Understanding Wig Terminology: A Glossary for Beginners

Entering the world of wigs can feel overwhelming, especially given the variety of styles, materials, and construction methods available. To make your wig shopping experience easier, it’s essential to understand the industry's standard terms. This glossary will guide you through the essential wig terminology, helping you make informed decisions and find the perfect wig for your needs.

1. Cap Construction Types

The foundation of any wig is its cap construction, which impacts its comfort, breathability, and natural appearance.

Monofilament: A wig cap made from a thin, breathable fabric that mimics the look of your scalp. Each hair is hand-tied, creating the illusion that hair grows directly from the scalp. Monofilament wigs are ideal for those with a natural look and sensitive scalps.

Lace Front: A wig featuring a front lace panel, with individual hairs hand-tied to the lace. This construction provides a realistic hairline, allowing you to style the wig off the face for a natural look.

Hand-Tied: A wig where every strand of hair is individually tied to the cap. This method allows for the most natural movement and provides maximum comfort, as the wig conforms to the shape of your head.

Wefted/Weft: This term refers to rows of machine-sewn hair, often used in traditional wig cap construction. Wefts are sewn onto a stretchy material to create an open-cap wig, which is usually more affordable and lightweight.

Open Cap/Capless: A wig with open wefts for improved airflow and comfort. These wigs are lightweight and breathable, making them great for everyday wear.

Skin Top: A wig with a polyurethane "skin-like" material at the top gives the illusion of a natural scalp. It’s designed to make the hair appear as if it’s growing directly from the scalp.

2. Wig Fibers

Wig fibres are the material from which the wig hair is made. Different types offer different levels of realism and versatility.

Human Hair: Wigs made from 100% real human hair offer the most natural look and feel. They can be styled with heat tools and coloured like natural hair but require more maintenance than synthetic wigs.

Synthetic Hair: Wigs made from man-made fibres that hold their style, even after washing. Synthetic wigs are low-maintenance, affordable, and available in various colours and styles, though they are not as heat-friendly as human hair wigs.

Heat-Friendly Synthetic: A type of synthetic hair that can withstand low heat styling tools, allowing you to curl or straighten the wig, but with certain limitations compared to human hair.

Remy Hair: Human hair wigs where the cuticles are kept intact and aligned in the same direction to prevent tangling. Remy hair wigs are high-quality and long-lasting, providing a smooth and natural appearance.

Non-Remy Hair: Human hair wigs where the cuticles may not be aligned in the same direction. These wigs are usually more affordable but can be prone to tangling.

3. Wig Fit and Sizing

Ensuring a proper fit is key to wig comfort. These terms help you understand sizing and how to adjust a wig.

Adjustable Straps: Many wigs feature adjustable straps at the nape of the neck to ensure a snug, custom fit.

Petite, Average, Large: Wig sizes typically fall into these three categories, with “average” being the most common size. Measure the circumference of your head to determine which size fits best.

Wig Grip: A band worn underneath the wig to help secure it in place, preventing slippage and adding comfort.

4. Styling and Hair Textures

Wigs come in various textures, lengths, and styles, offering flexibility to suit different preferences.

Layered: A wig with multiple lengths of hair cut in layers to create texture, volume, and movement.

Bob: A classic short-to-medium-length style, hair typically cut straight around the head at jaw level.

Pixie: A short, cropped hairstyle often styled close to the head with shorter bangs.

Wavy: Hair with a slight wave, offering a beachy or relaxed look.

Curly: Wigs with defined curls that range from loose waves to tight ringlets.

Straight: Hair with no curl or wave, offering a sleek and polished look.

Permatease: A method used in wigs to add volume and fullness, where fibres are teased and crimped near the roots.

5. Wig Features and Accessories

Several features and accessories are designed to enhance the wig-wearing experience, making it more comfortable and secure.

Velvet Ear Tabs: Soft velvet panels on the sides of the wig cap provide extra comfort and help keep the wig securely around the ears.

Extended Nape: A longer section of fabric at the back of the wig, designed to provide more coverage and a secure fit at the nape of the neck.

Wig Cap Liner: A lightweight cap worn underneath the wig to protect your scalp and help keep the wig in place. Wig caps can be made of nylon or mesh for breathability.

Wig Tape or adhesive: is used to secure a wig in place, especially lace-front wigs. These tapes or adhesives can provide extra security for a worry-free day.

6. Hair Density and Length

Understanding hair density and length will help you find a wig that suits your styling preferences.

Density: Refers to how thick or thin the hair on the wig is. Common densities include:

Light Density: Creates a natural, airy look with less hair volume.

Medium Density: The most common density, providing a balanced look of fullness and natural appearance.

Heavy Density: Provides a fuller, thicker appearance and is often used for voluminous styles.

Hair Length: Wigs come in various lengths, ranging from short pixie cuts to long, flowing tresses. Length is usually measured from the head's crown to the hair's ends.

7. Colour Terminology

Wig colour choices are vast, but knowing the colour terminology can help you find your perfect shade.

Rooted: A wig where the hair at the roots is darker than the rest, giving a natural, grown-out look.

Ombre: A colour technique where the wig starts darker at the roots and gradually lightens toward the ends.

Highlights/Lowlights: Highlighted wigs feature strands of hair in lighter shades, while lowlights incorporate darker strands to add depth and dimension to the colour.

Blended Colour: Wigs feature a mix of shades to create a natural, multi-dimensional appearance.

This glossary should help you navigate the sometimes complex world of wig terminology, making choosing a wig perfect for your style, comfort, and needs easier. Whether you are looking for a natural appearance, comfort during hair loss, or a fun fashion change, understanding these terms will empower you to make informed decisions and find the best wig.