About Wigs

Who Needs to Learn about Wigs?

Anyone interested in a hairpiece, whether it is a full wig, an accessory such as a false ponytail, or a toupee should learn about wigs before making a purchase. Many people associate wigs with chemotherapy patients who lose hair through medical treatments, but many wig-wearers are people dissatisfied with their natural hair or are experiencing some degree of hair loss.

About Wigs: Different Construction Types

Not all wigs are the same: manufacturers use a variety of techniques to create different weights to meet wearers’ preferences. The cap (where hair is attached) may be sewn by hand or machine, or it may be tied by hand. Some designs are considered capless because they feature open spaces and additional ventilation, which may be more suitable for wearing a wig in a hot, humid climate. Other caps are partially translucent and reveal the scalp underneath to give a better appearance of natural hair; they are generally softer and more suitable for completely bald individuals or those with sensitive skin.

How wigs are attached to the head also varies. While full wigs can simply be set carefully onto the head, they have a tendency to slip and are easily dislocated. The most common method of attaching a wig is with double-sided tape formulated to stick carefully to the skin as well as the cap. Partial wigs may use clips that grip hair beneath the wig, even if it is very thin or short. Some wigs also feature adjustable straps for a customized fit.

Choosing a Wig

Wigs are expensive and often nonrefundable prosthetics. Individuals should learn everything they can about wigs including color choices, styles, and how to choose the proper size before making a purchase.

Color

Choose the best wig for you.

Wigs are available in every color of natural hair, even with highlights for a more stylish and natural appearance. Many individuals match the wig to their natural color, and manufacturers often provide color charts to assist in a close match. If you are considering a color radically different from your natural hair, it is best to consult with a professional stylist to be sure it will coordinate with you skin color.

Natural vs. Synthetic Hair

Older synthetic wigs were poorly made and obviously fake, but today they are actually an affordable and virtually indistinguishable alternative to natural hair. They are easier to care for but do not have as much flexibility as natural hair, which can still be dyed, permed, and restyled to match personal tastes. Both types of wigs require specialized shampoos and products to prevent excessive damage and prolong the life of the hairpiece. Blended wigs are available that combine natural and synthetic hair to take advantage of the benefits of both materials, offering the styling options of natural hair with the greater durability and affordability of synthetic wigs.

Wig manufacturers can also fashion a customized wig from a client’s own hair. Many chemotherapy patients consider this option prior to the onset of hair loss, though these are the most expensive types of wigs. Additional strands will need to be worked into the wig for fullness, and prospective buyers should consult individual manufacturers about wigs and their customization options.

Style

Wigs come in as many styles as you can find in any salon. When choosing a style, consider your face shape, the desired maintenance, and whether or not this is a style you want to wear continuously. When in doubt, it is best to start with a simple style; wigs can be professionally restyled and even cut if you wish to change the look. In fact, most wigs come with excessive hair and it is recommended that they be taken to a stylist to be shaped and customized to your individual features.

Size

Choosing the proper size is crucial for a natural appearance. Most heads are 21-23 inches in diameter, and the majority of wigs fit that average size. When measuring your wig size, include around the head, front-to-back, and ear-to-ear measurements that correspond to your natural hairline.

Cost

High-quality wigs cost several hundred dollars, while customized wigs may cost several thousand. Longer, more elaborately styled wigs are more expensive, while human hair wigs are also pricier than synthetic alternatives. If the hair loss was medically related, insurance companies may reimburse the costs, but be sure to investigate their policies about wigs before your purchase.

Wig Care and Maintenance

Wigs must be cared for to maintain a stylish appearance. Because the hair in wigs – whether it is synthetic or artificial – has been heavily processed, specialized shampoos and conditioners are recommended. Other hair products such as sprays and gels should also be wig-friendly formulas. Most wigs must be cleaned every 7-14 days, and when they are not worn they should be stored on a mannequin or wig stand to maintain the proper shape. Avoid using heating tools ( hair dryers, hot curlers, etc.) on wigs that may damage the strands or the cap.

Whether you are learning about wigs because of a medical condition or just investigating different styles, it is wise to learn about color, style, and composition options before making such a significant purchase. With the wide variety of wigs available, anyone can find the perfect hairpiece to suit their personality with just a little background information.