What To Look For When Buying Your First Wig

Have you been toying with the idea of buying a wig?

Whether it’s just for fashion or to hide away your hair problems―wigs are slowly taking over the hairstyling world.

So I think that you should definitely go take the plunge. You’ll soon realize that wearing a wig isn’t just a trendy fashion statement anymore. It’s also a smart way to save your natural tress from regular distress. I mean I love styling my hair as much as the next person.

Nonetheless, I do realize that all those hot styling sessions and color treatments can lead to damaged hair. That’s why I’ve started mixing things up by wearing a wig on occasional outings. Plus, wearing wigs opens up doors for more experimentation and lots of hassle-free hairstyling days.

So it’s like a win-win situation for you each time you step out of the house.

However, like most purchases, this one requires some research and attention to detail. Or else, you’ll be stuck with a piece of fluff that looks more like a horrible Halloween costume.

So what should you keep in mind when you buy a wig? The trick is to look at wig types, styles and hair color before you choose your wig. Then opt for something that’s compatible with your face and lifestyle.

What Should I Look for When Buying A Wig?

Buying a wig is no different than buying a dress. So you need to consider how it looks on you rather than picking it up based on a photograph/model. That’s because we all know how horrible things can be when we select a dress that is a size too big/small.

Am I right?

So here’s a checklist of sorts that you can follow:

Human Hair vs. Synthetic Hair

I won’t delve into the age-old debate of which type of wig is better. You can make that decision on your own. However, it’s important for you to understand the pros and cons that come with each wig.

So here’s an overview to help you decide:

Human Hair

Synthetic Wig

They look natural.

They can look a bit artificial.

They are highly durable.

Exposure to hot styling tools damage the synthetic strands easily.

They come in natural hair colors.

More variety in terms of color and hairstyles.

They can be styled in various different ways.

They remain in shape and shouldn’t be styled too often.

Can be pricey.

The budget-friendly option.

On the surface, you’d think that human hair wigs are probably the best option. Nevertheless, your choice might change when we come to the end of this checklist.

Style Goals

Do you want a pixie cut, flowing long tresses or medium-length librarian chic?

That’s probably the kind of question that you’d ask yourself before a haircut. Buying a wig is a similar process but you also add the hair color and texture to the mix. So you’ve got options like a baby pink pixie cut wig and a chestnut brown layered lob to choose from.

Basically, the options for wig styles are infinite. You should always consider the fashion trends and your personal style when you go wig shopping. That’s because these factors ensure that you don’t end up with something that looks ‘off’.

The Perfect Look

The ideal look is something that looks good on you.

That’s why after picking the type and style of your wig, you should think about how it’ll look on you. You should also add your daily routine into the equation. Knowing these things helps you figure out whether or not you’re ready for a high-maintenance wig.

Here are a few questions that seal the deal:

  • How often will you wear it?
  • Is it the right size?
  • Does the style fit your needs?
  • Does it look good on you?
  • Can you manage wearing it around for more than an hour?

If the answer to all these questions is a yes, then you should definitely make that purchase.

What Kind of Wig Looks Most Natural?

The obvious answer to this question is a wig that’s made from human hair. However, the way that your wig is styled and weaved plays a huge role in determining whether or not it’ll look natural. That’s why Hollywood stylists are keen to use wig types that don’t blow your cover.

Here are their top two recommendations:

Monofilament Wigs

Monofilament wigs are the perfect way to an illusion of real hair. These wigs are constructed with mesh-like material at the base. So that the hair from this wig looks like it’s growing out of your scalp.

Apart from this, if you like to style your wigs then this one’s a good option. That’s because the hair on this wig can be parted in different directions without revealing your real hairline.

Lace Front Wigs

Lace front wigs have a thin piece of transparent lace on the front of the wig. This placement allows it to mimic your natural hairline. You can place them on without any issue as long as you align it with your real hairline.

The only setback is that it’s super delicate. So you must be gentle when you are trying to adjust its position or styling it for an event.

What’s more? You’ve also got hand-tied wigs as your third option. These wigs are carefully crafted to be more flexible and feel more real in terms of movement. Like the monofilament wigs, they are easier to style.

How Do You Put on a Wig?

There are two ways to go about this―you either fiddle with it for hours and hours. Or you simply put it on and head out. My suggestion is to pick a happy medium.

It means to find a secure way to put on a wig and ensure that it doesn’t slide off.

Here is a step-by-step guide that I follow:

  1. Tie up your hair in a braid/bun or with bobby pins if your hair is short.
  2. Place a wig cap on your head and secure it with bobby pins.
  3. Make sure to tuck in any loose strands.
  4. Wear your wig by placing it in front of your hairline and then slowly moving it back.
  5. The front of your wig should align with your hairline.
  6. Make adjustments in case the wig hasn’t settled in properly.

The whole thing takes less than 30 minutes the first time around. Then once you’ve found the perfect placement strategy, you’ll be ready within ten minutes.

How Long Do Wigs Last?

The durability of your wig depends on its quality and type. If it’s a synthetic wig then it will probably survive 4-6 months of use. The lifespan extends when you purchase a human hair wig as those last longer than a year. Plus, if you’ve opted for virgin human hair wigs then they will last for approximately 3 years.

You can extend their longevity if you maintain them well.

How do you do that?

Here’s a hint:

  • Brush away the grit and dust from your wig on a regular basis.
  • Wash it with shampoo and conditioner occasionally.
  • Protect them from environmental elements like sunlight, dust, and rain.
  • Don’t over style them (e.g. curl or straighten)
  • Avoid coloring them too much.

That’s it! These simple rules will ensure that you get to flaunt your faux locks for a long time.

Wig Wisdom: Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve rounded up the top three questions every new wig wearer asks.

Let’s take a look:

Is It Better to Buy a Wig or Make One?

In the age of DIYs, you can always opt for the creative weave your own wig option. Wig bundles are easily available in the market and they’re cheaper than most wigs. The best part is that your hair bundles can be woven according to your needs.

The only issue is that you need skills to pull off the perfect look. One missed step can lead to a tangled mess of bundles. This is something that you can’t fix with a brush.

So if you ask me, I’d prefer to rely on a store-bought instead of a DY-replica.

How Much Does a Good Quality Wig Cost?

Most of you hesitate before buying a wig because it’s a major investment. There are stores that sell it at a whopping $3000. The trick is to always browse through your options and compare your options. If you’re lucky, you can buy a human hair wig in less than a $100 bucks.

Is that still out of your budget? Then get a high-quality synthetic wig that falls between $5 and $100. These budget-friendly wigs usually last more than a year if they are properly taken care of.

How do you Store a Wig?

Designating a special storage space for your wigs is a smart way to maintain its shape. When placed inside their assigned spot, they won’t get tangled up and stay intact.

So where should you store your wigs?

Here are a few options:

  • Keep them away from dust and sunlight by storing them inside a box.
  • Place them on a wig stand to ensure that they stay in shape.
  • Place your synthetic wigs back in their boxes.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to clean your wig before you store it!

It’s a Wrap

In the end, buy a wig that is stylish, that looks natural and that suits your lifestyle. If you skip this buying strategy then you might end up with something that looks more like a fashion faux. That’s something that you surely don’t want to face when you’re spending big bucks on the wig.

So simply stick to my guide and get ready to step up your hairstyling game up a notch!