Dear Eric: I had cancer a few years ago and as a result I lost my hair. It grew back in patches, but I still appeared to be bald.

I purchased a wig that was my hair color and my hairstyle.

My dilemma is, I don't know how to reply to those who compliment my hair not knowing it is a wig. If I just say "thank you" I feel like I am lying. If I tell them it's a wig, they usually appear embarrassed and wish they hadn't said anything. Do you have any suggestions?

- Hair Dilemma

Dear Dilemma: I have a friend who sometimes wears wigs. On occasion, people with poor impulse control will ask her "Is that your real hair?" To which she responds, "Of course, it's my real hair. I bought it."

I empathize with your desire to not mislead, but you don't owe anyone any more commentary on your hairstyle than you feel comfortable with. So, in response to compliments, try to practice saying "thank you" or even "yes, I've always liked this style" without judging yourself. Remind yourself that if someone is going to feel deceived should they find out the hair they so enjoyed didn't come from your scalp, that's a reflection of their poor character, not yours.

Similarly, any embarrassment is theirs to negotiate, too. So, if you want to celebrate the journey you've been on by talking about the wig openly, do that with pride. You never know who you might encourage.