If you have suffered from thinning hair or hair loss, and want to try wearing a wig to cover up your existing hair – or you just want to try a new look for a while without cutting your hair or getting longer-lasting hair extensions, then a wig is a good option.
There are two main types of wigs – synthetic wigs and human hair wigs. There are benefits and downsides to each of these choices, and the more you know the better informed a decision you will be able to make. Let’s deep dive into the topic to understand better.
Two Main Types of Human Hair Wigs
1.Human Hair Wigs
Wearing a human hair wig is a lot like wearing your own hair. It is something that looks incredibly realistic and lifelike, and it also has the added benefit of being incredibly durable, however, it is a lot heavier than synthetic hair. Some of the very best wigs made from human hair can be styled, permed and colored just like real hair.
However, less expensive ones often cannot since the hair has already been treated before the wig was made. The carbonized coloring method that the human hair wig makers use is one that is not generally compatible with conventional hair dyes, and if you try to color that kind of wig then it is likely that the hair strands will be irreparably damaged.
If you take good care of a wig made from human hair, it could last for as long as five years. You can buy stock human hair wigs. These are made to an average size, and can then be adjusted by using straps that are located at the nape of the neck. Take note that not all wigs have straps, however. Some may need to be adjusted professionally.
2.Synthetic Wigs
Synthetic wigs come in a few different designs. Monofilament wigs are some of the most popular synthetic products on the market today. These wigs look incredibly realistic, and they are also very comfortable to wear, and lighter than human hair wigs. This makes them a good choice for people who have sensitive skin on their scalp.
The breathable gauze that makes up the wig base allows the scalp to breathe, and because the mesh is made of nylon it is almost indistinguishable from the color of your scalp, so there is nothing to give away – to the casual observer – that you are wearing a wig.
Because of this light weight and the comfortable nature of the product most first-time wig wearers now opt for monofilament wigs. Within the category ‘monofilament wigs’, there are a few different forms of construction, including wefted weaves which have a fuller look and offer more volume, making it even harder to tell that a wig is being worn.
Monofilament cap wigs are natural looking and are very versatile. They tend to be more popular for long term wear than wefted caps. However, they are also more expensive.
Caring for Your Wig
Whether you opt for human hair wigs or a synthetic wigs, you will need to care for it properly. Synthetic wigs do not last as long as human hair wigs, but some people find that their care instructions are easier. You will need to take care to clean the wig on a regular basis, and store it properly. The best way to store a wig is on a proper wig stand. You can buy styling heads that can be used to keep wigs on. These will allow the wig to breathe so that odors do not build up on it. Store the wig away from any windows, and cover it with a scarf so that it does not get dusty. Do not keep the wig in a plastic bag.
You should wash your wig about as often as you would wash your normal hair. Some people say that you can go for as long as two weeks between washes, but if you are wearing the wig for most of the day then you should wash it far more often than that. Note, however, that it will take a while to wash the wig. Bank on being unable to use a synthetic wig for 24 hours while it is washed and dried. Human hair wigs will take even longer to clean. This could be a significant downside to human hair wigs, in particular, and is a good reason for you to consider buying more than just one.
You should use special wig shampoos to clean your hairpiece. Even human hair wigs should be cleaned with a proper wig shampoo, rather than a normal shampoo. While the wig is being made, it is subjected to a lot of stress and treated with many chemicals. This means that it needs the conditioning products that are found in wig shampoos. If you use normal shampoo then you could significantly shorten the life of your product.
Once you have washed the wig, lay it out on an absorbent towel and let it dry out naturally. Never blow dry a wig, or try to rub it or wring it out. This is likely to make the wig shed hair. When it is completely dry, you can brush it. While the hair is wet, you should leave it alone or at the very most, gently finger-style it. Never ever use heat on a synthetic wig because this will damage the fibers.
Conclusion
As you can see, the choice of wig depends on your budget – whether you want a light wig or one that is a bit more durable – and how much time you are willing to put into caring for the product.