or natural. You can pick a hair color that is a bit brighter and richer than your natural color. Your skin color often becomes paler during treatment. The brighter hair color will make your complexion look more vital.

About six weeks after treatment ends, your hair will start to grow back. It will grow about ¼ inch a month. Most likely your hair will grow in a curlier texture than it was before treatment. This curly hair can last about two years before your normal texture returns. It is time for you to go to your hair salon when your hair is about one to two inches long. As your hair grows, have mini trims to give your hair a shape and make it look like a hair style. Most likely you will have fun with your new short hair and, "praise the lord," it will eliminate the "I am sick" look. Don't be surprised when you start receiving compliments on your new hair cut.

After chemo, hair often comes back a bit dull and gray. As soon as the doctor gives you the go ahead, make an appointment for your hair color. Your old color formula is probably not the right color for your new hair. Your hair is probably a shade darker, grayer, curlier, and definitely shorter. This is the time for a reevaluation of your hair color. Your hair colorist can help lead you in the right color direction. Highlights are not usually the answer at this time. Highlights on short hair tend to look spotty. An over all color is usually the best option for post treatment hair. It’s gentle on your hair and will instantly brighten your hair color.

Finally, your hair has started to grow back. You have a great cut and you are coloring it again. You are feeling like yourself. If your hair is a bit too short or dark, it really doesn't matter. You can adjust the cut and color over time. You are on the road to your second chance at life. You will never take tomorrow for granted again. You know that it is a treasured gift.

Ivis was my first makeover and a cancer survivor of 14 years. At this point, her hair has almost returned to its normal texture. I think living well and looking beautiful is the best revenge. Lena of Louis Licari New York, gave her long layers for a full body cut with shape and definition. She reshaped a side swept bang to soften Ivis's features. I brightened Ivis's brown hair and complexion with caramel highlights. The tip is to maintain an overall brown look with highlights so her hair brightens her face and provides contrast with her olive skin tone.

Vanessa had long wavy dark hair that was overwhelming. Lena cut 12 inches into Vanessa’s naturally wavy hair so she can wear it natural or straight. I softened Vanessa’s dark brown hair to a dark auburn with painted on highlights of a brighter red. This made her hair look less heavy and dense.

By the way, I was in Los Angeles coloring hair on Saturday thinking about writing this blog post. My one o'clock appointment was Michelle Carr, a great looking woman with short hair and a smile that filled the room. I was running a bit late, but when I finally got to her, I didn't want to leave her. She was on the far side of cancer treatment and ready to color her hair. She immediately pulled out a bag of wigs and showed me all her different looks. There were wigs that were brown, auburn, highlighted, and even blond.

She found a way to have fun in the most frightening time of her life. It reminded me of the saying life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react. I will never forget her or her excitement about life and her new hair color. Her attitude was contagious and it filled the salon. Good spirits, an optimistic attitude, and the ability to do whatever it takes helped Michelle through this horrific disease.

Taking control of your hair loss and regrowth is empowering. Don't allow yourself to be frozen by fear. Taking action is the key to power, strength, and wellness.

This blog is dedicated to my mother, Grace Licari, a cancer survivor for 25 years.

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!