The term wig is a shorter version of the word periwig which first appeared as an English term back in the 1600s. A wig is a head of hair made from any of the following materials:
• Real human hair
• Horse hair
• Feathers
• Buffalo hair
• Yarn
• or Synthetic materials
Wigs are worn for many reasons. They are worn mainly for fashion; some due to aesthetics; some to hide a balding head; while a handful are worn to portray roles in films or plays.
The Creation of this Great Hairpiece
There are currently two methods of making wigs-the traditional method and machine manufacturing. The traditional way of creating wigs is focused on producing finer wigs for film and theatrical presentations. Wigs that are machine manufactured are much cheaper and are often not custom-made.
1. The very first step to creating customized wigs is to take the measurement of the wearer’s head. Real hair should be tied in tight knots all around the head before the measurement is taken. Once the knots are in place, measurement is taken and recorded. There are some wig manufacturers who make a copy of the head. They do this by wrapping clear plastic on the person’s head and putting the necessary markings. This is a more detailed approach to wig-making as it captures the natural markings of the person’s hairline. The wigform is based on the markings and measurements.
2. Once the wigform has been set, the wig netting or wig lace is placed over it. Wig netting is made of a fine lace of polygonal cells. This can be made from fibers that are either natural or synthetic. The edges have finer laces just so they could blend with the facial skin. The heavier lace is placed at the center to provide maximum support. The lace is the part of the wig that has to be trimmed and properly sewn to achieve the proper shape of the wearer’s head.
3. The materials that are used in making wigs vary in their sources, length, texture and color. The manufacturer of the wig chooses from a variety of hair when he starts to make the hairpiece. The design also dictates the type of material that will be used for the wig. The chosen material is then aligned in a hackle which is a device that is used to straighten hair. This tool also weeds out the weaker strands of hair which are not fit for wig-making. If there is more than one material to be used, this device will also even out the varieties.
4. The term used to refer to the tying of hair strands into a wig lace is ventilation. The hair is folded into half so that the strands can be taken off from the center. A wig hook is used to take strands of hair and tie them slowly into a lace. This hook is bent to come up with the best ventilation knots. Since wig-making is all about lacing, folding and tying knots, the actual length of the hair strand is twice the length of the finished wig. The center of the wig has the most number of hair strands while the edges have finer hair.
5. The next step is to fashion the wig into the desired style.
6. Once the wearer tries the wig on, any strand of wig that does not fall into its place is cut. This is the only time that the wigmaker can finally say that the hairpiece is ready to be used.

Hair structure and various hairs available today


Hair structure and various hairs available today

Hair extensions can dramatically improve your appearance. However, before you take the plunge and go in for hair extensions it would help to understand the quality of hair extensions and what the typical structure of hair is like.

The hair structure


The hair structure

The hair when observed on a microscopic level is actually composed of various layers. The outer coating is known as ‘cuticle’ and comprises many long cells which overlap with one another. They align in a unidirectional manner and is the main component that keeps the moisture in the hair intact. It also guards against the weather and other elements. In fact, shiny hair is a sign of having a healthy cuticle.

How to determine an extension’s quality?


How to determine an extension’s quality?

The best way to gauge the quality of a hair extension is by assessing the cuticle. Usually, prices can also be an indicator of the overall quality. The more the price of the extension the more will be the quality and vice versa. Also, if the layers of the cuticle are intact and facing the same direction it means it is a healthy cuticle and so the price of the hair extension will also be higher. Bad quality cuticles indicate interlocking cells which can cause matted and knotted hair.

Types of hair and their structure differences


Types of hair and their structure differences

The hair used in the extension industry can originate from various countries. Each ethnic race has a different hair structure. Here we discuss some of them:

European hair:

Indian hair:

Asian hair:

Remi hair:

Synthetic hair:

An innovative nonsurgical hair replacement solution specifically designed for medical hair replacement applications was released by a Chicago-based hair loss solutions company, White Cliffs Hair Studio.   The so-called “HRD” or “Hair Reconstruction Device” hair system – a state-of-the-art Cancer Wig – answers the unique needs of those in the Chicago area who have suffered impermanent hair loss due to Cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. “This is not like the simple Cancer wigs that all of the Chicago hair replacement studios are currently offering,” says Paul Sandor, owner and operator of White Cliffs’ Chicago hair replacement studio.   “Our HRD Cancer wig is sturdy and durable and exactly duplicates the patient’s hair to what it looked like before the hair loss occurred. “More importantly, the HRD Cancer wig, while only a temporary solution until a patient’s hair grows back, can be adhered to the patient’s head for extended periods of time.   This allows the patient to perform all normal living activities while wearing the HRC Cancer wig including exercising and showering and sleeping. According to Sandor, the process is a simple one.   “After the diagnosis, the patient comes into our studio before the radiation or chemo treatment, the earlier the better.   We will then design the hair system, or “Cancer wig” to exactly duplicate the patient’s hair as it is before she loses that hair,” says Sandor.    “We’re talking about the hair texture, color, density, part and hairline. The works. “For many years, medical experts have insisted that Cancer patients who are able to go through the process of the difficult treatments, like radiation and chemotherapy, will heal faster and easier if they look in the mirror and see a healthier self looking back at them. Linda Sweeny of Round Lake Beach, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, lost her hair after chemotherapy.    “I never saw myself looking so ill,” said Sweeny.   “The hospital helped me with my hair system while I was still being treated.   When I came home, I never had to see myself without hair and neither did my children.   In the end, it allowed us all to feel better.   Because I was able to live in this particular Cancer wig, I didn’t have to wear a non-custom wig that altered my appearance in a different way and my neighbors and co-workers never knew I was sick.   That’s how I wanted it. “Sandor is quick to point out that even the best, most expertly made Cancer wigs can only be as good as the professionals who maintain it for the patients throughout the process.   “The FDA has listed our solution as an acceptable prosthetic for this application,” says Sandor.   “But even more important than that is the level of training our staff has undertaken to apply these Cancer wigs to a patient so that it looks natural and undetectable. “The White Cliffs Chicago hair replacement staff is highly trained and that, along with their natural talent and compassion for this very special group of clients, is allowing White Cliffs Hair Studio of Chicago to offer Cancer patients something unique and different that actually works helps them not just to look better but to feel better.

As a purchaser, you always have that need to pursue the right brand names for a particular item you need to buy.   Well, you are not blamed for having that attitude.   Of course, you only want the best for you.   Additionally, your product choice will help you determine the price you will pay.   When buying human hair wigs online, you have a wide array of choices.   Aside from Revlon, Raquel Welch, Forever Young and Beverly Johnson, the following brands for discount wigs should also be considered. Alan Eaton.   One product brand making its own name in the market for human hair wigs is Alan Eaton.   While these discount wigs offer you comfort and realism, style is never sacrificed.   You may conveniently wear these wigs everyday without encountering any problems.   Plus, the line is also applauded for offering affordably priced wigs that you are allowed to heat and style.   Some of the most popular choices in this group are Hope, Beau, Enchanting, Quest and Fortitude.   The price starts at a very cheap price of $69. 95 but may go as high as $359. 95. Jon Renau.   If you are looking for a line of human hair wigs that will provide you limitless possibilities as to styles and colors, Jon Renau is a name to remember.   This line of discount wigs provide you with a European Collection made out of 100% fine hair weaved on top of wig caps.   Aside from getting the human hair wig collection, you also have synthetic wigs featured in the Monofilament, O’Solite and Illusions line.   Best sellers include Dana, Decadent, Allure and Jessica.   These are sold in between $49. 95 and $648. Motown Tress.   This brand of ebony discount wigs has been in existence for over 36 years.   At the moment, the brand follows the path of African American hair trends.   It also has hundreds of styles for synthetic hair wigs on its list aside from the 50 plus human hair wigs it is offering to the public.   Popular choices for patrons are Angela, Denver, Jade, Badu, Bianca, Nyx, Pomona, Zelda and Godiva.   These hair pieces are sold at a price that starts from as low as $33. 95 to as high as $109. 95 only. Wig Pro.   Another popular line for human hair wigs comes from Wig Pro.   The company has its exclusive line known as the Optimum Cuticle Hair.   Though these discount wigs are treated, the quality of human hair is never compromised by the company.   In fact, this innovation makes the hair strands tangle free.   Some of the very prominent items that customers die for in Wig Pro are Bardeaux, Shortie Monofilament, Christina, Katrina, Adelle, Amber and Jacqueline.   This line is quite expensive with a starting price of $70 but can cost as much as $1,250 a piece. Looking into more brands for discount wigs may bring better options for you as consumers.   With the right brand choice, you will surely get the best out of the purchase.   There are yet other human hair wigs in the market that you may think of.   The best ones are offered by some of the reputable online shopping sites.   Get a chance to know more about these products through a catalogue that you may surf through the Internet.

I love her hair and I want mine to look like it but I’m too chicken to dye and cut it. Please help me!

How to apply hair extensions?


How to apply hair extensions?

You could always visit a professional salon to get your hair extensions applied. However, if you are the DIY kind who loves to get hands on with things then you could apply hair extensions on your own as well. Here are some things to look out for as well as useful tips and tricks.

Get the tools in place


Get the tools in place

Firstly, before you begin attaching your hair extensions you need to ensure that all of the tools are in place. The last thing you want is to go searching for the tools while you are in the middle of applying an extension! Make sure you have a comb, hair clip and hairspray to keep your hair partitions in place.

Sectioning your hair


Sectioning your hair

Make sure to comb back all of your hair so that it is separated from the rest of the face. Then, slowly partition the portions of this hair so that you can easily place the extensions on each section. If you happen to have long hair then a high quality grip will help to keep the hair in place. You might also want to place a grip on top of the hair to keep the hair in the same place.

Using the clip extensions


Using the clip extensions

This is probably the only kind of hair extensions that you can apply on your own. The other variants are only meant to be applied under professional supervision. When you are using the clip hair extensions then make sure to apply a bit of hairspray onto the hair first. This will add volume and firmness to the hair texture. Then open up one clip of a hair extension piece and place it on the back of the hair. Continue this process until you have reached the front portion of the hair. The way to add the clip type hair extension is to gently place the clip on the portion of hair you want to attach it to. Then clip it on and continue with all of the clip extensions.

Glue based method


Glue based method

You can also use glue to bond the hair extensions onto the portion of hair you want. However, it is recommended that only a professional stylist perform this for you. You can achieve a long and flowy look by using the modulating technique. You can also apply lots of extensions by using a glue which is high in keratin. However, if you have thin hair, then do not try this technique as the bond can look very thick or may show.

Non glue methods


Non glue methods

You can also apply hair extensions without usage of glue. You can choose to braid the extensions on your hair or use tiny tubes to attach the extensions. Sometimes, even dental floss can be used for attachment and then removed leaving an invisible thread. Silicon pads can also be used for a softer mode of attachment using manual methods. Microcylinder shells can also be used at times along with a silicon coating to attach the extensions on a strand basis.

Once you have attached your hair extensions finish off by applying hairspray and then gently brushing downwards starting from bottom and then working your way up.

If you have any general related questions, for hair extensions, please visit our hair extension forums

The University of Toledo’s National Student Speech Language Hearing Association held their first annual hair cut off in April. The fundraiser benefited “Beautiful Lengths,” a charity that makes real-hair wigs for cancer patients.

I am about to cut my hair which is thick,healthy,no gray and down to my waist.I would like to sell it to a wig making company or donate it to a children ‘s cancer center to make wigs for the kids. Any suggestions? Thanks

Whether you are interested in Halloween costume wigs or you just want a wig for the next theatrical performance, Voguewigs is here to deliver. Bringing unique wigs to interested customers, this online virtual store demonstrates what quality and affordability are all about. Customers are offered access to an unbelievable number of costume wigs, with styles to fit all possible tastes and preferences. Costume wigs are often purchased by those who attend themed parties. There are wigs that pertain particularly to certain decades (such as the 1970s), representing the perfect choice for a party. Afro wigs, wigs with ponytails and hairpieces that remind us of famous actresses – these are just few of the options this virtual store offers. There are also wigs inspired by celebrity hairstyles (imagine yourself having the same hairdo as your favorite movie star from a favorite movie). In the end, it does not matter the style you are looking for since they’ll have it all. For those out there interested in costume wigs for theater plays, the selection is more diverse than one could possibly imagine. There are wigs that work perfectly for historical productions.   There’s also an impressive collection of modern costume wigs that can be easily adapted to any production or outfit. Lacey is just one of the many brands presented online and is definitely a top choice for unique styles. Depending on each person’s personal tastes, there are numerous synthetic wigs available as well. You can sport a hairdo that is sexy and flirty or one that is fun and exciting.   Anything is possible!In order to simplify the search process, you can search for the costume wig you want by browsing the categories. Online virtual stores such as Voguewigs present wigs in 17th and 18th century styles as well as style that pertain to the 1920s and African American influence. Other styles in the categories refer to famous characters and faces, historical costume wigs (particularly interesting for theatrical productions), focus on long length or Native American emphasis. The list of choices is completed with horror, gothic, Asian and rocker wig categories. By just looking at the categories, you can form a general idea about the styles offered and the diversity available on the website. Wigs are the best thing when it comes to changing ones hairstyle, allowing for a change that is positive and yet subtle. Costume wigs can either be made from human hair or from synthetic fibers, guaranteeing a look perfect for special occasions, parties or even theatrical productions. The industries latest products are presented online, along with celebrity trends and customer’s choices. Great offers are given to faithful shoppers, such as Private Sale discounts only for customers on the newsletter list. Famous brands are available including Forever Young, Raquel Welch, Lacey and Motown Tress. When shopping for costume wigs, one has the opportunity to decide upfront on the length. Both synthetic and human hair wigs can be chosen according to the length, with three major choices: short, medium and long. Costume wigs will definitely add a new touch to ones outfit, impressing everyone attending the party. You want to think long and hard about who you want to dress as!

I bought this super long wig for a cosplay (costume) that will take place at a convention later this year. I heard though that this material mats and tangles very easily. I want it to look nice for when the convention occurs and afterwards too.

How do I care for this properly to ensure that as little knots and tangles occur?

Also, in the worst case, how do I de-tangle it? Are there products that might help?

Thanks!