Types of wigs guide – All about wig types You need to know

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Wigs have been in existence for centuries and are used for various purposes. They are a popular hair accessory for those who want to change their looks or style their hair without committing to a permanent haircut. Wigs come in different styles, colors, and construction materials that cater to various needs, making them a versatile hair styling solution.

Choosing the right type of wig can be overwhelming, especially with the vast selection available in the market. It’s essential to understand each wig’s unique characteristics and purpose to find the perfect fit for one’s needs.

Knowing the differences between each type of wig will help in choosing the right wig,now let’s start.

Types of wigs by wig cap construction:

Top grade wigs: Full lace wigs and Silk top wigs

Full lace wigs are constructed using a sheer lace material that covers the entire wig cap, making them a popular choice for those who want a versatile hairstyle as they can be parted in any direction. Silk top wigs, on the other hand, have a layer of silk material on top of the lace, giving the appearance of a scalp with natural-looking hair growth. This makes them a popular choice for those who want the most realistic-looking wig possible.

Despite their construction differences, both full lace wigs and silk top wigs offer a seamless, natural-looking hairline that blends well with one’s natural hair. Additionally, both types of wigs are essentially hand-tied with each hair strand attached individually, providing a natural-looking hairstyle with a flattering fit.

Full Lace Wig Construction VS Silk Top Wig Construction

What are the Pros and Cons of Full Lace Wig:

Pros:

  • Full lace wigs provide a very natural-looking hairline, as the lace material can be easily matched to the wearer’s skin tone and the hair appears to grow out of the scalp.
  • The entire wig is made of lace material, so it is very breathable and comfortable to wear, even in hot weather.
  • Full lace wigs allow for versatility in styling, as the hair can be parted anywhere and styled in a variety of ways, including updos and ponytails.
  • They are suitable for individuals experiencing hair loss or thinning, as the wig can cover the entire head and provide a full head of hair.

Cons:

  • Full lace wigs tend to be more expensive than other types of wigs due to the intricate construction and the use of high-quality materials.
  • The delicate lace material can be prone to tearing or damage if not handled properly, requiring additional care when putting on or removing the wig.
  • The application process for full lace wigs can be more complicated than other types of wigs, and often requires the use of glue or adhesive to secure the wig to the scalp.
  • Full lace wigs may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies, as the adhesive or lace material may irritate the skin.

 

What are the Pros and Cons of Silk Top Wig?

Pros:

  • Silk top wigs provide a very realistic scalp appearance because they feature a layer of silk material at the top of the cap with individual hair strands knotted into it.
  • The silk top creates the illusion of a natural parting or hair growth at the crown area and also hides the knots, which gives the wig a more natural-looking appearance and enables the hair to be styled in any direction.
  • They are comfortable to wear because the silk material is soft and gentle on the scalp, while the cap construction is usually lightweight and breathable.
  • They are a good alternative for individuals experiencing hair loss or thinning, as they provide a full head of hair and the silk top can help to conceal any bald patches or thinning hair.

Cons:

  • Silk top wigs are generally more expensive than other types of wigs due to the intricate construction and the high-quality materials used.
  • They require more care and maintenance than other wigs, such as regular washing and conditioning to keep the silk material and hair looking their best.
  • They may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies, as the adhesive or glue used to attach the wig to the scalp may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
  • The size and shape of the silk top may limit the style options for wearers who want versatile styling options beyond the natural parting or hairline created by the silk top.

Lace Front Wigs, 360 Wigs and Closure Wigs

Lace front wigs and 360 wigs both have lace material at the front hairline and can be styled with a parting or an updo that looks natural. 360 wigs have lace around the entire perimeter, allowing for a high ponytail or any style requiring hair to be pulled back from the face. Lace front wigs, on the other hand, have lace only at the front and require a bit more skill to style for updos than a 360 wig.

Closure wigs have a smaller piece of lace with hair attached, which is placed at the crown or top of the head, to create a natural-looking parting. The rest of the wig may be made of a different material that closely matches the texture and color of the individual’s natural hair. This type of wig offers a natural-looking parting while still allowing for a variety of styles.

In summary, all three types of wigs are designed to provide a natural-looking hairline and allow for styling versatility. However, they differ in the amount of lace used and the area of the head they cover, which may affect the types of styles that can be achieved.

Lace Front Wig

360 Wig

Closure Wig

What Are the Pros and Cons of Lace Front Wig?

Pros:

Lace front wigs provide a natural-looking hairline, as the lace material at the front hairline can be easily matched to the skin tone of the wearer and the hair appears to grow out of the scalp.

They are versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways, including pulled back hairstyles, as the lace material allows for a natural-looking parting and can be styled with hair off the face.

Lace front wigs are usually more affordable than other types of wigs, as they do not require as much lace material and construction.

Cons:

The lace material at the hairline can be delicate and prone to tearing or damage if not handled properly, requiring additional care when putting on or removing the wig.

The application process for lace front wigs can be more complicated than other types of wigs, and often requires the use of glue or adhesive to secure the wig to the scalp.

What are the Pros and Cons of 360 wig?

pros

  • 360 wigs provide a natural-looking hairline from all angles, as the lace material extends around the entire perimeter of the wig and can be easily matched to the skin tone of the wearer.
  • They are versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways, including high ponytails and updos, as the hair can be pulled back from any direction.
  • They are comfortable to wear, as the lace material is soft and breathable and allows air circulation to the scalp.

Cons:

  • 360 wigs tend to be more expensive than regular lace front wigs due to the additional lace material required for the entire perimeter.
  • They require more skill to install than regular lace front wigs, as they must be properly aligned and secured on the entire head circumference.
  • They may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies, as the use of adhesive or glue to attach the wig to the scalp may irritate the skin.
  • If not properly maintained or secured, the wig may shift or slip, especially when engaging in physical activity or when exposed to wind or other external elements.

What are the Pros and Cons of Closure Wig?

Pros:

  • Closure wigs provide a natural-looking hairline and part, giving the appearance that the hair is growing from the scalp.
  • They offer versatility in styling options, as the lace can be easily styled to create various parts, including a middle or side part.
  • Closure wigs are typically easy to install and remove, making them convenient for those who want to change up their hairstyle frequently.

Cons:

  • Closure wigs may require additional maintenance and care to keep the lace looking natural over time.
  • Closure wigs can be more expensive than other types of wigs due to the intricate construction and the use of high-quality lace.

U Part Wigs and V Part Wigs

U part wig

V Part Wig

  • A U-part wig and a V-part wig are both types of partial wigs that are designed to blend in with a person’s natural hair on the top and sides of their head to create a fuller look. However, they differ in several ways:
  • Shape: The shape of the opening in the wig is what sets them apart. A U-part wig has a U-shaped opening in the front, while a V-part wig has a V-shaped opening in the front.
  • Position: The positioning of the wig opening is also different. U-part wigs typically have the U-shaped opening located in the middle of the wig, while V-part wigs can have the V-shaped opening in middle or placed off-center to one side to create a side part.
  • Styling Options: Both U-part and V-part wigs allow for blending with a person’s natural hair to create a natural-looking part and hairline. However, U-part wigs offer more versatility in terms of styling options, as the U-part opening allows for more freedom and flexibility to manipulate the wig and the natural hair for different styles. V-part wigs are designed more for a specific part and hairstyle, and are less versatile in terms of styling options.
  • Leave out: The leave out of U Part wig request more hair, the v part wig request small leave out or no leave out.
  • Overall, while both U-part and V-part wigs are great options for those looking for partial wigs, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, desired hairstyle, and styling versatility.

Types of wigs by Wig Material

  • Human hair wigs: Made from real human hair, these wigs tend to look and feel the most natural. They are often more expensive than synthetic wigs, but can be styled with heat tools and can last longer with proper care. They also require more maintenance, such as regular washing and conditioning.

  • Synthetic wigs: Made from artificial fibers like nylon, polyester, or Kanekalon, these wigs are less expensive than human hair wigs and come in a wider variety of styles and colors. Synthetic wigs are pre-styled and do not require as much maintenance as human hair wigs, but they cannot be styled with heat tools as the fibers can melt or become damaged.

  • Heat-friendly synthetic wigs: These wigs are made from synthetic fibers that can withstand heat styling up to a certain temperature, allowing for more styling versatility compared to regular synthetic wigs. However, they still cannot be styled with as high heat or for as long as human hair wigs.

  • Blend wigs: These wigs are made from a blend of human hair and synthetic fibers, typically with the human hair making up 30-50% of the wig. Blend wigs offer a balance between the natural look and feel of human hair and the affordability and low maintenance of synthetic wigs.

  • Remy hair wigs: Made from high-quality human hair that has been carefully selected and processed with the cuticles intact, remy hair wigs provide a more natural look and feel than regular human hair wigs. They are often more expensive than other types of wigs but can last longer and require less maintenance.

Wigs Types By Function

Here are some additional details on each type of wig by function:

  • Fashion Wigs: These wigs are designed to enhance a wearer’s personal style or to inspire change. They come in a variety of styles and colors, from natural-looking to bold and dramatic, and are typically made from synthetic fibers. Fashion wigs are often used for photo shoots, fashion shows, or as part of a costume.

  • Medical Wigs: Also known as “cranial prosthesis,” medical wigs are designed for individuals who are undergoing medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or suffer from alopecia. They mimic the appearance and texture of natural hair and are available in both synthetic and human hair materials. Some medical wigs can be customized to match the individual’s natural hair color, texture, and style.

  • Cosplay Wigs: Cosplay wigs are used to create a specific character’s hairstyle or color for costume purposes. They are popular in fandoms, comic conventions, and other cosplay events. Cosplay wigs can be made from synthetic or human hair materials, and often require styling to achieve the desired look.

  • Drag Wigs: Drag wigs are popular in the art form of Drag performance, where drag queens and drag kings use wigs to create elaborate hairstyles, colors, and shapes. These wigs are usually made from synthetic fibers and designed to be durable, versatile, and striking. They may also feature intricate styling, such as curls, waves, or intricate updos.

  • Protective Wigs: Protective wigs are designed to protect natural hair from damage caused by styling, heat, or environmental factors. This can include wigs for people with natural hair, such as black hair, as well as those undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy, since wigs can help to prevent hair loss. They come in different styles and materials, including human hair and synthetic fibers, and can be customized to suit individual preferences.

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