Are you itching for a hair change? Ready to completely transform your look? Why not give wigs a try? Wigs are also a fantastic way to protect your beautiful natural hair – your curls and coils – from the sun, cold, wind, and all those other environmental stressors. So, if you're ready to take the plunge and explore the world of wigs, this article is here to answer all your burning questions. Ready? Let's dive in!
To change your hairstyle and look, opt for a radical change by adopting a wig. Easy to say, you might reply! But how do you choose one? Am I ready for such a big change? How do I maintain it? In this article, I will try to answer all the questions you might have if you want to wear a wig.
A Brief History of Wigs?
Wigs have existed for centuries, with their origins dating back to ancient Egypt. At the time, wigs were made from natural materials such as wool and animal or human hair, or synthetic fibers, and were used by both men and women to cover baldness or simply as an accessory. Later, in the 16th century in Europe, wigs became an important fashion item and were used to express a person's social rank or status.
Today, it's very easy to find wigs of all shapes and colors, short or long, straight or curly, and even hair extensions! A few decades ago, human hair was the only way to achieve natural results, but human hair wigs have become increasingly rare and expensive over the years. Today, synthetic wigs are more affordable and offer more options for those looking to change their look.
What Hair Types Can Wear a Wig?
There are no specific hair types suitable for wearing wigs; kinky, curly, straight, or wavy hair, everyone can wear a wig.
What Type of Wig Should You Choose?
First, know that there are several types of wigs. You can choose one based on your needs and, most importantly, your desires. The wig should be adapted to your natural hair and allow you to achieve a perfect result. You can opt for synthetic hairpieces or human hair wigs. The choice of wig will depend notably on the quality of your natural hair. It is best to choose a good quality wig that will last longer, look better, and retain its shape longer.
Quality Wig with Natural Hair
You can thus opt for a quality wig with natural hair. This wig will allow you to color it or use your heating tools, unlike most synthetic hair. There are also wigs with Brazilian, Peruvian, or Malaysian hair. Thicker and more resistant than Indian hair, the curls of these types of wigs last longer. It is also easier to color Brazilian, Peruvian, or Malaysian hair.
Synthetic Wig
Synthetic wigs are the ideal choice if you want to change your look quickly and easily. They require little maintenance and are available in a wide variety of styles and colors. The downside is that they don't last as long as natural hair, as they cannot be washed or styled with heat tools.
Synthetic wig or natural wig, there are sub-categories, it's easy to get lost...
Open Weave
An open weave wig is ideal if you want to change your hair color or add more volume. It offers ventilation and flexibility, allowing you to style your hair in different ways. This type of wig also gives you the option to wear a bandana or scarf with your wig.
Closed Weave
A closed weave wig is much more affordable than an open weave wig. The advantage of this type of wig is that it requires less maintenance and can last longer. It also offers some ventilation, allowing you to style your hair in different ways.
Frontal or Full Lace Wigs
If you want a wig that looks natural and can be styled in different ways, a frontal lace or full lace wig is the ideal option. These wigs are made from a special material that allows for ventilation and flexibility. They also offer a natural appearance, making them almost impossible to distinguish from your real hair.
Lace Wig
Finally, you can opt for a 'lace wig'. This is a so-called 'undetectable' wig where lace is present over the entire cap. It gives the illusion that the hair originates from the scalp. It allows you to wear all hairstyles, including high hairstyles like a ponytail or a high bun. You can find them in almost all Afro beauty supply stores and online. Some websites even offer custom-made lace wigs (adapted to head size, with a specific cut, etc.).
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The range of wigs is wide, from the most classic cuts to more extravagant and daring looks. Among the most popular wig styles are: the bob cut, the pixie cut, the asymmetrical cut, the layered look, curly or wavy hair. You can also choose a color that best suits your style.
Don't forget to choose a wig based on your hair shape and scalp. Make sure the wig fits your head perfectly, so you don't have to worry about it slipping or making you uncomfortable.
With or Without Glue?
When someone tells you they're going to glue a wig to your head, it can be scary! Fortunately, you can opt for a glueless wig. It then has combs integrated into the cap that attach to your hair. It is adjustable at the back with a hook system. This wig is perfect for those who want to remove it and change styles as they please. If you still want to take the plunge and use glue, prefer 'lace wigs'. The lace, located all around the periphery of the wig, is glued using special glue or adhesives, on the forehead and nape. However, glueless wigs remain the best option.
How to Put a Wig on Your Head?
If you choose a 'lace wig', a problem arises: how to attach it? Indeed, when you're a beginner, it's not obvious! Know that you can attach your wig in several ways: either with a specific glue, to be applied directly to the skin on the forehead, or with a specific tape. You can also use thread. Braid your hair into cornrows and sew the wig onto them to secure it.
If you're not a fan of sewing, there are clip-in wigs, to be clipped onto your hair, or headband wigs, very practical for those who don't have time to waste or are feeling acutely lazy.
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What Are the Advantages of Wigs?
The first and not least advantage of a wig: you can change hairstyles as often as you want! Let your imagination run wild and transform yourself with beautiful curls, an afro, or a wavy style worthy of a Hollywood star. You can also create pretty buns in a matter of minutes. All these styles require no manipulation of your own hair. Furthermore, as mentioned before, the wig protects your mane. Once placed on your head, your hair will undergo no manipulation until the next shampoo. They will therefore be less prone to breakage, which will promote hair growth. However, even if the wig is protective, it is still made of natural hair. So don't forget to protect them with a heat protectant cream before using any heating tools.
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How to Maintain My Wig?
It is essential to take care of your wig if you want it to last longer and maintain its original appearance. Here are some tips for wig maintenance:
use a shampoo specially designed for wigs, never brush wet hair, avoid using heat tools on the hairpiece.
It is essential to properly maintain your wig if you want it to last. Natural hair wigs should be washed with a mild shampoo, then conditioned and air-dried. It is important to avoid rubbing the hair while drying, as this can tangle and break it. Synthetic wigs should also be cleaned regularly with a mild shampoo and air-dried.
It is also important to use special products designed for synthetic hair, as ordinary hair products can damage the wig fibers. Invest in a wig stand to keep them in the best possible condition.
How Long Should You Keep a Wig on Your Head?
It is obvious that you cannot keep your wig on your head for too long, at the risk of damaging your hair. Do not stop your hair care routine; you must be able to maintain your hair regularly and keep it clean. That is why a wig that can be removed daily is the best choice, as this system allows your scalp to breathe and enables more regular washing.
What Are the Latest Wig Trends in Afro Hairstyles?
The quality and appearance of wigs have evolved significantly over the years. You can buy a wig close to your texture that is very easy to put on your head; for those who were hesitant to wear straight wigs, this is a small revolution.
The brand Hergivenhair has disrupted this market by offering this type of natural textured wigs, here are some examples below:
photo credit 1 : https://www.instagram.com/esthersobeng/
photo credit 2 : https://www.instagram.com/pureestrogen/
photo credit 3 : https://www.instagram.com/jenylucena/
This brand offers many types of hair, wigs
