Expert Advice for New Wig Wearers
Thinking about buying a human hair wig but not sure where to begin? Hoping to find one that feels just like the real thing and boosts your confidence?
You’re in the right place. Daniel Alain spoke with Erin, a hair loss consultant at Nedia Hair Loss Specialist and Spa, to answer all your questions. Erin’s journey with wigs started young—she lost her hair as a child and began wearing wigs at 10 years old. Now, she combines her personal experience and professional insights to help others find wigs that look and feel as natural as possible.
In this Q&A, Erin shares her best advice on selecting a human hair wig, tackling common challenges, and tips for finding the confidence to wear your new look with ease. If you're looking for straightforward guidance and reassurance from someone who truly understands, Erin shares everything you need to know about choosing the perfect wig.
Q&A: Wigs Basics
Q: How do you put on a wig?
Erin: Putting on a wig gets easier with practice! Start by prepping your natural hair if you have it. If you have long hair, braid it, or put it in a low bun to keep it flat against your head.
To place the wig, hold it by the front edges, tilt your head slightly forward, and position the front of the wig at your hairline. Then, gently pull the wig down over the back of your head and adjust it to make sure it’s secure. Some wigs have adjustable straps or clips to help you customize the fit, so use those to make the wig feel snug and comfortable.
Q: How do you wear a wig?
Erin: Wearing a wig comfortably is all about finding the right fit and style for you. Make sure your wig feels secure and natural - you shouldn’t feel like you’re constantly adjusting it. If you’re worried about slipping, consider using a wig grip, which is like a soft band that helps hold the wig in place.
For everyday wear, I also recommend keeping the style simple. In my experience, it’s easier to start by wearing your wig for shorter periods, gradually building up to longer wear. This way, you get used to the feeling, and you’ll gain confidence knowing it looks natural and stays put.
Q: How do you style a wig?
Erin: Styling a wig is very similar to styling your natural hair if it’s made from human hair. I always recommend using heat protectant if you’re styling with hot tools, as this keeps the hair looking healthy and shiny. You can curl, straighten, or add waves—just like you would with your own hair. For the best results, use low heat to avoid damaging the hair.
For synthetic wigs, it’s a little different. Most synthetic wigs come with a preset style that can’t be changed because the fibers don’t handle heat well. Using heat tools on a standard synthetic wig can actually damage it. So, if you’re considering a synthetic wig, it’s best to choose one in a style you know you’ll love right out of the box!
Some high-quality synthetic wigs are heat-resistant, but even with those, I recommend using only low heat sparingly. If you want a more flexible styling experience, a human hair wig might be a better choice.
Q: How to wash a wig?
Erin: Washing a wig is essential to keep it looking fresh. Start by gently detangling the wig with a detangling comb, starting from the ends and working your way up. Use a cleansing shampoo and lukewarm water. Submerge the wig in the water and gently swish it—avoid scrubbing or wringing it, as this can cause tangling.
Rinse thoroughly and follow with a moisturizing conditioner, especially for human hair wigs. Let the wig air dry on a wig stand to help it keep its shape. I find that washing every 7-10 wears is usually enough, but you might adjust based on your own usage.
Q: Where to buy wigs near me?
Erin: Finding a reliable wig store near you is ideal because you can see and feel the wigs in person, which is so helpful for finding the perfect match. Look for a shop that specializes in wigs and has knowledgeable consultants. You can also search for salons with wig specialists, like Nedia Hair Loss Specialist and Spa, where I work. We offer consultations to help you try on different styles, discuss your needs, and find the best fit.
Common Challenges of Wearing a Wig
Feeling Uncomfortable or Self-Conscious in a Wig
Erin: When I first started wearing wigs, I felt very self-conscious. It took time to adjust to seeing myself with different hair, especially since I lost my hair so young. A lot of my clients feel this way too.
One of the best ways to overcome this is to start wearing the wig in situations where you feel most comfortable - at home or with close friends and family. As you wear it more often, it becomes a part of you, and eventually, it feels completely natural. It can help to remind yourself why you chose the wig in the first place—to feel more like you.
Keeping the Wig Secure
Erin: Security is a big concern, especially if you’re active or worried about your wig shifting. To feel more secure, try using a wig grip—a soft band worn under the wig that helps it stay in place without damaging your scalp or hair. Some wigs come with clips or adjustable straps, which can also help.
For people with no hair at all, like me, wigs with silicone strips on the inside of the cap can be a game-changer. These silicone strips create a gentle suction that keeps the wig secure without needing clips or combs, which wouldn’t work for those of us without hair to anchor them.
In my experience, getting the right fit is key. A well-fitted wig that sits snugly is far less likely to shift, so I always recommend trying on a few options to find the best fit for you.
Getting Used to the Feel of the Wig
Erin: At first, wearing a wig can feel a bit heavy or warm, especially if you’re used to having very short or fine hair. Over time, though, it becomes much more comfortable. For new wig-wearers, I suggest starting with shorter periods of wear—maybe just a couple of hours at first, then gradually increasing your time each day.
Learning How to Care for the Wig
Erin: One of the biggest worries for new wig wearers is building the confidence to care for a wig, especially if they’ve invested a lot of money in it or aren’t used to looking after a full head of hair. It’s completely natural to feel a bit intimidated at first! But remember, wigs—especially high-quality ones—are built to be durable, so don’t be afraid to handle them.
With practice, caring for a wig becomes second nature. You can learn so much from online tutorials or YouTube videos on washing, styling, and maintaining wigs properly. Start small and practice basic care steps, and soon you’ll feel more comfortable. Building up this confidence not only keeps the wig looking great but also helps you feel in control of the process.
Managing the Transition to a New Look
Erin: For a lot of people, the hardest part is accepting a new look and making peace with it. I experienced this myself as a young girl, trying to come to terms with seeing a different hairstyle and adjusting to how it made me feel.
For my clients, I often suggest thinking of this as a new chapter—a chance to find a look that brings them joy and feels true to them. Take your time with the transition, experiment with styles, and be gentle with yourself. This is a big change, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions about it.
What Are My Next Steps for Choosing and Wearing a Wig?
Facing hair loss and deciding to wear a wig can feel overwhelming, especially if you're stepping into the world of wigs for the first time. You might be feeling unsure about finding the right wig, concerned about how natural it will look, or wondering if you can confidently care for it. These are all perfectly normal worries, and they’re part of what makes this decision such a significant one.
Erin’s advice provides you with a solid foundation to help you start this journey with more confidence.
With the right support and a little practice, wearing a wig can become an empowering part of your journey. Begin by scheduling a consultation or visiting a trusted wig specialist like Erin to explore styles and find your best fit.
