Things to Know Before Buying a Wig for Vanity
Wigs are not only for people who have hair loss or medical conditions. Many people choose to wear wigs for vanity, meaning they want to enhance their appearance, change their style, or experiment with different colors and textures. Wearing a wig can be a fun and creative way to express yourself and boost your confidence. However, before you buy a wig for vanity, there are some things you should know to make the best choice and get the most out of your wig.
1. Choose the right wig type
There are two main types of wigs: synthetic and human hair. Synthetic wigs are made from artificial fibers that mimic the look and feel of natural hair. Human hair wigs are made from 100% human hair and can be styled and colored like your own hair. Each type has its pros and cons, so you should consider your budget, lifestyle, and preferences when choosing a wig type.
Synthetic wigs are usually cheaper, easier to maintain, and more durable than human hair wigs. They also come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures that can suit any look you want. However, synthetic wigs cannot be exposed to heat sources such as curling irons, blow dryers, or hot water, as they can damage the fibers and ruin the wig. Synthetic wigs also tend to have a shorter lifespan than human hair wigs, lasting from 4 to 6 months with proper care.
Human hair wigs are more expensive, but they offer more versatility and realism than synthetic wigs. They can be cut, colored, curled, straightened, and styled however you like. They also have a more natural movement and shine than synthetic wigs. However, human hair wigs require more care and maintenance than synthetic wigs. They need to be washed, conditioned, and styled regularly to keep them in good shape. Human hair wigs also tend to lose their color and quality over time, lasting from 6 months to a year with proper care.
2. Choose the right wig cap
The wig cap is the base of the wig that holds the hair and attaches to your head. There are different types of wig caps that offer different levels of comfort, security, and naturalness. Some of the most common types of wig caps are:
- Classic or standard caps: These are the most basic and affordable type of wig caps. They have rows of hair sewn onto a breathable fabric that covers the entire head. They are easy to wear and adjust, but they may not look very natural at the hairline or parting.
- Lace front caps: These are one of the most popular and realistic type of wig caps. They have a thin strip of lace along the front edge of the cap that creates a natural-looking hairline. The lace can be trimmed and glued or taped to your forehead for a secure fit. Lace front caps can have different types of bases on the rest of the cap, such as classic, monofilament, or hand-tied.
- Monofilament caps: These are one of the most comfortable and natural-looking type of wig caps. They have a mesh material on the top or part of the cap that allows the hair to be individually knotted onto it. This creates the illusion of hair growing from your scalp and allows you to change the direction and style of the parting.
- Hand-tied caps: These are one of the most expensive and luxurious type of wig caps. They have the entire cap made from a soft fabric that has the hair hand-knotted onto it. This creates a very natural movement and appearance of the hair and provides more comfort and breathability than other types of caps.
3. Choose the right wig size
The size of your wig is very important for your comfort and security. A wig that is too big or too small can cause headaches, irritation, slippage, or damage to your natural hair. To find your correct wig size, you need to measure your head circumference at different points: around your forehead, above your ears, behind your ears, at your nape, and across your crown. You can use a flexible tape measure or a string to do this.
Once you have your measurements, you can compare them with the standard wig sizes: petite (21 inches or less), average (21-22 inches), large (22-23 inches), or custom (any size). Most people fall into the average category, but you may need a different size depending on your head shape and preference. You can also adjust your wig size using straps or clips inside the cap.
4. Choose the right wig color
The color of your wig is another factor that can affect how natural and flattering it looks on you. You can choose a color that matches your natural hair color or go for something completely different for a dramatic change. However, there are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a wig color:
- Consider your skin tone and eye color: You want to choose a color that complements your complexion and enhances your features. Generally, warm skin tones look better with warm colors such as golden, honey, or copper, while cool skin tones look better with cool colors such as ash, platinum, or chocolate. You can also use your eye color as a guide to find a color that makes them pop.
- Consider your age and style: You want to choose a color that suits your personality and lifestyle. You can go for a classic and timeless color that never goes out of style, such as black, brown, or blonde, or you can experiment with trendy and fun colors such as red, pink, or purple. However, you should also consider your age and how the color will affect your appearance. For example, if you are older, you may want to avoid very dark or very light colors that can make you look harsh or washed out.
- Consider the wig type and quality: You want to choose a color that matches the type and quality of your wig. Synthetic wigs tend to have more vibrant and uniform colors than human hair wigs, which can have more subtle and natural variations. However, synthetic wigs cannot be dyed or bleached, while human hair wigs can be customized to your desired shade. You should also check the quality of the wig color and how it reacts to different lighting conditions. Some cheap or low-quality wigs may have unnatural or uneven colors that can look fake or unflattering.
5. Choose the right wig style
The style of your wig is the final touch that can make or break your look. You can choose a style that matches your face shape, personality, and mood. You can also change your style depending on the occasion or season. However, you should also consider the type and cap of your wig when choosing a style.
Synthetic wigs usually come pre-styled and hold their shape well, but they cannot be altered much without damaging the fibers. Human hair wigs can be styled like your own hair using heat tools and products, but they may lose their shape over time and require more maintenance. Lace front caps can give you more versatility in styling the front of your hair, such as pulling it back or tucking it behind your ears. Monofilament caps can give you more flexibility in changing the parting of your hair, such as side part or middle part. Hand-tied caps can give you more freedom in moving and styling your hair in any direction.