Lace wigs have gotten a bad rap lately. There are groups dedicated to protesting lace wigs on Facebook, and if you google “bad lace wig”, the images that pop up will give you a good idea about what the protests are all about. It doesn’t have to be this way. Purchasing a quality wig and having it professionally applied are two of the main factors that determine whether or not a person makes the “Bad Lace Wigs” list or not. Check out these tips courtesy of Tiffani Chanel Luxury Hair!
Lace Wig Tips:
1.Keep it real. If you want your wig to look like your hair, the best thing that you can do is purchase one made of human hair. Because your natural hair usually won’t show, it is not necessary for the wig to be an exact match of your hair (unless you want it to be), but the hair should be a believable texture, length and color. Also, although some synthetic wigs are really nice, they do not last as long as human hair.
2. One size does not fit all. I’ve had several customers ask me how much of their edges they needed to shave off to wear a lace wig. The first time I received that question, I was floored when I realized that people were allowing people (often stylists) to shave their hair off for so that their own natural hairlines wouldn’t extend beyond the wig. There is no wig worth shaving your hair off to fit. Wigs come in all sizes and if your natural edges protrude beyond the wig, that means it’s an incorrect fit. If your hairdresser asks to shave your hair, immediately find a new hairdresser and a custom wig, or at least a larger stock wig.
3.Invest in your wig. Buy the right products so that your wig looks good as long as possible. Why make the investment in a wig if you won’t give it what it needs? When people skip this step, they often wonder why their wig has a bald spot (it happens), looks dry or feels brittle after washing? The right shampoo and conditioner will make the wig retain its original luster, especially if it’s being washed in hard water. Ensuring that knot sealer is applied to the cap will prevent hair from slipping out of the lace. Moisturizing with the right product will prevent buildup and will keep it from looking or feeling greasy.
4.Become an expert. Many people spend up to $100.00 to get their wigs applied, removed and washed. Properly applying a lace takes patience, trial and error but most people are able to master it in just a few tries (or less). You Tube is a great place to find lace wig tutorials, and most online wig stores have Do-It-Yourself videos on their websites. Being able to apply, wash and remove your own wig means that don’t have to wait for an appointment to look fabulous.
5.Give it a rest. While it can be really easy to get into the habit of wearing a lace wig every day, it’s important to remember that your own hair needs maintenance. If you wear a glueless wig, chances are, you’ll see and maintain your natural hair, but if you attach it for weeks at a time, in between wig applications, be sure to wash, deep condition, rebraid, and get your ends trimmed, if necessary. Your hair will love it!
– Tiffani Chanel