If you've lost some—or all—of your hair, you may be considering a wig while you implement growth strategies to help your strands return faster. Or, hey, maybe you just want to test out a new fall hair color without dyeing your hair, or you're trying out an altar ego. Either way, there are thousands of options out there.
The tricky part? Wigs range wildly in both quality and price, rendering the search rather daunting for the uninitiated. Add words like monofilament, lace front, glue, and hand-tied to the mix, and someone who doesn't know much about wigs may just, well, wig out.
To demystify the process and help you find the most natural-looking wig, we asked stylists to break it all down for us. Here's what they said.
For the most natural-looking wig, opt for one made of human hair.
There are two types of wigs: human hair and synthetic. As you might guess, human hair provides the most natural look, says Fae Norris, a hairstylist at Rock Paper Salon. Because it's real, it falls and swings the same way natural hair does. Plus, it can be styled—blow dried, curled, or ironed—like business as usual.
Still, there are different types of human hair. European, which is a little finer, is the most sought-after and most expensive, says Norris. Indian, which is softer and has more texture, is also very popular, but a little less expensive. And Chinese hair, which tends to be thick and straight, is the least expensive and most prevalent, says Norris.
For a high-quality human hair wig, expect to pay about $200 to $500 (or more), says Norris. If that's beyond your price point, don't stress: Wigs have come a long way, and you can find a nice synthetic option for closer to $100.
It should also be full lace or lace front.
Both full lace and lace front wings have a very natural appearance, says Cynthia Lumzy, a wig colorist and Design.ME hair ambassador. Though lace-front is generally a bit more affordable than a full lace wig, it can be less breathable and even a bit itchy, says Norris. For the most flexibility—the ability to part the wig in multiple ways and wear updos—full lace is the best option, she says.
And, have a hand-tied monofilament cap.
Though more expensive due to the intricate manufacturing process, 100 percent hand-tied caps have the softest, lightest, most natural-looking construction, says Norris. This is because every single strand of hair is individually placed inside the lace cap by hand. The result is a wig that can be easily parted and mimics the look of your natural scalp.
Yes, you can buy them online, but you're better off going to a store.
There are a multitude of online wig retailers, says Lumzy. RPGShow, Mayvenn, and Hair Stop & Shop are just a few examples.
But when it comes to finding the most natural-looking wig, there's nothing quite like trying them on in person, says Norris. At wig shops, they'll properly measure your head, plus you have the luxury of sampling many options before making your selection.
Once you've found your wig, bring it to a pro.
After splurging on the most natural-looking wig, you may wonder why you'd have to spend more to get it styled. Norris recommends bringing your wig to a professional stylist to ensure it fits the shape of your face. Most wigs have an excess of hair and, much like natural hair, needs to be cut and layered properly.
To maintain it, wash the wig gently.
The typical lifespan of a human hair wig can be years if taken care of correctly—about five times longer than artificial hair, says Norris. But proper care is vital to prolong a wig's usable life. Wash your wig every six to eight wears using a gentle sulfate-free shampoo, says Norris.
Of course, you'll want to store it properly, too.
Whether synthetic or human hair, one of the best ways to increase a wig's lifespan is to brush it and then put it on a wig stand when not in use, says Norris.
And, just for fun...
To watch Oprah (the wig queen) and Gayle discuss the meaning of "wig snatched" and other slang terms, check out the video here:
Brigitt Earley
Contributing Writer
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
