One of the first things I did when I was diagnosed with Alopecia, was get a wig! I know it is not the same as having your own hair, but genuinely makes a difference in making you feel a little bit more like yourself in times when you’re struggling to find that. I know this process can be so overwhelming and you can feel a bunch of emotions whilst trying to find the perfect one, so I have put together some related information which will cover reliable brands, wig maintenance, hair integration systems etc which will hopefully provide some clarity and make this process a little easier!
Disclaimer: Please note I have not tried all of these systems or wigs! These recommendations are based on a combination of my own experiences, research and reviews that I have been given by girls who have also tried these brands.
Firstly! Please don’t feel like you need to resort to a wig straight away if you’re not ready. For some people, they love it and for others they find it hard to grow comfortable with so they resort to other means and that’s perfectly fine. Go at your own pace and invest in something if you feel like it is something YOU want to do, not what others are telling you to do. I have had such a roller-coaster with my journey with wigs, by giving it a chance, and then stopping and then starting again and then stopping! It’s about what makes you feel comfortable and more like yourself.
Whether you are looking for a wig to purchase or a hair integration system, it is essential to do your research and find a reliable brand that you know can adhere to your needs. It is vulnerable process to trust someone in providing you with either, so be sure to invest in a company that you know will be able to do that and be sensitive to your requirements.
There are a couple of factors that come into play when it comes to purchasing your wigs. This generally narrows down to the size, the hair type, the cap type, the color, and the style. Let’s have a start!
Size
It’s important to establish your size instead of winging it. It can be frustrating to find the perfect fit, so measuring your head size for a wig will help! There are generally 3 sizes: petite, average and large. To achieve an accurate measurement, you should have someone help you. The tape measure should not be too tight or pulled when the measurements are taken – keep it snug!
Hair Type
You can decide your hair type between the choices of human hair, synthetic hair, and heat friendly synthetic hair. The best thing to do is to trial and error. Everyone’s opinions are different and we all feel comfortable based on our own personal needs.
Human Hair – A lot of people go for human hair because it offers the same styling versatility as real hair, because of this they do also require maintenance, styling and upkeep. Generally, human hair wigs are a lot more expensive for this reason. Human hair wigs can last a year or more if maintained properly.
Synthetic Hair – A lot of people think they need to purchase a human hair wig for it to look natural, this isn’t true. You can purchase a synthetic wig of good quality by a reliable brand, especially if that is what your budget prefers, and make it look natural and unnoticeable. These type of wigs have the benefit of retaining their shape so they require little styling. However, a con of synthetic hair is that it cannot be exposed to heat sources because it will end up permanently damaging the fibers which means you cannot use curlers or straighteners on them. Synthetic wigs generally last from 4-6 months if cared for properly.
Heat friendly synthetic hair – If you’re someone who doesn’t want to get a human hair wig but still want the styling versatility of human hair, then this is a good option for you. A con of this type of hair is that it can be a little bit more difficult to style than human hair. If (when wearing the wig) the hair is pressed against the back of something for a period of time, it can become matted around the nape area. Using your straightener or curler on a low setting can restore the shape if this happens. These wigs generally last about 4 months and if worn less they can last longer.
Cap Type
There are four basic types of wig caps: classic, monofilament, hand tied and lace front wigs.
Classic - These are machine made wigs with traditional wefted rows of hair that are sewn together. Due to the construction, the part is stationary and therefore classic wigs will offer less styling versatility. Classic wigs provide a very natural and affordable look that has stood the test of time.
Mono-filament – These are more expensive than classic wigs but they go the extra step to make your hair look completely real. Each hair is individually placed on a transparent mesh cap (instead of in rows), making it look like your real hair is growing from your scalp. This is an ideal option for someone who wants it to look natural and like its your own hair, especially if going through hair loss when you just want something that’ll look realistic.
Hand Tied – These are monofilament wigs that are sewn on a very soft piece of lace fabric. Unlike regular monofilament wigs, the entire cap has hand tied construction, which makes it look even more natural.
Lace front - Lace fronts can be on classic caps, mono-filament caps or hand tied caps. Lace front wigs have individually tied hairs on very fine lace around the hairline. This allows you to pull your hair back from your face for a natural look.
Color
Most people find it best to match their natural hair color, whereas some want to experiment and try colors they have never tried before! Its really about your personal preference and what you want to experience. If you are purchasing a wig online then you can send photo’s of the color that you prefer and stylists can help you to select an ideal color match.
Style
This is an area you can have fun with and go with what suits you. You can browse through options for short, chin length, medium length and long hairstyles depending on what look you want to go for.
Now that we have gone through the process, there are some things to be mindful of when purchasing a wig. It is important to bare in mind that not all wig sites that you find online are credible companies. Unfortunately, when trying to find an affordable wig online you can come across some sites that may seem legit but are actually companies trying to scam you. You can spot a fake wig company by observing their images that may look fake or plagiarized, unrealistic discounts/prices, no brand name/logo, blurry photos, lack of reviews, no social media accounts or no contact details. I know sometimes we really want to just find a wig especially when we first lose our hair but please be vigilant! Do your research and take your time.
Here are some companies to be wary of:
ukcheapwigs.co.uk, wigsnew.co.uk, wigshoponline.co.uk, wigsok.co.uk, hairwigssale.co.uk, halowigs.co.uk, wigsale.co.uk, ewigstyle.co.uk, popwigs.co.uk, ewigs.co.uk, vogguehairwigs.co.uk, wigshow.co.uk.
There are of course many reliable and credible companies where you can shop from. Here are some companies I have narrowed down that have beautiful looking wigs and reliable service!
NHS
My first ever wig was given to me by referral from the NHS. If you are someone who is suffering with hair loss for the first time and just want to experience what it may be like to get a wig, then you definitely have this option in the UK, just ask your doctor for more information!
Mora Mode
@_moramode
This brand ships worldwide and provides natural hairline wigs. They have beautiful wigs that look super natural and lightweight on, which I love! They have price ranges that go from affordable to then slightly more expensive which is perfect for those who have a budget.
The Hair Confidante
@the_hair_confidante
This company is based in the UK in London & Shrewsbury and they offer hair replacement with integration systems, micro-parting, toppers, wigs and so much more. With a good reputation and lovely reviews this company is familiar with clients suffering with hair loss and offer a range of options.
Lucinda Ellery
@lucindaelleryconsultancy
Based in UK, NYC, LA and MA, this company provides hair integration systems and medi connections for those suffering with hair loss. Prices range from about £1000+ upwards so if you are on a budget this is probably something you could look to potentially invest in down the line. They do provide good customer service and know how to cater to females needs who may be suffering with hair loss.
Lemonade Wigs
@teamlemonadewigs
I just recently discovered this brand on Instagram and I love the look of their wigs! They have a beautiful story on their website and are familiar with girls with Alopecia and cater to their needs.
UniWigs Human Hair
@uniwigs.humanhair
Linktr.ee/uniwigs.designerwigs
This company offers worldwide shipping and their wigs are beautiful! They have a range of options offering human hair and synthetic wigs. They have lightweight and dense wigs which are perfect for a nice fit on the head that isn’t uncomfortable.
Free Born Noble Hair Wigs
@freebornnoblehairnwigs
This company offers luxury hair, custom wig designs and beauty products. People have amazing things to say about this brand in regards to their hair quality and construction and they offer worldwide shipping. You can check out their social media page on Instagram for an insight on their products and email them for product and price enquiries!
Chrissy Bales Wigs
@chrissybales
This company does customised handmade wigs and bespoke wigs. Their wigs look absolutely beautiful and they have a social media page online so you can see exactly what they can look like in videos and pictures. They offer consultations which are thorough, and offer advice so you can find the best wigs for you.
There are so many brands out there that offer good quality wigs, these are just some brands that I have come across and have done research on that come across credible and reliable for me.
As much as purchasing the wig is the main focus, it is important to remember that you would require tape/glue for tight grip, and products for maintenance too. Here are some products to consider investing in:
Wig Tape
Wig tape is double sided, medical grade sticky tape which is safe to use on your skin and comes in different strengths for a good wig grip. A good wig tape I would recommend is the New Walker lace front support blue liner tape.
Glue
The same goes for glue! The best glue I would recommend is the Bold Hold Extreme Cream Adhesive. There are so many other glues and glue removers out there, with testing you can find the one best suitable for you.
Shampoo for Washing
It is best to use sulphate-free shampoo’s on wigs as this maintains moisture instead of drying out the hair like most shampoos with sodium sulphate. I like the Kérastase Aura Botanica Bain Micellaire Shampoo as it is free from silicones, sulphates and parabens with a 96% naturally derived formula.
Hair Oil for Maintenance and Shine
I have heard SO much about the Keratase Elixir Ultime oil for wig maintenance and shine online! The before and afters look beautiful and their other hair products are also a dream.
Through trial and error you will come across what works perfectly for you. Take your time trying to figure it out and it will come together the way you need it to. For anyone reading this because you have just been diagnosed or currently suffering with hair loss, I just want to remind you that you are not alone. So many people, female and male go through this, and as disheartening and upsetting it can feel, you shouldn’t feel ashamed of looking for things like wigs or toppers to resort to. If you feel like this will help you then go for it and don’t look back!
'' Remember that bravery is not the lack of fear but the ability to move forward in spite of fear ''