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MYTHS ABOUT WIGS & HAIRPIECES
Many misconceptions about wigs persist. Here are a few of the most common myths.
MYTH #1: Wigs are hot, itchy and uncomfortable.Not true. Innovations in wig design have resulted in wigs that are lighter and more comfortable than ever before - with many of today's wigs weighing 2 oz. or less. Thinner wefts (fabric to which fibers are sewn) and lighter cap construction allows for greater air circulation. New lightweight wig fiber like WhisperLite® is softer and finer, resulting in an even lighter look and feel. Other wig features provide additional comfort, like velvet bands for added softness. Many wigs are also available in sizes, which ensures that the wig will remain comfortably and securely in place.MYTH #2: Human hair wigs are better because they're more natural.One of the biggest misconceptions about wigs is that 100% human hair wigs will be more natural looking than synthetic wigs. Many women fear that "synthetic" wigs will look synthetic. This is not true! Each type of wig has its own unique benefits.Synthetic wigs come prestyled, and are the easiest to care for. For this reason, synthetic styles are most often recommended by stylists to clients undergoing treatment. Synthetic wigs also offer a variety of comfort features, including non-slip linings, lightweight fiber and multiple sizes for a secure fit.Human hair wigs, while more versatile, are not prestyled and therefore require more work. Unlike synthetic styles, these wigs can be heat-styled. They tend to weigh a bit more, and often require some trimming and customization.MYTH #3: Wigs can cause damage to the scalp and slow natural hair growth.Not true. Wearing a wig will not harm the scalp or inhibit regrowth. Many women choose to wear a wig because it can improve their mood and self-confidence. Other benefits of wig wearing include helping maintain body heat and preventing overexposure of sensitive skin to the elements.
WIGS: GOOD, BAD & RIDICULOUS!
While many people purchase a wig to change their style or to create a dramatic look for a special night, others wear wig hairpieces on a daily basis to conceal thinning hair or to cover baldness resulting from an illness. But no matter why you choose to wear a wig, there are a few things that you should keep in mind before you purchase one and incorporate wigs into your style.
There are many different types of wigs available and they can range from being inexpensive to extremely expensive. For the most part, the old saying, "you get what you pay for," is true when it comes to purchasing wig hairpieces. The more you spend, the higher quality wig you'll get in return. And a higher quality hairpiece means that it will remain beautiful versatile for years to come.
Perhaps the most deciding factor that will help you decide how much to spend on your wig is how you are going to use it. If you are only going to use your wig occasionally for special events, you may be able to get by with an inexpensive wig. But since most inexpensive wigs are made with synthetic hair, it is almost impossible to match them up with your existing hair color or to achieve a truly natural look. Inexpensive wig hairpieces are also not finely wefted. That means that more hair is sewn into one weft of the wig instead of distributed throughout the wig evenly resulting in a baby doll hair look if you're not careful.
Other things to consider before you go by an inexpensive wig, is how you are going to style the hairpiece. Synthetic hair cannot be colored, permed or curled with thermal tools. So, your styling and change-out options with an inexpensive wig are limited.
All of these drawbacks make the natural-hair wig your best bet especially if you wear a wig on a daily basis. While this hairpiece may be a little more expensive, you can color it, cut it and curl it just like you would your own hair because it is real hair. Wig hairpieces made with natural hair also look more natural in sunlight and under certain lights than do wigs made with synthetic hair strands.
Even natural hair wigs, though, come with a wide variety of prices. The prices vary according to quality and length of the hair used and the craftsmanship of the hairpiece itself. Again, you get what you pay for.
If you plan to wear your wig daily, you should also look for wig hairpieces that are light and finely woven. The wig should allow a good amount of air to circulate through the wig and onto your scalp. This is not only for your own comfort but for the well being of your own hair. Tight and constrictive wigs can cause friction and cut off the blood supply to your scalp resulting in hair loss.
So, before you buy a wig, investigate all of your options carefully. Choosing a good wig now may save you money in the end because you will probably never have to replace it.
