Choosing a wig can be a big event. You’re not just committing to a purchase, you’re committing to a hairstyle that’s going to be you for months or years. Fortunately, there are a myriad of options available in all manners of hair types, cap constructions, colors, and styles. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your wig:
Wig-A-Do
- What is your budget?
When purchasing a wig, it’s important to determine your budget in advance, since wigs can cost anywhere from hundreds of dollars to thousands. Generally, the higher your budget, the more natural will be the wig you can afford. Wigs made from virgin European hair, for instance, are rare and very expensive; remy human hair wigs are less expensive, heat-friendly synthetic wigs are are lower still, and regular synthetic wigs are most the most cost-effective of them all.
Beware, however, of choosing a wig based solely upon price. The wig industry is one where it is easy to pass inferior materials or construction off as high-quality, since few consumers know much about prosthetic hair. It always pays to visit a reputable wig boutique with a long history of serving its customers well.
- How long do you need your wig to last?
Chemotherapy patients usually only need their wig to last for a matter of months before their own hair begins to grow back. Such a short time often doesn’t justify spending top-dollar on a premium human-hair wig. However, people who are or wish to be long-term wig users often find it’s worth the extra money for a wig that will last longer and look better through the years.
- How much time do you have to care for your hair?
Some wigs require more care than others. Human hair, for example, will need styling daily, while synthetic wigs can be worn straight out of the box. Lace front wigs often need to be carefully applied using special adhesives while stretch caps can simply be pulled over the head. Let your schedule help you choose the best hairpiece for you.
- How frequently do you like to change your hairstyle?
Human hair wigs can be styled, cut, and colored just like real hair, while heat-friendly wigs can only be styled and regular synthetic wigs should not be restyled at all. If you take great joy in changing your hairstyle frequently, a human hair wig may be right for you. If, on the other hand, you’ve worn the same hairstyle for the last three years, a synthetic wig may be perfect.
- How much does your favorite style reveal your scalp or hairline?
How you like to wear your hair should help inform your purchase as well. If you love to pull your hair back, perform elaborate parts, braids, or cornrows or otherwise expose your scalp or hairline, you may enjoy a lace front or 100% hand-tied wig. If you wear bangs and often let your hair hang loose, a fully or partially machine-made wig might give you all the coverage you need.
- What is your natural hair color?
While choosing a wig is also a great time to experiment with different hair colors, most beauty experts recommend that you choose a color that’s within 2 shades of your natural color. This means that if you’re naturally blond, you may be able to try a light brown, red, or a blonde and mocha ombre, but will probably not want to go jet back, and vice versa.
- What is your natural skin color and tone?
Most skin colors have a range of hair colors that naturally pair with them. For example, very fair skin usually corresponds with lighter hair, while dark skin looks most natural against darker hair.
Undertones are also important when choosing a color. If your skin has warm (golden) undertones, you will want a warm hair color to go with it. If your skin is cool (blue or pink) however, a warm undertone in your hair can make you look washed out. Always try to pair like shades and tones together.
- What is your face shape?
Different face shapes look best in different hair styles. When choosing a wig, this means choosing a style that accentuates your best features and balances out those that are out of proportion, such as a long or broad face or a strong chin.
- How do you currently wear your hair?
Buying a wig is a great time to experiment with new hair styles. But you may find that starting out with a hairstyle similar to your old one is an easier way to transition – both for you and for those around you.
- How does your lifestyle affect your hair?
Are you a swimmer? A busy mom? A career woman? Your lifestyle can drastically affect how you wear your hair and how much time you can spend getting it that way. Before you purchase a wig, stop to think how you will fit your wig into your daily life. When you buy a wig that’s a perfect fit for you, you’ll not only look good, but feel relaxed and confident as well!
