Hair wigs are an essential part of the fashion industry, a staple in red carpet events, and a beloved way to quickly change up your look without damaging your own hair. But beyond the red carpet, the trend has caught on with a whole new set of beauty enthusiasts, who are putting their trust in stylists to flawlessly blend wig units into a seamless look that feels as natural as it looks.
Choosing the right wig can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the different types and brands available on the market. But understanding the differences between human hair wigs and synthetic wigs will help you choose the right option for your needs.
The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a wig is the construction of the wig. Wigs can come in three main constructions: Full-Cap, Open-Cap, or Partial Coverage. Generally, full-cap wigs have all of the hair sewn into a cap to provide the most coverage, while open-cap and partial-cap wigs only allow air circulation between the lace and the scalp. If you’re looking for a lightweight, natural-looking wig that will hold its shape well in warmer weather, opt for an open-cap wig.
While a majority of human hair wigs are hand-tied, there are a few machine-wefted models that also exist. Usually, hand-tied wigs are a higher quality option than their machine-wefted counterparts. They tend to have a smoother, more natural texture than their counterparts and should be able to be parted and styled without having the wig fall flat or tangling.
To make sure your wig stays in good condition, Kimble recommends washing it with a nourishing shampoo and conditioner that will hydrate and protect the fibers of the wig. She says to squeeze or wring the hair out as you cleanse it, then gently brush and comb. After washing, she recommends allowing it to air dry overnight to avoid any tangles.
When it comes to color, Scott recommends selecting a wig that will complement your natural hair color. Some brands will sell wigs in a variety of colors, so take the time to find one that works best for you.
Another key factor to consider when choosing a wig is the material that it’s made from. While synthetic wigs are often more affordable than their human-hair counterparts, they can be hard on your hair and may not have the same texture or movement as real hair.
The only advantage to synthetic wigs is that they don’t require as much maintenance, so they’re ideal for busy bees who don’t have the time to wash their hair every day. However, if you’re going to be wearing your wig for extended periods of time, it’s better to invest in a wig that will last longer.
Keeping a wig looking and feeling its best is no easy feat, but it can be done with a little know-how and the right tools. To keep your wig hydrated, clean, and in tip-top shape, use a wig care product that contains a blend of natural oils to nourish the strands.