All about wigs

Choosing between human hair and synthetic wigs

Wigs have been a popular choice for women's hair styles for decades. There are many reasons women chose to purchase a wig. For some it is the desire to occasionally change their hairstyles without the need to grow or cut their real hair. For others it is medical reasons such as hereditary hair loss, or thinning. Wigs have been a popular choice for women's hair styles for decades. There are many reasons women chose to purchase a wig. For some, it is the desire to occasionally change their hairstyles without the need to grow or cut their real hair. For others, it is medical reasons such as hereditary hair loss, or thinning, or serious conditions such as cancer treatments. Whatever the reason for wanting to purchase a wig, the choices can often be confusing.

The biggest choice to make when deciding on a wig is choosing between synthetic and real human hair. Synthetic wigs are often referred to as monofilament wigs, reflecting the fibre from which they are made. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Properly cared-for wigs will last a lifetime so it is important to make a choice that you are comfortable with.

Some of the main differences between synthetic and real hair wigs are:

Weight: Synthetic wigs are often much lighter weight than real human hair wigs. This can be an important issue if the wig is intended for daily routine use as synthetic is easier to wear and carry. Many patients are looking for a wig to cover up hair loss that is permanent, or longer term. These patients do not want a wig that will make them feel uncomfortable and are more likely to choose synthetics. Women who are looking for a wig to wear on a regular basis for style reasons also may prefer synthetic to real hair for the easier wearability.

Style: Most synthetic wigs come pre-styled and will hold that style for a long time. Real hair wigs often come un-styled for the user to create their own design. This is mostly because real hair does not hold a style for long-term storage or shipping. It will hold a style as long as your own natural hair normally would. This is great for women who love to style their hair and create new looks with their wigs. Women on the go often choose synthetics because they do not have to bother with constant styling but can simply slip on their wig and be on their way.

Care: While synthetic wigs are much easier to care for overall, the most important thing to remember is never to expose your synthetic wig to heat. Any heat source from blow dryers to heating vents or, of course, open flames will seriously damage the fibres of a synthetic wig, whilst real wigs can be styled using any device normally used on your own hair without damage. Real hair wigs need to be cared for in much the same way as your real hair. This includes washing and re-styling, whereas most synthetic wigs are of the 'shake and go' variety requiring very little maintenance, although longer styles may require light picking or finger combing.

Cost: This can be a real issue for some, but considering the fact that a wig will last for many years, often the lifetime of the user, you should buy the best wig you can afford. Synthetic wigs often cost less simply because the product is easier to make than one of real hair. A quick search will find bargain-basement prices in the thirty to forty pounds range, but in those cases it is very much a matter of 'you get what you pay for'. These cheap wigs are designed for one-off use, perhaps for a fancy dress party. On average you should expect to spend between £200 - £400 for a very good quality synthetic wig; a wig that has been correctly fitted and then styled specifically for you. A designer wig made with human hair and bought from an exclusive boutique might well cost £1,000 or more. A quick Google search gave one boutique quoting "prices from £3,000", with some wigs more than double that!

Whichever style you choose, wigs are a vibrant and fun addition to your wardrobe and can give you a bold new look in the blink of an eye. Perhaps even more important, for those dealing with illness, a wig can provide a sense of normality and well-being during their difficult struggle and allow them to lead their daily lives with dignity.

Finding a reliable supplier of quality wigs

When looking for a wig, especially if it is to cover up baldness due to chemotherapy, it is not the time to let emotions dictate an impulse purchase. Take your time and find the perfect wig that will make you feel good about wearing it.

Make sure the design and style you choose is comfortable to wear. This is particularly important if the wig is for everyday use rather than for occasionally changing a style or for a special function.

How wigs are constructed

Only the finest quality monofilament wigs offer the kind of comfort and style found in our range. A hand-tied top combined with double-monofilament construction, plus calibrated machine wefting at the sides and back ensures your comfort and style. A polyurethane tape tab at the front completes our beautiful carefully crafted product.

TLC Design

Most monofilament wigs with only one-layer construction can cause discomfort, itchiness and even scalp sores. Our two-layer construction (TLC) are created for maximum comfort and worry-free wearing. Another exampe of the 'Tender Loving Care' built into our range of wigs.

Adjustable comfort

No matter how beautiful a wig may be,if it isn't comfortable you won't wear it. That's why our range of wigs features adjustable straps, because your comfort settings may not be the same at the end of the evening.

Advanced Weaving Technique

As shown in the picture, the monofilament construction is comfort-enhanced by a special weaving technique, which results in excellent ventilation. Your wig will 'breathe' while being worn, thereby preventing heat and moisture build-up.

Matching scalp colours

Amother important benefit is the chameleon-like base layer which has the ability to match you own individual scalp colour.