Wig Shopping for the First Time – Questions to Ask & What to Know

Wig shopping can be a quick and fun experience if you allow it to be. You can either call the shop ahead of time to ask questions or you can let me answer them for you.

Should you bring something to cover your head?

Yes and no. Yes, you do need a protectant to cover your hair with before you trial on wigs. However, the store may provide a wig cap for you to try on display wigs. If the store does not provide the wig cap at no fee, they may require you to pay $1 for a wig cap or stocking cap to put on before trying the wigs.

What if I like the style of the display wig but hate the color?

Many women do not realize that they are not necessarily out of luck just because the wig they like is too dark or too light. The wig providers or shop should have and normally do have a variety of color options on the wig you choose. However, unless you are familiar with how the numeric system for hair color, it will be hard for you to know for certain, if another hair color is the right match. Most wig providers have the other color options that correspond with the display wig in the original package and you cannot take it out to try it on; likewise, you cannot return it after purchase. (This is mostly true with “Black Beauty Supply Stores”).

Will people stare at me?

Wigs are gradually becoming the norm. It is not embarrassing to try on a wig; people will not stare at you. Many people resort to wigs for frequent changes to their hair, and love it, including myself. Plus, you are at a beauty supply store, come on.

How should I wear my natural hair?

Wear your natural hair in a style where it won’t be visible. Remember, you may be provided a wig cap. Braids or a low pony tail will be sufficient hair-dos for shopping for a wig. The first time you go wig shopping should not be a time when you have an updo or high pony tail that you cannot take out for whatever reason.

Can I get a wig the color of Nick Minaj or Katy Perry’s Hair?

For whatever reason you want a hot pink, lime green, royal blue, or bleach white wig, go for it! You can find these wigs at a “Black Beauty Supply Store” for cheap, inexpensive prices.

How do I put the wig on?

Store personnel can help you with the correct placement of a wig on your hair. When I shopped for wigs, I would try to put the wig on from the back, but this is incorrect. I was told you had to flip the wig over where you can see the inside, hold it on both sides, and place it on your head starting at your forehead.

Can I curl my wig?

You can curl your wig if it is 100% human hair. You can not curl your wig if the wig you have purchased is synthetic.

What type of wigs can I buy? Some are more expensive than others.

Wigs come in all different shapes and sizes: curly, long, light, dark, bangs, no bangs, etc. A first timer should know this. Questions of concern may pertain to why some wigs are more expensive than the other or can you buy a wig that shows some of your natural hair. These are legitimate questions. First, some wigs are more expensive than others because of the brand or because they may consist of 100% human hair which is more expensive than synthetic. Second, you can buy a wig that leaves some your hair exposed. This is not considered a “full” wig but a “half” wig. Women often choose half wigs because they want to have a natural part. Another option for a type of wig alongside the full, half, and human hair wig, is a lace wig. A lace wig is supposed to portray more of a natural head line. These can be more costly than your average wig.