6 Wig Buying Mistakes That Can Spoil Your New Look
Purchasing a wig online can be a convenient and transformative experience, allowing you to explore new looks and boost your confidence. However, navigating the vast array of options and making an informed decision requires careful consideration to avoid common pitfalls that could leave you disappointed with your purchase. This guide aims to steer you clear of eight frequently made mistakes, from selecting an ill-fitting cap size to overlooking crucial factors like hair material, color matching, face-flattering styles, and wig construction quality.
1. Ignoring Cap Size and Fit
Consequences of an Ill-Fitting Wig
One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of purchasing a wig is ensuring the right cap size and fit. An ill-fitting wig can be incredibly uncomfortable, causing headaches, irritation, and even visible bulges or gaps that ruin the natural look you're going for. An overly tight cap will feel restrictive, while a cap that's too large is prone to shifting and slipping out of place.
How to Accurately Measure Head Size
To avoid these issues, you'll need to take accurate head measurements before ordering your wig. Use a fabric tape measure and measure the circumference of your head about 1/2 inch above your natural hairline and keeping the tape level front-to-back. Match this measurement to the wig cap's size chart, erring on the side of going a bit bigger if between sizes. Many retailers also provide printable measuring guides to help you map out the full dimensions.
Getting the wig cap size right is crucial for an undetectable, comfortable fit that lets you confidently rock your new look without worries. Don't fall into the trap of guesstimating - take the time to measure properly!
2. Selecting the Wrong Wig Material
The Unmatched Realism of Human Hair
For the most natural-looking and versatile wig option, human hair is the premium choice. Unlike synthetic fibers, human hair wigs can be styled with hot tools, dyed, and trimmed just like growing hair for an undetectable appearance. The hair moves and feels like the real thing. However, this realism comes at a higher price point.
Consider Your Styling Needs
Think about how you plan to wear and style your wig. Do you need to restyle it daily with curling irons or blow dryers? Want the ability to change between straight and curly looks? Or get it cut and colored at the salon? Human hair allows for all of this versatility that synthetic options lack. However, it requires more upkeep like regular shampooing, deep conditioning, and detangling to avoid matting.
If you have the budget for a human hair wig and are prepared for the higher maintenance, the natural look and styling flexibility make it worth the investment. Just be realistic about your needs and commitment to caring for this premium hairpiece.
3. Overlooking Color Matching with Skin Tone
Importance of Choosing a Flattering Color
While you may be drawn to a particular wig color that you like, it's crucial to select a shade that actually complements your skin's undertones. The wrong color can make your wig look severely unnatural and clash with your complexion in an unflattering way. Choosing a flattering color that looks seamless with your skin is key to pulling off a realistic, beautiful wig look.
Utilizing Resources to Find Your Best Match
So how do you determine which wig colors will be most flattering? Start by evaluating whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones to your skin. Then, look at wig color swatches and compare them to a photo of your natural skin tone and hair color. Customer reviews can also provide insights into how certain wig shades look on various skin tones.
Don't just pick a wig hue because you like the general color description. Take the time to consider how the shade will harmonize with your specific complexion. By utilizing all available resources, you can find the perfect color match for a cohesive, natural-looking wig style.
4. Choosing Incompatible Styles for Face Shape
How Different Wig Styles Impact Facial Features
Just as with regular hairstyles, certain wig cuts and lengths can either flatter or overpower your face shape. The right style will accentuate your best features while the wrong one can make you look washed out or unbalanced. Face-framing layers, volume, and wig length all play a role in achieving a harmonious, flattering look.
Finding Guidance on Wig Styles for Your Face Shape
As a general guide, oval face shapes can pull off most styles. Those with round faces should opt for styles with volume or layers around the cheeks to elongate. Heart-shaped faces look great with long layers and side-swept bangs. Square jawlines are softened by curve-hugging longer styles or wispy layers. If you have an oblong face, go for shorter cuts that add width or waves that create movement.
Before purchasing, look at photos of wig styles on models with similar face shapes to yours. Many retailers provide this guidance to help you pre-visualize how potential wigs may look on you. With some research on complementary styles for your face shape, you can avoid winding up with an unflattering wig cut.
5. Disregarding the Construction and Quality of the Wig
The Impact of Wig Cap Construction
While you may be focused on the hair fiber itself, the construction of the wig cap is critically important. A poorly made cap with minimal wefting or a bulky design can look unnatural and uncomfortable. Quality caps utilize features like lace fronts that create a seamless, undetectable hairline and scalp appearance. Monofilament tops allow for natural hair parting and movement. Hand-tied double-knot caps prevent shedding for longer-lasting wear.
Key Features to Look For
Beyond just the cap base, consider the hair quality - the more intricate knotting methods, the more realistic the hair will look and move. Low-quality wigs with wefted hair tend to have an unmovable helmet-like look. Evaluate density as well, with lace front styles offering the most natural gradation from hairline to crown. Machine-made wigs provide a more uniform density that can look overly wiggy.
Don't be lured in by pretty hair fiber alone. Do your research on the wig's construction quality by scrutinizing details like the cap material, knotting type, hair density, and other craftsmanship details. Higher quality means higher realism and longer wearability.
6. Not Verifying Return and Exchange Policies
Risks of Being Stuck with an Unsatisfactory Wig
Even after doing your research, there's always a possibility the wig you receive won't look or fit quite how you expected. Maybe the color is slightly off, or the style isn't as flattering as you hoped. In these cases, you'll want the option to return or exchange the wig. But some companies have very strict policies that could leave you stuck with an unusable wig.
Understanding Return Timeframes and Conditions
Before purchasing, thoroughly review the retailer's return and exchange fine print. Note if there is a limited window of time to initiate a return, like 14, or even 30 days like Fabawigs. See if you can only exchange for another product versus a refund. And pay attention to any conditions like the wig being unworn or requiring proof of purchase. Reputable wig companies should have reasonable, customer-friendly policies.
Don't get trapped into keeping something you're unhappy with simply because the return policy was too restrictive.
Find Your Perfect Wig
Avoiding common wig purchasing pitfalls comes down to being an informed and selective buyer. Carefully consider factors like getting an ideal cap fit, choosing flattering hair material and color, and prioritizing quality construction. Don't rush - take your time evaluating all the options. Most importantly, commit to proper wig care and maintenance to protect your investment. By steering clear of these mistakes, you can confidently rock a wig that truly enhances your desired look.
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