Purchasing a wig for medical or fashion reasons can be challenging, especially if you don't know exactly where to start. Learn about wigs with some of our most frequently asked questions.
Human hair or synthetic hair?
There are advantages to both and many people choose to have human hair and synthetic hair wigs on hand for different circumstances. Human hair wigs offer the most natural look and feel as well as styling versatility. While typically more expensive, with proper care, human hair can last over a year. Synthetic hair tends to be a more affordable choice and offers great ease of wear - wigs can often be worn right out of the box with little or no styling.
What to know about heat friendly synthetic fiber?
If you enjoy styling versatility, human hair or heat friendly synthetic hair is the way to go. While human hair offers the most natural look and feel plus styling versatility, heat friendly synthetic hair also allows heat styling (optimal temperature of 120-135 degrees Celsius - never go above 175 degrees Celsius). Proper care is vital to keeping heat friendly hair looking its best. A wide tooth comb should be used (not a brush) and it is best to avoid combing while wet. Use of product specially designed for synthetic hair, such as our synthetic hair care range can also help maintain the quality and condition of the hair. We also recommend a detangling spray! With proper care, heat friendly synthetic hair should last up to a few months.
What are the different types of wig caps?
Constant innovation in technology allows for increasingly wearable and comfortable wigs. The base of any wig is referred to as a cap. The hair is attached to the wig cap using a variety of techniques to achieve different looks. On most wigs, hair is attached in 'wefts'. These are strips of hair doubled over and sewn closely together in long strands. Others are hand tied for the most natural movement. If you like to wear your hair swept away from your face, lace front wigs are the best option. If you like parting versatility, we recommend full monofilament wigs. The 100% hand tied and double monofilament wigs are known for being gentle on sensitive scalps.
How do I know my wig size?
Many wigs come in petite, average and large sizes. Average size wigs however, tend to fit about 95% of people. If you are unsure of how to measure your head size, contact us and we can guide you through the process.
How do I choose a colour?
We aim to make purchasing the right colour online just as easy as in our salon (or easier)! Once you have found a style you like, it is time to select a colour option. If you are new to wigs, consider staying close to your natural colour (you can always have fun experimenting with colour later). At Easi Wigs, we capture our colour photo images in an extremely controlled studio environment making them the most consistently accurate available. You can also order colour rings or make use of our expert colour consultation services by submitting a photo or a hair swatch.
Are colour swatches accurate?
Hair colour images are presented to give you a visual representation of colour options for each item. However it must be noted that on screen representations do not necessarily precisely represent actual colours due to variable computer monitor calibrations. Additionally, the computer or device you use may have an impact on how the colours appear. For example, Apple computer devices tend to make colours appear slightly warmer.
How do I put on a wig?
After removing your wig from the box, take off the protective hairnet (if the style has one) and give it a good shake. If it is a ready-to-wear synthetic hair wig, you are ready to go! If it requires customisation (such as trimming a lace front), we recommend you consult a wig specialist or visit our salon.
If you have a lot of your own hair, the first step is to gather it back and up. One great trick is to separate the hair into two sections on each side of your head. Twist the hair as you pull it back and around the head so that it will eventually lay flat. This tactic can help avoid a pony tail bulge. You may choose to use pins, braids, wig caps (recommended) or a great product called Sure Grip to secure your hair. A wig cap can be helpful even without hair to keep wigs secure and in place.
Hold your wig at the sides (ear tabs) and starting at the front, place it at your natural hairline. Slide it on toward the nape of your neck and shift as needed using the ear tabs to help center your wig. Adjustable straps at the nape may help to achieve a more secure fit. If handling a lace front wig, take care not to tug on the lace as it can be a bit delicate.
Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect right away, start styling!
Any tips on making wigs appear more natural?
Human hair wigs tend to offer the most natural look, but today synthetic wigs can also look very natural as well thanks to great innovations in wig technology. Styles with lace front and monofilament features or those that are 100% hand tied will also appear very natural. When it comes to choosing a style, consider styles that will be most flattering given your face shape. As for colour, it is often wise to stick close to your own natural hair colour.
Which wigs are better for sensitive scalps?
100% hand tied or double monofilament wigs tend to be the most gentle on sensitive scalps. Some people use wig caps to protect the scalp. In our wig accessories, the Sure Grip product is a hypoallergenic comfort liner designed to add cushion - particularly at pressure points to improve both fit and comfort.
What if my head sweats a lots?
Not to worry! We offer a great solution with No Sweat Liners by HEADLINE IT!
How do I care for my wig?
Wigs come with instructions from the manufacturer that should be followed. When not in use, store your wig on a mannequin or wig stand to maintain its shape and wash only when necessary - roughly once every 7 days of wear but more often if your lifestyle or environment calls for it.
Should I own more than one wig?
Yes! First the practical reasons. Wigs can last longer if not worn daily. You can be washing and air drying one while wearing the other. If you wear human hair or heat friendly synthetic hair, you can keep one styled straight and the other curly to reduce stress.
Can I curl or straighten my wig?
Synthetic hair wigs can be irreparably damaged if you try to curl or straighten the hair with heat tools. Consider human hair wigs for the ultimate styling versatility as you can curl or straighten them as you would your own hair.
Can I colour my wig?
Most wigs offer a variety of colours to choose from, lessening the need to colour them. While synthetic hair cannot be dyed, human hair wigs can. But it is a tricky process that should be handled by a hair professional only. We recommend only going darker, not lighter as there is a lot of chemical processing involved in the making of a wig and any additional manipulation can cause damage.
What is the best way to store a wig?
A wig stand or mannequin head is ideal. It will help keep the hair from becoming tangled and will help to maintain the shape. Also, see if you can find a cool, dry spot to keep wigs in their best condition.
Can I swim or shower with my wig?
We do not recommend this. It can put too much stress on the hair and create unmanageable tangles. Also, pool chemicals and salt can damage and dry out the hair as well as affecting the color.
What are the different types of wig attachments?
There are a lot of different kinds of wigs and there are many different methods of attachment to help secure the hair in place such as tapes, pins, clips, wraps and combs. The choice is ultimately up to the individual and depends on each persons situation and preference.
What are some ways to tackle thinning hair?
If you are thinning on top, at the crown or at the hairline, you may choose to wear a hair piece or topper / top piece in lieu of a full wig. Many wigs blend in so naturally with your own hair, even experts are hard pressed to see them when in place. They are also a great option if you want to conceal grey or new hair growth between colour touch ups.
Written by Lindani Mirirai Khoza