There are a lot of things to consider when you are shopping for a wig. Do you need a full wig, or just a hair piece? Are you replacing your own hair, or enhancing it? Do you want something similar to your past styles, or something completely new and different? No matter what type of hair piece you decide on or why you want to wear a hair piece, the biggest decision will be between human hair wigs and synthetic wigs. Synthetic wigs have come a long way in recent years and many look just as natural as human hair wigs to the untrained eye.

Benefits of Synthetic Wigs

While human hair wigs traditionally provide the most natural look, synthetic wigs have improved the denier and texture of synthetic hair fibers so much that they almost feel like human hair fibers. In many cases, your friends and family will not be able to tell the difference between a high quality synthetic wig and a human hair wig.

The biggest benefit to synthetic wigs is the ease. They are easy to wear, style and care for. Synthetic wig manufacturers often boast that you can wear their wigs right out of the box, or shake and go. Very little styling is necessary due to a memory in the hair fibers for the style that you selected, be it straight and silky or wavy and tousled. Hair bounces back to the initial style with minimal effort after wearing, storing and washing. Synthetic wigs also hold up well in almost any weather condition, from humidity to rain. The hair fibers don’t fall flat or frizz. This makes synthetic wigs ideal for those with active or on-the-go lifestyles, saving time and effort when getting ready.

Synthetic Hair Basics

Just like human hair, synthetic hair is a polymer. Synthetic polymer hair is made up of fine plastic or acrylic fibers that look just like human hair. Lower quality wigs, like costume wigs, are made up of low-grade acrylic. Higher quality synthetic wigs are made up of monofilament or polyfilament fibers including nylon and polyester. The fiber strands are strung together and weaved or sewn into the wig cap. Cap styles also vary quite a bit, from soft and breathable monofilament to disappearing lace front.

Maintenance and Care for Synthetic Wigs

Caring for and maintaining synthetic wigs takes less time and effort than human hair wigs. But it’s important to use only hair products made specifically for synthetic wigs. This includes shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, combs and styling tools like hair dryers and curling irons. The synthetic fibers used to make wigs usually have a low heat tolerance and using heat tools could destroy the wig.

It’s important to refer to your wig’s packaging and care instructions to properly care for your synthetic wig. Most wigs will need to be washed after every 12 wears. Four steps is all it takes to wash a synthetic wig. Start with detangling the wig with a wig comb, working from the tips to the roots. This step should actually be done after each wear, as well. Then wet the wig under lukewarm water. Rub wig shampoo in your hands to loosen it and warm it up, then gently apply to the wig, including the cap. Rinse, squeeze excess moisture out (never wring!) and pat dry with a towel. Set the wig on a wig stand or even on a hair spray canister to dry completely before combing or styling. You do not want the wig to dry on mannequin or form head as this can stretch out the wet cap.

Rosalind Stella’s Wig Boutique in Philadelphia

If a synthetic wig is the best option for you, call us at (215) 725-3930 or stop by Rosalind Stella’s Wig Boutique on Bustleton Ave. between Rhawn St. and Loney St., just west of the Lincoln Highway. Our professional stylists will make your wig shopping experience fun and educational. Not only can you browse through the best selection of synthetic wigs in Philadelphia, PA, but we’ll also show you how to style and maintain your new synthetic wig. We specialize in caring!

For directions, click on the map and enter your starting point!

.