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Is Hair Loss Hereditary? | Genetics and Androgenic Alopecia

Is Hair Loss Hereditary? | Genetics and Androgenic Alopecia

The truth is that hair loss is a really complicated subject and we still don't know a lot about how exactly someone's genetics might play a part.

It’s Alopecia Awareness Month. A month that is poignant for me as I spent many years as a woman with unexplained hair loss, unaware that I actually had Androgenic Alopecia. After ruling out any underlying health conditions that could have caused my female pattern hair loss, I decided to forgo expensive hair loss treatments and invested in a wig instead. I didn’t know if genetics caused my hair loss, or hormones, or my years of flat-ironing my hair as a 2000s teenager. All I knew was that my hair was falling out and I needed to keep living my life.

While I’m not ashamed of my hair loss, as a woman it is valuable to me to be able to move through the world without my insecurities about my hair on display. Wigs and toppers saved me a lot of pain as I adjusted to my new normal. Hair loss can be very isolating and women don’t often talk about it, making it an even more challenging area to research. I’ve often asked: why me? With no obvious explanation as to why my hair loss became chronic, I've sometimes wondered if my hair loss is hereditary. However, no one in my family has ever experienced hair thinning as young, nor to the extent, that I have. Or at least, that’s what I thought until I started talking about my hair loss with my family and took a closer look at our family tree.

But first, what is Androgenic Alopecia?

Androgenic Alopecia, otherwise known as male or female pattern hair loss, is an extremely common form of Alopecia. Androgenic Alopecia presents through hair thinning or balding, typically at the hairline and crown, as well as through miniaturization of the hair (meaning individual hair strands become finer). Many people can go the majority of their lives without knowing they have Androgenic Alopecia, but environmental factors and medical processes can unmask the condition earlier, like it did for me. Because Androgenic Alopecia is closely linked to hormonal processes in the body, I always suspected that my Androgenic Alopecia was uncovered when I decided to stop taking hormonal birth control, which led to a dramatic bout of Telogen Effluvium and my hair never grew back.

Chelsea, who was diagnosed with Androgenic Alopecia

Before I decided to finally see a doctor about my hair loss, I’d known for a while that my hair had become thinner. However, I didn’t realize the extent of my hair loss until a saw a photo of the back of my head, taken from above. In the picture, I was sat down with a friend and my head was tilted back in laughter. My parting was very wide and a large patch of hair loss was apparent at my crown where you could see my scalp. Unfortunately, by the time you can see scalp through someone’s hair, they’ve likely already lost about 50-70% of their hair. This is very difficult and expensive to recover from, and instead of going down the path of medical intervention, I decided to start wearing wigs and tried to move on with my life. But I always wondered if my hair loss was somehow my fault, since I didn’t know anyone else my age who had it too.

Another picture of Chelsea's hair thinning


So, is pattern hair loss hereditary?

Androgenic Alopecia, or Androgenetic Alopecia, is thought to be linked to genetics. However, female pattern hair loss is, unfortunately, polygenic. This means that female pattern hair loss involves more than one gene, which makes it challenging to identify exactly what genes are involved at the root cause of women’s hair loss. Female pattern hair loss, while potentially hereditary, is not directly correlated with genetics. People can have both parents with thinning hair or balding and never develop hair loss themselves, or the other way around. In our current understanding of the genes involved in Androgenetic Alopecia, either gender can inherit the condition. This is because the genes that are linked to pattern baldness are carried on the X chromosome, meaning men or women are just as likely to carry it.

Ultimately, genetics are an unreliable tell for whether or not someone will develop hair thinning or balding because there are many factors as to how and why someone may lose their hair, such as vitamin deficiencies, styling practices, or hormonal changes brought on by thyroid conditions, menopause, or pregnancy. 

The men in Chelsea's family have the same widow's peak

I never realized I had a family history of pattern baldness because my own experience of it as a woman has been so different. I always wrongly assumed you had to inherit hair loss from someone the same gender as you. On one side of my family, the men all have had a widow’s peak that has begun in their late twenties and early thirties, then progressed later in life. My brother has it, my uncle has it, and my grandfather had it. It’s easy to trace my brother’s small experiences of hair thinning because there’s a line of men who share it, in the same pattern and age range. Men’s hair loss, while still stigmatized, is also more widely accepted as a part of life. No one tends to wonder if there’s something wrong with a man who is going bald; if he’s ill or if he did something to mess up his hair. It’s just a fact of life that as men age, and sometimes even when they’re young, they can lose their hair.


Why don’t we know more about female pattern hair loss?

For women, it’s not so simple. Women, particularly before the days of Google, had to seek advice from an actual person if they suspected they were losing their hair. Considering I used to only seek out advice on my Androgenic Alopecia on Incognito Mode, I can only imagine how many women this deterred from finding answers about their hair loss.

Chelsea's Grandmother as a teenager

Which is why I was so surprised to hear during a recent conversation with my mom that my paternal grandmother had, in fact, shown some signs of hair loss. My grandmother was of the era of women that coveted platinum blonde hair and she turned to at-home peroxide treatments to achieve it for years. It’s possible the hair dying and treatments could have contributed to her hair loss, but even in the years beyond her dying it, her hair did, anecdotally, show some signs of thinning.

When I think of my grandmother, I picture her in a figure-hugging outfit, with bright red lipstick, and her dark hair pushed back dramatically from her face. She never showed her part or the crown of her hair with this style. It’s possible she just liked this hairstyle, but it reminded me of how I would wear my hair in a deep side parting or up in a bun to disguise my own hair thinning before I started wearing wigs.

Chelsea's Grandmother and her brushed back hairstyle

My grandmother was an extremely proud, warm, and striking woman who would never have spoken publicly about her hair loss, if she had experienced it, even with her loved ones.

It doesn’t surprise me that her hair was never brought up previously as, honestly, there were so many more fascinating things about her, such as her love of and dedication to her career as a defense lawyer in Britain. In the UK, lawyers wear wigs, as a symbol of anonymity and displacement of personal identity and opinion in favor or truth and justice. I think my grandmother was, in some ways, most herself when she was in a court of law in her robes and wig. I wonder if a part of it was because she didn’t have to think about her femininity and how she looked in this setting. She was free.


We still don’t know exactly what causes Androgenic Alopecia, but it can be treated.

Androgenic Alopecia can be treated, through topical and oral medications, and even cosmetic procedures, particularly if it is caught early and diagnosed by a certified dermatologist who specializes in hair. However, there isn’t a cure yet for Androgenic Alopecia.

Chelsea and her Grandmother

Ultimately, I decided to wear wigs and found an incredible community of women online who understood how I feel. Unfortunately, I can’t ask my grandmother if she had the same female pattern hair loss as me and I’ll never know if she had it, too. I’ll never know how she felt about her hair. If she was a bigger baddie than me and didn’t give two flips about it, or if maybe sometimes it made her feel undesirable and alone like I felt before I found my confidence again. I can’t help but daydream about us spending a day out wig shopping. I wonder what she might have chosen, if she’d have gone back to her blonde days or chosen something totally eccentric and colorful, like who she was as a person.

The truth is I’m still the only woman, to my knowledge, in my family history that has had Androgenic Alopecia and whose hair began thinning in her late teens and twenties. I will likely never know if my hair loss was caused by my genetics. That said, I hope the things I pass on are the more important things I got from my family: love, compassion, tenacity. But if I’m not the last woman with hair loss in my family, at least the next girl will know who to turn to.

 

Special thanks to Dr. Kumar Sukhdeo from Nupello.com for speaking with us for this article and video. You can follow him @drkumarsuhkdeo and check out the interview in the video at the top of this page!

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A Closer Look at: Highline Wigs (Toppers by Sharon) and Lusta Hair

A Closer Look at: Highline Wigs (Toppers by Sharon) and Lusta Hair

 

Highline Wigs and Lusta Hair both create gorgeous human hair toppers and wigs with signature custom coloring. So, what’s so special about a Highline hair topper or a Lusta wig? Let’s take a closer look at the different cap constructions and products from each brand.


Two brand collections that we stock regularly through our Resell market are Lusta Hair and Highline Wigs (Toppers by Sharon). They both create hair toppers for thinning hair and wigs for balding women. If you’re interested in finding the best affordable topper and wig options for purchase, check out Resell: Silk or Lace. Through our resell market, you can purchase lightly worn wigs and toppers in great condition from your favorite hair brands, like Lusta or Highline, for a fraction of the original price. 


Highline Wigs (Toppers by Sharon)

Highline Wigs hair topper

Highline Wigs hair topper

Highline Wigs hair topper

Highline Wigs, based in New York, carries a collection of different types of hairpieces, but is primarily known for their realistic silk top Highline toppers. Their toppers come in a variety of sizes and densities, making them ideal for hair thinning. Highline’s pony topper, for example, comes in a smaller base size and is a low density hair topper, making it ideal to clip on and throw up into a ponytail or bun. Highline silk toppers also come in larger base sizes for women who need fuller coverage. Almost all of Highline’s silk top toppers come with a signature haircut and custom color by their team, unless the hair is specified as “natural” or “virgin” in the description.

Highline Wigs pony topper

Highline Wigs pony topper

Highline Wigs pony topper

Highline also stocks both silk top and lace top wigs. Highline’s lace wigs will come with a plucked natural hairline and lightly bleached knots. All of Highline’s hair toppers and wigs come with multi-directional partings, unless otherwise specified. Both cap constructions come with the same signature cut and colors by Sharon and her team that Highline Wigs is known for.



Lusta Hair

Lusta Hair topper in "Golden Girl"

Lusta Hair topper in "Golden Girl"

Lusta Hair topper in "Golden Girl"

Lusta Hair is an online wig and topper store based in Australia. Lusta Hair carries a variety of hair toppers for thinning hair and wigs for balding women. Lusta Hair is known for their comfortable-fitting cap constructions and unique variety of custom colors with catchy names like, “So Fetch!” 

Lusta toppers come in a variety of base sizes, lengths, and densities, but they always come with the signature realistic Lusta silk top topper construction. Lusta also creates halo hair extensions, which can be worn on their own or blended seamlessly with a Lusta hair topper.

Lusta Hair essentials wig

Lusta Hair essentials wig

Lusta Hair essentials wig

Lusta carries a variety of human hair wig products, including silk top wigs and silk top lace front wigs. First up, the Lusta essentials wig, a silk top cap construction that comes either with or without a lace front. Next, the Lusta game changer wig, which boasts a multi-directional parting, hyper-realistic plucked hairline, and exclusive silicone lining to make sure your hair stays perfectly in place all day long. The silicone lining on their game changer wig makes this an ideal wig for balding women, but it can be worn even with your own hair underneath.


Lusta and Highline make some of the best hair toppers on the market! Interested in purchasing the best affordable hair toppers and wigs from Highline Wigs or Lusta Hair product? Check out our Resell: Silk or Lace collections to purchase lightly worn Highline Wigs or Lusta Hair pieces on sale!

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I Shaved My Head To Take Control of My Hair Loss - An Interview With Chloe Bean

I Shaved My Head To Take Control of My Hair Loss - An Interview With Chloe Bean

Did you know that over 50% of women experience notable hair loss in their lifetime?

Hair loss is such a common occurrence in women, though talking about it is still considered taboo. 

Chloe Bean, Arizona State University student and bald badass, is breaking down the stigma one Instagram and Tik Tok post at a time!

We were lucky enough to interview her for Hair Loss Awareness month and get a closer look into her life with alopecia.

Interview conducted via email August 12, 2021.

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 alopecia areata - women with hair loss - high quality wigs for women with thinning hair - why is my hair falling out

When did you first realize your hair was falling out?

“I was 8 years old when I first realized my hair was falling out.

I remember that I was in Elementary school and one morning while my mom was doing my hair, she noticed a bald spot on the back of my head. That’s when I started to notice a bunch of hair on my pillowcases every morning.

My parents initially thought that I was pulling out my hair, but over time more bald spots appeared and that’s when they realized there was a bigger situation at hand”

 

What was your initial reaction to your hair loss?

“I have been bald three times in my life now and I don’t really remember my initial reaction the first time I went bald since I was so young, but what I do remember is feeling like I didn’t belong when I was around people in public or around my friends since I wasn't like the other girls who had such long, beautiful hair.

Instead, I always had to wear hats out in public to try and hide the bald spots that were scattered throughout my hair”

 

How did you get diagnosed with Alopecia Areata?

“It took a few months of going to multiple doctors and dermatologists until finally a dermatologist at Mid Michigan Health Center diagnosed me with Alopecia Areata.

Little did I know the huge impact that would have on my life.

I feel that Alopecia wasn't as well known back then compared to today which is why it was more difficult for my peers to understand what was going on with me then compared to today's society, more and more people are starting to come out and say they have Alopecia or other autoimmune diseases which is absolutely amazing”

 

When did you decided to post about your hair loss and what gave you the courage?

“November 13th of 2016 was the very first time I gained enough courage to post a bald picture of myself on instagram.

After years of hiding it and having it control me I decided to take control of it.

alopecia areata - female hair loss - why is my hair falling out

There were many factors that encouraged me which include my family, especially my parents, but I would have to say someone who stood by my side and always had my back was my therapist.

I started seeing a therapist back in high school when I was losing my hair. After many sessions and countless tears, she helped me realize that instead of looking into a mirror everyday and not liking the image that reflected in it, that it would make me much happier to take control of my autoimmune disease by shaving what was left of my hair off. She was absolutely right. Rather than seeing bald spots grow bigger and bigger everyday around my head or seeing clumps of hair on my pillows, I felt powerful for once.

It felt like a weight lifted off of my shoulders after going completely bald. It was my new identity.”

 

What was the feedback like when you finally posted about your hair loss?

The feedback was absolutely powerful. I had people who I hadn’t reached out to in years commenting on my picture and my DMs were flooded with such positive messages.

Growing up people always knew I had Alopecia because they could see the bald spots around my head, but being able to take charge of something you have no control over and the courage to embrace it... is what makes you powerful!!”

 

When did your social media account starts to gain attention and how did it make you feel?

“My social media accounts started to gain attention because of my Alopecia and so to speak “coming out” with it.

Back in high school I would always post bald pictures of myself and I even made an Instagram account solely for the purpose of my journey with Alopecia, but I started to gain a lot of attention once a few of my Tik Tok videos went viral pertaining to Alopecia. Once that happened,

I realized something in my life that makes me truly happy is letting other people know that they aren't alone. It gives me a purpose!

Growing up I really didn't have a good support system or people who could understand me on a deeper level. I believe if someone is going through something, finding a support system is crucial. Knowing there are other people going through the same thing you’re going through and who can relate helps tremendously”

 

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspirations are both of my parents. They are what hard work and determination is. No matter what anyone in our family is going through they are my rocks, my support system and always have my back!

 

What was your experience like with medical treatments for your hair loss?

The fact that there isn’t a cure for Alopecia is very unfortunate, so my experience with medical treatment hasn’t been that great. I did start doing sessions of steroid shots back in high school that would get injected in my head, but that required countless sessions and once I stopped receiving the shots, my hair would just fall out again so it was like a never ending cycle.

female hair loss - alopecia areata - women with thinning hair - why is my hair falling out

I decided to quit receiving treatment this year actually and just embrace my baldness rather than try and fight for my body to produce hair when it isn’t meant to be.

 

What was the first wig you ever got and what was the experience like wearing it for the first time?

The first wig I ever received was from a nonprofit organization called Wigs4Kids. Maggie Varney the CEO made the experience out of this world!

During my appointment she showed me a variety of different wig caps and how they feel on your head to make me feel comfortable. I was also able to pick out the hair color on my wig.

The first time wearing it was so surreal because I knew that I had a wig on so it made me very self conscious about going out in public. I felt like I got really in my head and assumed that everyone would know I was wearing a wig because I knew that I was wearing one. I would constantly wear a hat over my wig to make me feel more comfortable, but over time it got easier and I accepted the fact I had a wig on my head.

 

What is your favorite wig color?

“My favorite wig color is a dark brown/auburn with ombre. I feel it makes me look natural and compliments my skin tone well”

 

Your cousins shaved their hair to make a wig for you and the video of it went viral! What was that journey like?

Family means everything to me. My cousins saw how difficult it was for me growing up at times not having hair, so when I recently went bald again my cousins decided to grow their hair out for me to make a wig from family hair.

Two years later, their hair was finally long enough to be able to donate it towards making a wig. At first my cousin, Grant, joked about it and would send me pictures of how long his hair was getting, but then it became a reality and he told me how he was now growing out his hair to make a wig for me.

female hair loss - real human hair wig donation - high quality human hair wig - women with thinning hair

Throughout the duration of him growing out his hair, he would update me over text or face time, explaining how he bought supplements to help make his hair grow faster. I am so blessed to have a family like mine!”

 

Female hair loss for Chloe has been a life long challenge.

Refusing to let her hair take control of her life and gaining the courage to shave her head, has been a life changing experience.

As the advice Chloe wish she had at the beginning of her hair loss journey states,

“It is such a beautiful process. Never fight for something that just isn't meant to be. I’m bald and have a story to tell.”

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Follow Chloe on social media, @chl0ebean!

Keep up with us on socials:

Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook & Pinterest: @silkorlace

 

 

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How do I make my wig last longer? | The Best Human Hair Wig Guide - Wig 101

How do I make my wig last longer? | The Best Human Hair Wig Guide - Wig 101

Whether you're new to the world of human hair wigs and human hair toppers, or a seasoned pro - getting a new hairpiece can be nerve racking.

Here are all the tips you need to set up your new human hairpiece for success! 

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How To Maintain Your Wig or Topper

High quality wigs need just as much love and attention as your natural hair. In order to increase the wear time and life span of your real hair wig or hair topper, it's important that you take great care of it!

Learn how to wash and dry, store, all the best products to use and some common troubleshooting for your new human hairpiece in this informative blog!

why wont my wig fit? how to put on a wig? how to blend a hair topper? how to make my wig not look bumpy?  

How to wear your natural hair under a human hair wig

We don't want you to end up looking like a cone head when you put your wig on.

Finding the best method that works for your when securing your hair under your wig will be a game changer!

Whether you have a lace front wig, a silk top wig or ever a mix of both - these methods will leave your wig application looking as natural as can be. 
how do i put on a wig? how do you put on a wig cap? how do i make my wig fit? how do i make my wig not look bumpy?

 

How to put on a hair topper for thinning hair

Human hair toppers for women are a great tool to add more volume and density to your hair.

However, it can be kind of tricky to get the blending just right with your natural hair and the hair topper.

So, we're here to break it down for you and help you blend that topper hair piece like a pro.

 

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How to wash a human hair hairpiece

Just like our natural hair, our human hairpieces need a good wash every once in a while!

Even the highest quality wigs will only last so long if they are not properly taken care of. 

In this video we share all the tips on how to wash your piece without causing damage, and increasing the longevity of the hairpiece! 

how do i wash a wig - do i need to wash my wig - what shampoo and conditioner is best for my wig - will i damage my wig if i wash it

 

3 ways to curls a human hair hairpiece

Whether you want curls that are big and bouncy or some subtle beach waves, every style is attainable with a curling iron and a little practice!

In this tutorial, professional hair stylist, Dorin Azerad, shows you three ways to curl a human hair wig!

As long as your hairpiece is human hair, these methods will work like a charm. 

how to curl a wig - best hair curling technique - how to get beach curls - how to get big bouncy curls - best way to curl hair

 

How to do the curly girl method on a human hair wig

If you have a hairpiece that is natural wavy or curly, it is so important to wash and style using the right methods!

The curly girl method ensures that your hairpiece will get the proper pamper and style it needs to become a frizz free, luscious, curly dream!

Watch this virgin curly human hair wig transform with a natural curly hair routine.

how to do the curly girl method - natural curly hair routine - how to wash a curly hair wig - how i was my curly hair

Now that you have all the tips needed to rock your new hairpiece, what are you waiting for - show the world the new you, with a new do!

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How I Beat Trichotillomania: My Journey to Self-Love and Acceptance

How I Beat Trichotillomania: My Journey to Self-Love and Acceptance

Jessica celebrates Hair Loss Awareness Month by sharing her experience with Trichotillomania, a body focused repetitive disorder (BFRB). While struggling alone for so long and wondering to herself if trichotillomania will ever go away, she found a community through wearing hair that helped her overcome her feelings for isolation and fear.
Suran Yoo
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Can you put your wig in a ponytail? Yes! | 3 easy summer styles for your wig

Can you put your wig in a ponytail? Yes! | 3 easy summer styles for your wig

With the summer heat still going strong, you may find yourself feeling extra toasty in your wig. Which begs the question: can you put your wig into a ponytail?

The short answer: YES!

The long answer: Yes, but the cap construction of your wig will make a difference to the types of ponytails, buns, and updos you can do. For a higher ponytail, it’s better to wear a wig specifically for the purpose of being put up, like ponytail wigs or active wigs. However, all wigs can be put into an updo with the right style and prep.

Before we begin showing you how to put your wig into an updo, make sure your wig is secured to your liking. Updos for your wig will work best with a snug fitting cap. I personally like to glue the lace front down and wear a wig grip for extra security! You will also want to brush through your hairpiece to get rid of any tangles prior to styling.

 

SUMMER WIG STYLE ONE: Inverted Tucked Ponytail

Ponytail Style on a Wig

For this wig-friendly ponytail, you will need three hair ties. I’m using one larger hair tie and two small elastics. You may also want to have some bobby pins on hand, in case you need to secure away any fly-aways.

To begin, separate the hair of your wig into three sections. The two side sections should be equal in size to each other, and the back should be the largest section.

Styling a ponytail wig step 1

Secure the back section of your wig into a ponytail at your desired height. I prefer a low ponytail for the wig I’m using.

Styling ponytail wig step 2

Next, measure the length of hair of your two side sections against where the back ponytail is secured. Where the hair reaches on the base of the ponytail is where you will secure the elastics on these two side sections.

Styling a ponytail wig step 4

 

Once the two side sections of your wig are secured into ponytails, you will take the end of the ponytail and flip it through and over itself in the space above the elastic. Repeat on both sides.

Styling ponytail wig step 6

Next, you will take one of the inverted smaller ponytails and wrap it around the larger back ponytail of your wig, pulling the larger ponytail gently through the space of the side sections. Repeat this process with the other side.

Styling ponytail wig step 7

The elastics should be hidden inside the hair of the wig. Should any flyaways occur on your wig, tuck these away using bobby pins. I personally like a couple of face framing pieces at the front to complete the updo!

 

SUMMER WIG STYLE TWO: Chic Messy Bun

Putting a wig in a bun step 1

For this bun updo style for your wig, you will need two larger hair ties and plenty of bobby pins (especially if your wig has layers like mine).

To start this updo style, separate the top section of your wig and secure it with a hair tie into a small ponytail.

Putting a wig in a bun step 1

Putting a wig in a bun step 1

Next, flip the ponytail over itself to create an inverted pony. Pull gently on the side twists of the inverted ponytail to create volume.

Putting a wig in a bun step 2

With the bottom section of the wig, create a messy bun by folding the ponytail over or under itself and securing it with a hair tie.

Putting a wig in a bun step 3

Putting a wig in a bun step 3

Putting a wig in a bun step 3

Next, take the loose end of hair from the bun and wrap them round the hair tie securing the bun. Pin them in place using bobby pins and secure away any flyaways.

Putting a wig in a bun step 4

Putting a wig in a bun step 4

Putting a wig in a bun step 4

If the elastic is still visible, pull gently on the hair. I personally like to pull here and there on the hair because I like a messy, romantic look, but if you prefer something neater and more sleek, you can leave the bun as is.

Wig in a bun updo style

Wig in a bun updo style

Wig in a bun updo style

 

SUMMER WIG STYLE THREE: French Twist Ponytail

Wig in a french twist ponytail

For this final ponytail hairstyle for your wig, you will need a hair tie and bobby pins.

First, you will want to section off the top part of your wig and divide it into two. Next, twist these two sections around each other in one direction. Hold firmly.

While holding this first twist tightly, take another section from one side of your wig and place it over the twist. Hold together firmly. Take a section from the opposite side and add it to the twist. Twisting in the same direction, twist the new sections of hair into the original twist.

Repeat this process until you reach the base of your wig and you have one ponytail. Hold the ponytail firmly and secure it tightly with a hair tie. 

Once the twist is secured, you can either take a small strand of hair and wrap it around the elastic to hide it, or you can take a hair accessory of your choice.

So, can you put your wig into a ponytail or a bun? With this step-by-step guide, of course you can! What are your favorite summer updos that you use to keep cool in your wig? Let us know in the comments below!

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Hair Loss Awareness Month | What Women With Hair Loss Want You to Know

Hair Loss Awareness Month | What Women With Hair Loss Want You to Know

It’s August, which means it’s also Hair Loss Awareness Month!

Wait— record scratch— what is Hair Loss Awareness Month?!

Hair Loss Awareness Month is dedicated to the millions of men, women, and children who are currently experiencing hair loss and navigating the social stigmas associated with it. Reasons why people might lose their hair include styling techniques and practices, health conditions, trauma, genetics, aging, medication. The list goes on.

When most people think about hair loss, they picture a balding man. But women experience thinning hair, too. In fact, did you know that it’s estimated that more than 50% of women will experience noticeable hair loss in their lifetime? So, why is no one talking about it?

The one thing that all women with hair loss share in common is that we are all in this together to break down the stigma — and we look good doing it, too! For Hair Loss Awareness Month, we asked five women with hair loss what this month means to them. Keep reading to see what they said!

Hair Loss Awareness Month - Kate in Lu's Wig
Kate, in a Lu’s Wig purchased from Resell: Silk or Lace 

Kate Resler @katerspie

While my hair loss started around 2012, I wasn’t diagnosed [with Androgenic Alopecia] until late February 2020. I’d only started to dip a toe into the hair loss community online a few weeks before.

I’m still figuring out where hair loss figures into my identity—as someone who had incredible bio hair for most of my life, that was a huge part of my personal vision of myself, and giving that up has been…  Odd? Hard? It sucks, but it’s also fine?

Hair Loss Awareness Month is not just about raising awareness for hair loss, but about redefining and expanding concepts of womanhood, girlhood, and beauty. Examining hair loss, talking about it, working out how we feel in a public forum helps redirect the way we value people for how they look and the choices they make around how to look in the world. I think, and hope, it’s a time to help us be a little kinder to each other.

 

Hair Loss Awareness Month - Eka

Eka @waapa.hair

I was born in Mexico, but as of now I’m considered a Mexican-American. I am 37 years old and I have lived in America for 11 years. I have been suffering from hair loss for 13 years and five years ago, I decided to go get checked by a professional and was diagnosed with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) and Scarring Alopecia.

When I first noticed I was losing hair, I was attending college. At that time, I was under a lot of stress because it was my last year at the university and I had a lot of worries and responsibilities on me. I had organized my wedding and was adapting to living here in the United States. There were many changes in my life I had to get used to. Living in a different country from where I was born was both an emotional and cultural shock. I had to adjust to a new life in a country that I had never known before; a new language, a new culture, and I was under a lot of stress, which caused my hair loss to start once again.

After my diagnosis, I was devastated to learn that my hair wouldn’t grow back again. I felt hopeless and ashamed. In the Latinx community, hair loss is a taboo. This taboo shows how hard it is for women to talk about hair loss because people can be very critical or opinionated on this sensitive topic. Not to mention the extremely high beauty standards that put an immense pressure on the idea of having beautiful and perfect hair.

It hasn’t been easy for me to accept my journey; I still have my ups and downs, but I’m at a point in life where I feel so much more at peace with myself. I love my new me and I'm happy to know that I’ve become the strong woman I am today.

Hair loss awareness month in my opinion is a reminder that we are beautiful, strong, and powerful, with or without hair. This is a reminder that experiencing hair loss doesn’t mean you have lost your femininity. It’s also a reminder that we are more than just hair. Although there is still a long way to go to break down the stigma attached to female hair loss, we are on the right path. The more we talk about it, the more awareness we are creating and the closer we are to breaking down this stigma. One of my personal goals is to normalize female hair loss in the Latinx community.


Hair Loss Awareness Month - Nancy

Nancy @honestcoif

A hairdresser told me I had thin hair in high school. I was more self-conscious of my excessive dandruff than my thin hair at the time. Fast-forward to my early thirties, and after bouts of major stress and taking birth control for many years, it had become a real insecurity that affected my confidence immensely. I remember looking into the mirror and seeing an ever-widening parting, so I would change my part over and over again. I would talk about it constantly and bring it up during social events, like how you would if you had a giant pimple.  I cut my hair shorter, which helped. But then it got so thin that I only felt comfortable wearing my hair in a ponytail.  I tried extensions, but they didn’t work since the thinning was diffuse. I cared for volume, not length.

It wasn’t until I discovered Suran’s Instagram, @the_strandie, that I felt there was relief coming my way in the form of a topper.  I was amazed by how natural it looked and how easy it was to put on.  I participated in a meet-up hosted by Suran in Dallas in February of 2020 and purchased my first topper from Serenity Wigs and Toppers.  I finally felt relaxed during social events when I wore my topper. And most importantly, I met people in the community that understood everything without explanation. Thank you to @the_strandie, @alliesalopecia, @thebrondeblonde, @lossknotlost, and @dorinazerad for helping me on this journey.  I’m so happy to celebrate Hair Loss Awareness Month with you all, and many more!


Hair Loss Awareness Month - YoMo

YoMo Castellano @hairlossbonita 

I've lived with Androgenic Alopecia since 2013. I wholeheartedly believe that Hair Loss Awareness Month should be 12 months out of the year. Dealing with hair loss sucks and what makes it worse is that, while it's something that affects millions of us all over the world, it isn't a topic that is talked about due to the associated stigma. Not talking about something that is so normal and common not only isolates us, but keeps us in the dark about facts related to hair loss. The lack of awareness and education can lead to negative psychological and emotional effects on an individual, such as depression, lack of confidence, social isolation, millions of dollars wasted on hair growth treatments/solutions that may not work, and the possibility of being taken advantage of by scammers who are looking to make money off of folks who desperately want to grow their hair. The biggest missed opportunity is not knowing that there is an amazing hair loss community on social media who can help make the hair loss journey a lot less lonely. 

When I first joined the hair loss community on Instagram at the end of 2019/early 2020, I didn't find Latinas talking about this topic, which didn't surprise me. Hair loss is a major taboo subject in our community. It is because of this that I created HAIRLOSSBONITA to raise awareness about Alopecia, in English and Spanish, and to show that one can live a fab and full life with hair loss. The lack of chatter about hair loss in the Latinx community (and all communities for that matter) must change and I vow to do what I can to help change this narrative. It's because of this that I have made it my mission to shed light on Alopecia to break the stigma and normalize wearing alternative hair. Celebrities shouldn't be the only ones having fun with wigs and toppers!

 

[En Español:

Hola, soy YoMo y vivo con alopecia androgénica desde 2013. Creo firmemente que el Mes de la Conciencia sobre la Pérdida del Cabello debería ser 12 meses al año. Lidiar con la caída del cabello apesta y lo que lo empeora es que, si bien es algo que nos afecta a millones de personas en todo el mundo, no es un tema del que se hable por el estigma asociado. No hablar de algo que es tan normal / común no solo nos aísla sino que nos mantiene en la oscuridad sobre los hechos relacionados con la caída del cabello. La falta de conciencia / educación puede provocar efectos psicológicos y emocionales negativos en un individuo, como depresión, falta de confianza y aislamiento social, millones de dólares desperdiciados en tratamientos / soluciones para el crecimiento del cabello y la posibilidad de que los estafadores se aprovechen de las personas que desesperadamente quieren que le crezca el cabello. La mayor oportunidad perdida es no saber que existe una increíble comunidad de pérdida de cabello en las redes sociales que puede ayudar a que el proceso de pérdida de cabello sea mucho menos solitario.

Cuando me uní por primera vez a la comunidad de pérdida de cabello en Instagram a fines de 2019 / principios de 2020, no encontré a latinas hablando sobre este tema, lo cual no me sorprendió. La caída del cabello es un tema tabú en nuestra comunidad. Es por esto que creé mi página IG llamada HAIRLOSSBONITA para crear conciencia sobre la alopecia en inglés y español y también para mostrar que uno puede vivir una vida fabulosa y plena con la caída del cabello. La falta de charla sobre la pérdida del cabello en la comunidad Latinx (y en todas las comunidades) tiene que cambiar y prometo hacer lo que pueda para ayudar a cambiar esta narrativa. Es por esto que me he propuesto crear conciencia sobre la alopecia para romper el estigma, pero también para normalizar el uso de cabello alternativo. Las celebridades no deberían ser las únicas que se diviertan con pelucas y toppers.]


Hair Loss Awareness Month - Leah

Leah B. @falloutgiirl

Hair Loss Awareness Month is such an important time for me to actively educate others on hair loss and its causes. I was 16 years old when my hair started falling out in clumps in the shower and I had no idea what was happening to me. I was scared because I didn’t know anything about hair loss or anyone who was going through the same thing as me. I felt alone.

I hope to help other girls who feel isolated in their experience by showing them that so many women have hair loss for a multitude of reasons, that lacking hair does not equate to lacking beauty, and sharing how there are so many different alternatives for hair (wigs, toppers, turbans, etc.).

I think it’s amazing that there is an entire month dedicated to hair loss awareness and I hope that this month and onward, we can empower each other through this experience that has taken so many women’s confidence.

 

What does Hair Loss Awareness Month mean to you? Let us know in the comments below!

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Dating with Hair loss: What if my wig comes off during sex?

I wear wigs: How do I tell a new partner about my hair loss?

What Do Guys Think of Wigs? Watch our interview with Brandon and Chris!

Dating and hooking up with hair loss can feel really nerve-wracking. What if my wig comes off during sex? How do I talk to my boyfriend or girlfriend about my wigs? When should you tell a date about your hair loss?

We asked men and women what they thought about dating women with hair loss who wear wigs. The answers might surprise you.

 

Some background on me: the first time I ever considered talking to a guy I was dating about my hair loss, it wasn't because of an inopportune wig slip or even because they had noticed my thinning hair.

This was a few years before all that. We were in college. He called me as I left work and when I answered, I heard him laughing.

“What is it?” I asked.

“You’ll never guess where I just found another one of your hairs!”

It had been wrapped around his big toe in a bow, like a tiny gift.

The hairs had become a running joke between us: where would we find Chelsea’s hair next? I laughed, but my stomach was a knot. I was beginning to really suspect that my hair was thinning at age 21 and I had no idea how to share this with him. It felt too serious and big to share with someone I’d only been dating a few months and ultimately the relationship ended before I ever had the chance.


Dating with hair loss: Chris and Chelsea
Chris and Chelsea

Fast forward five years later and I wasn’t given the option whether or not to tell my partner; I was thrown in the deep end when I was finally diagnosed with Alopecia at 26. I’d like to tell you I was always as confident as I am now, telling everyone and their Grandma in the same subway car as me that I have medical hair loss and wear wigs. The truth is, dating with Alopecia, I became convinced that I was completely unlovable and undesirable. But funnily enough, my partner didn’t even bat an eye. “It wasn’t about me,” Chris, 28, tells me. “I just wanted you to be happy and I was there for you while you figured it all out. If that meant wearing wigs, cool. If that meant doing nothing, great.”

Of course, Chris and I have been together for almost four years now. Our circumstances are different from someone who is new to navigating dating and hooking up with hair loss. So the question is, when should you tell a new prospect about your hair? And how should you do it?

 

"I'd just want her to tell me whenever she's ready and feels comfortable."


Leah, 23, says she wouldn’t mind when a new partner tells her about their hair loss, as long as it’s a more casual and, hopefully, early-on conversation. “Being open is important and I really don’t see it as a taboo,” she explains.  “I think I’d be shocked initially as it’s not something you’d be expecting, but I don’t think it’d ever be a problem. If you like someone, you like someone, no matter what.”

In my own experience, your reaction to any situation is going to set the standard for how someone responds to you. If you communicate your hair loss and the fact that you wear wigs or toppers in a way that’s light and breezy, in the same tone you’d tell them you have an Aunt that lives upstate, most people will receive the information that way, too. 

That said, no one can deny that admitting a perceived flaw on a first date can be daunting, but being vulnerable allows you to grow closer. “I’d feel pretty special because if she’s sharing that with me, she must see me as a potential partner she can trust,” says Brandon, 24. “I’d just want her to tell me whenever she’s ready and feels comfortable.” 

Whenever you decide to tell someone about your hair loss, anyone worth dating will understand that it’s an important part of who you are that you’re trusting them with. Ecmari, 35, says that whoever she’s dating shouldn’t feel the need to rush sharing it either. “I think it’s very controversial because some people might feel like she’s hiding it or lying, but at the end of the day she should have to share this information only when she wants to.”


Dating with hair loss: when should you tell your date about your hair

So, let’s say you’re dating someone more casually, or you’re not at a point where you want to tell them about your hair, and you’re in bed. Of course, we have the options of securing our hairpieces with wig grips, adhesives, bobby pins, combs, and clips. But even the best laid plans come apart sometimes. So, how should you react if your hairpiece comes off unexpectedly while you’re having sex with a partner who doesn’t know about your hair loss?

In my experience, it’s better to just shrug it off. At the end of the day, you can’t let a potential wig slip keep you from pursuing your happiness and having a fulfilling love life.  “My reaction would be her reaction,” says Brandon. “I would just want her to be comfortable and if she’s okay, then I’m okay.” The truth is that if the worst happens and your wig comes off, you have two options: let a little wig slip ruin a good time, or laugh it off and keep it moving. If you’re not in a position where you’d feel comfortable to be yourself with a potential partner, they don’t deserve to be in bed with you.

 

"To be frank, I have better things to be thinking about at that moment."

 

“I honestly see your wigs as something you wear now, like an accessory. If it comes off it’s kind of just the same thing as if something else you’re wearing comes off. Not a big deal and, to be frank, I’ve got better things to be thinking about at that moment,” says Chris. When I first started wearing wigs, I felt extremely conscious of them and how my hair looked when I was just trying to lose myself in an intimate moment, and I know a lot of other women with hair loss feel the same. The truth is most people don’t notice the things we do about our hair.

In fact, having a sense of humor in bed with your wigs can bring surprising tenderness, even in a potentially awkward situation. “I think I’d definitely be surprised [if her wig came off during sex],” says Ecmari. “However, I’d probably just try and collect myself and offer to help her fix it, if she’d allow me or want me to!” Accidents happen and a partner who cares about you will make sure your comfort and happiness comes first.

Dating with hair loss: what if your wig comes off during sex

But what if the worst does happen and someone does have a bad reaction to your hair loss and wearing hair?

“If someone does think it’s a problem, they’re probably just a real jerk,” says Brandon.

I couldn’t agree more. Personally, I think of my hair loss as a kind of jerkwad detector superpower. If I tell someone I have hair loss and they react badly, that’s on them. People can be beautiful with thin hair, no hair, fake hair. The things that truly matter in a relationship transcend the physical. Even if I weren’t losing my hair, would I really want to be with someone that wouldn’t love me and find me attractive if my appearance were to change?


Dating with hair loss: what if a guy doesn't like my wig

In fact, when asked what they thought of dating someone whose hair and appearance changed regularly with different hairpieces, everyone agreed this sounded like a fun and exciting prospect versus it being a turn-off. “That sounds really cool,” says Brandon. “I bet it would be fun for a night out. If she feels good and she’s rocking it, then that’s what matters!”

 

"We're together because of who we are, not just because of what we look like."

 

When I was diagnosed with Alopecia and had to face the reality that one day I will be completely bald, I thought this would push my partner away. For many women, our hair is synonymous with our desirability and femininity. In actuality, my hair loss brought us closer. “I think it made us both realize that our relationship goes beyond just the superficial,“ says Chris. “We’re together because of who we are, not just because of what we look like.”

Dating with hair loss

 

I’ll admit I still get nervous broaching new subjects and stages of my hair loss journey with him. When I recently joked that one day I’d have to shave my head, I was apprehensive to see his reaction. Chris just shrugged his shoulders and said, “Cool, like Amber Rose.” Then went back to scrolling through his phone.

Dating with hair loss may not feel as simple as it would without it, but it certainly shouldn't hold you back. The next time you catch yourself wondering what if your wig comes off during sex, or whether the guy you're dating would even care about your hair loss, it's worth just asking them what they think. You never know how someone will react and who they really are unless you give them the opportunity to show you — and you might be pleasantly surprised.

 

Dating with hair loss: what men and women really think
(From Top Left, Clockwise: Chris, Chelsea, Ecmari, Leah, and Brandon)

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Hairstyles for Your Hair Topper: Four Ways to Blend Your Hair with Your Topper for a Natural Hairline

Hairstyles for Your Hair Topper: Four Ways to Blend Your Hair with Your Topper for a Natural Hairline

Struggling to blend and style your topper so that it looks natural? Looking for hairstyles for your topper to up your blend game? Don’t worry, I’ve been there.

When I received my first ever topper in the mail, I was more excited than the time my parents got me a My Little Pony doll for Christmas. I immediately tore into the packaging and removed it from the box. I’d been diagnosed with Androgenic Alopecia a few months prior and I’d saved up for this topper for months. The hair was incredible, soft and thick, and it matched my own copper shade perfectly. I placed the topper on my head, expecting to look like I had before my hair loss had ever started, and stepped toward my bedroom mirror. The euphoric feelings melted into sadness, embarrassment, frustration. It looked like I’d plucked someone else’s hair off their head, like a hat, and placed it jauntily on my own. In other words, super fake. The hairline looked completely unrealistic and I had no idea how to fix it.

What I didn’t know then was that most silk top hairpieces require some element of styling and blending at the hairline. This is the reason we recommend buying toppers in a similar shade to your own, so that you can utilize your own hairline to create a perfect blend and hide that transition between your topper and your own hair underneath. It took practice for me to figure out what placements, partings, and styles worked for me and my topper. I’m going to save you that trouble of figuring out how to blend your topper by showing you four perfect hairstyles for blending your topper's hairline, creating an undetectable transition, and looking super freaking cute. Keep reading!

 

Placing and Parting Your Topper

How to place and part your hair topper

I don’t have the fullest natural hairline due to my hair loss, so I prefer a side parting with my toppers to get the most volume out of my own hair to blend into the hair of the topper. For this same reason, I also prefer to place my topper very close to my own hairline underneath so that the transition from my own hair into the topper isn’t as obvious. If you have a fuller hairline, you can also place your topper further back for these styles.

How to place and part your hair topper
How to place and part your hair topper

Style One: Dutch Braided Topper


How to dutch braid your hair topper

To start your dutch braid on your topper, you’ll want to take a section of hair, blending a little bit of your own hair at your hairline with the topper hair. You’ll then split that section into three parts and do one round of a normal three-part braid, crossing the parts of hair under each other. Once you’ve started the braid, on the next step, you’ll begin adding sections of your own hair and the topper hair.

How to dutch braid your hair topper

 

Take a small section of hair from the front and pinch it together with the front part of the braid then braid it under once. Next, take a small section of hair from behind the braid, most likely from your topper, and pinch it with the furthest back section of the braid. Braid that section under once.

How to dutch braid your hair topper

Each time you move one section under, you should be switching from front to back where you take sections of hair, ensuring you only cross each section when new hair is added. Braid across the hairline until you’ve reached your temple or your ear, and finish off the braid as you normally would, without adding any more hair.

How to dutch braid your hair topper

When you’ve finished the braid, wrap it around your head and pin it in place. Once the braid is pinned, you can leave it as is or gently pull on it to create more volume, as desired.

How to dutch braid your hair topper
How to dutch braid your hair topper

 

 

Style Two: Twisted Topper

How to french twist your topper

To start off your twist, you first need to take a small section of hair, making sure there is a blend of your own hair and the hair of the topper. Take that section and divide it into two parts. Twist the two parts around each other once in the direction away from your hairline.

How to french twist your topper

Next, take a small piece of hair from your hairline and add it to the front section of the twist. Twist that around the other section, away from your hairline once again.

How to french twist your topper
How to french twist your topper

Continuing the twist, you will take another small section of hair and add it to the new front part of the twist. Twist that section back away from the face. Continue this process until you reach your temple or ear. If you would like the twist to wrap around your head, you can just turn the end of the twist into a rope, not adding any extra hair.

How to french twist your topper

Pin the twist into place. Once you’ve pinned it, you can leave it as is or gently pull on it to create more volume, as desired.

How to french twist your topper
How to french twist your topper

 

 

Style Three: Dutch Fishtail Braided Topper

How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper

To begin your dutch fishtail braid, you first need to take a small section of hair, making sure there is a blend of your own hair and the hair of the topper. Take that section and divide it into two parts. Cross those parts over each other, creating a little X at the root.

How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper

Next, take a small piece of hair from your hairline and a small part of the front section of the braid. Pinch those two parts together and cross them under the front section and add them to the back section of the braid.

How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper

Continuing the braid, take a small piece of hair from behind the braid and a small part of the back section. Pinch the two parts together and cross them under the back section of the braid, adding them to the front section. Continue doing this, swapping sides each time, until you reach the temple or ear.

How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper

 

Once you reach the temple or ear, you can either pin the braid as is or finish it by braiding it without adding any hair. To do this, you just take a small part of each section of the braid and cross it under, adding it to the opposite section until there’s no more hair left. Once the braid is pinned, you can either pull gently on it to give it more volume, or leave as is.

How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper
How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper
How to dutch fishtail braid your hair topper

 

 

Style Four: Pull-Through Braided Topper

 

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Before you begin this style, make sure you have a few small plastic hair elastics. They can be any color you prefer. I like clear ones as they’re not as noticeable once the style is complete.

To start, you first need to take a small section of hair, making sure there is a blend of your own hair and the hair of the topper. Take that section and secure it with an elastic, about an inch to an inch and a half from the root of it. Then take that small ponytail and secure it out of the way.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Next, leading on from the first, take a second section of hair, a blend of your own hair and the topper hair, and secure it with an elastic band. Make sure you’re not securing the band too high or too low on the ponytail so that the braid will be evenly spaced when complete.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Unpin the first ponytail and divide the hair into two equal sections. Take those two sections and wrap them around the second ponytail, so that it’s sitting in the middle.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Pin the second ponytail out of the way and take the two sections of the first ponytail and add them into a new section of hair from your own hair and your topper. Secure this third ponytail with an elastic band.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Repeat the process with the second ponytail and continue until you’ve reached your desired placement. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band. Wrap the braid around your head tautly and pin it in place.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

Once the braid is secured, you can leave it as is or you can pull on the braid gently to create more volume. This not only hides the transition between your hair and the topper even more flawlessly, but it also will hide the elastic bands.

How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper
How to do a pull-through braid on a hair topper

 

There you have it! Four hairstyles to blend your hair topper. Which style was your favorite? Do you have a preferred style for those days you can’t be bothered to blend? Let us know in the comments below!

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Three Easy Ways to Style Your Hair Underneath Your Wig, Plus Wig Application Tips & Tricks

Three Easy Ways to Style Your Hair Underneath Your Wig, Plus Wig Application Tips & Tricks

When you’re new to wearing hairpieces, finding the right way to wear your own hair underneath your wig can be a little confusing and daunting. The good news is that there is no right way! As long as you’re comfortable and your wig is sitting flat without any bumps or raises, you’re good to go.

To help you figure out what’s right for you, we’ve rounded up three no-skills-required styles for you to wear your wig all-day, every day with the confidence and comfort you deserve! Now, folks, I’m gonna be honest. I’m the resident lazy girl when it comes to wigs. So, if you’re like me and you don’t like spending a lot of time on your hair (that’s what the wig is for, right?) then you will love these easy-peasy styles and wig application tips.

 

Style One: Braids

This is the only style in this series that requires some minimal skill because you will be doing a basic three-strand braid. If you don’t know how to braid, there are loads of tutorials around the internet, or you can keep scrolling for our other basic styles below.

First, you’ll want to brush through your hair and remove any tangles. Then, part your hair down the middle into two sections. With the first section, divide the hair equally into three parts and, holding the hair taught, braid them tightly together. When the braid is complete, take the braid and wrap it firmly around the bottom of your head where the nape of your neck begins, toward the opposite side the braid is on. Use a bobby pin to secure the braid. It should be sitting flush against the back of your head. If it’s too loose, unpin it and pull it a bit tighter. It should be comfortable and not cause any pulling or irritation.



Repeat the same process with the second second of hair, braiding it and pinning it to the opposite side of your head. The braids should cross over slightly, making an X shape.



Once that is complete, you can put on your favorite wig grip or just rock your wig as is!

 

 

Style Two: Twists

For this style, you’ll first want to brush through your hair and divide it into two parts. Take one part and begin twisting the hair around itself, starting from the top and twisting downward, creating a small rope. I like to twist the hair in the direction away from my face, but the style can work either way. The most important part is making sure the twist is nice and taut, with none of the hairs loose or moving apart from one another.



Once you have twisted this section of hair, hold the bottom of the twist firmly and place it diagonally across the back of your head toward the opposite temple. Secure the twist with a bobby pin. The twist should be sitting flush against the back of the head, but not so tightly that it’s causing you discomfort.



Repeat this process on the second section of hair and secure it with a bobby pin toward the opposite temple, crossing over the original twist. The twists should be placed over one another, creating an X shape.



Once you’ve completed and secured your twists, you can place your favorite wig grip on and you’re ready for your wig!

 

 

Style Three: Low Bun

To prepare your hair for your low bun style, brush the hair through and smooth it back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Once you’ve gotten rid of any tangles and laid down any flyaways, hold the ponytail firmly.



Take a hair tie and wrap the ponytail around itself until you create a small bun. Secure with the hair tie. You can use whatever method you typically use to create the bun, but the objective is to make the bun as small and tight as possible so that it will not be visible when your wig is on, or create any bumps.



Once you’ve secured your low bun, you can place your wig grip so that it wraps around underneath the bun, or you can even place it over to flatten the bun against your head further and create a smooth silhouette for your wig.


 

 

Wig Application Basic Tips & Tricks

As your resident wig-wearing lazy girl, here are some tips and tricks for how I put on my wig and achieve a natural looking parting and hairline with minimal effort.


First, make sure your wig grip is properly in place. If you’re wearing a lace top wig, you should take a moment to make sure your parting will be aligned with the parting on your grip, should it have one like mine does. Next, take a Q-tip and a bit of rubbing alcohol, or a more gentle cleanser as needed, and clean the area of skin around your hairline where the lace of the wig will be placed. This is so the area will be free of grease or makeup and the wig glue will adhere better to your skin.


Once the area around your hairline is cleaned, place a pea-sized amount of your favorite wig glue on the other end of the Q-tip and spread it across the desired area. Use more or less as needed. Wait a few minutes for the glue to get tacky before applying your wig.



If you have a lace-top wig, you can take a moment here while you’re waiting for your wig glue to get tacky to create your natural parting. Take a light powder or concealer in a shade similar or slightly lighter than your skin tone and brush it lightly along the inside of your lace top, where your parting is. This will help reduce any visibility of the lace grid or your own hair underneath.



Once your wig glue is no longer wet and just tacky to the touch, you’re ready to put on your wig. Carefully place your wig on by tipping your head over and pulling your piece gently onto your head like a hat. Flip your head back and adjust the hairline so that the lace is placed against the glue and the hairline and parting are sitting where you would like them. Never adjust your wig by the lace or wefts, always use the ear tabs to avoid any damage to your piece.

Gently press the lace of the wig into the glue until it’s sitting flush against your skin, then take a soft headband or head scarf and wrap it around the lace area to keep it laying flat as it dries. Check the drying time on your wig glue, but I usually wait 10-20 minutes before removing the headband.

Once your wig glue is dry, remove the headband and very gently play around with the hairline and pull the hair upwards to give it a little volume. You can use a little product here, like a light gel for some hold, or even a hot comb, if you like a really voluminous hairline. I personally don’t mind a more natural, soft look, so I just use my hands to maneuver the hairline to where I like it.



And that’s it! You’re ready to rock your wig out in the real world!

Figuring out how you like to style and wear your wig is a process and there’s no one right way for everyone. What works for someone like me with thinner hair, might need to be modified for someone with thicker hair. Hopefully, with our beginner’s guide, you feel a few steps closer to finding what’s perfect for you.

How do you like to prepare your own hair for wearing your wig? What are your tips and tricks for a flawless wig application? Let us know in the comments below!

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Brand Spotlight: The Hair Mama releases two new budget-friendly wig lines, The Tease Wig and The Hat Switch Collections

Brand Spotlight: The Hair Mama releases two new budget-friendly wig lines, The Tease Wig and The Hat Switch Collections

The Hair Mama has blessed us all with not just one, but TWO new gorgeous lines of realistic human hair wigs. The best part about The Hair Mama’s Tease Wig and Hat Switch collections? They’re not only easy on the eyes ⁠— they’re easy on your wallet too! 


All price points for the new collections fall under $1,000, but they don’t skimp on the quality construction or the luxurious Hair Mama signature coloring you know and love. Learn more about the new collections below!

 

The Hat Switch ⁠— A Wig to Wear Under Hats for Summer


The Hair Mama Hat Switch in RenewThe Hair Mama Hat Switch in RenewThe Hair Mama Hat Switch in Renew


Just in time for summer, The Hair Mama’s Hat Switch collection of wigs are intended to be worn with all types of hats ⁠— think your favorite floppy sun hat by the pool or a classic baseball cap for a day out at the beach. 


The best part about these hat wigs is their unique cap construction which allows you to comfortably wear them underneath a hat, even in hotter weather. This is because the wigs are lower density and super lightweight with the exclusive Hair Mama leopard lace cap, making them not only adorable (who doesn’t love a pop of print?), but also ultra-breathable and light enough for all-day wear.


The Tease Wig ⁠— Wigs for Beginners and Experts Alike

 

The Hair Mama Tease Wig in Flirty MamaThe Hair Mama Tease Wig in Flirty MamaThe Hair Mama Tease Wig in Flirty MamaThe Hair Mama Tease Wig in Flirty Mama

 

We can see why The Hair Mama named her new collection The Tease Wig because we’re certainly being TEMPTED by the gorgeous selection of custom colors -- and the affordable prices, too. The Tease Wig comes with The Hair Mama’s signature detailed hairline, dusted knots, and an illusion lace top, along with an ear-to-ear customizable lace front. 


These budget-friendly lace top wigs are great for beginners and expert wearers alike; they have a 6x6 inch parting area, giving you more flexibility with the hair styles you can achieve. While these Brazilian grade Remy human hair pieces do come equipped with adjustable straps and a comfort fit band, sizes do run on the larger side for this collection, so make sure to note if you need a smaller size at check-out!


Make sure to check out these new collections, available on Silk or Lace now! They’re selling out fast!

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Human hair wig tips - human hair topper tips

Why Won't My Wig Fit Me? - Common Wig Questions We Get Asked

What do you need to know when you're new to wigs and toppers? We’ve got the answers, from how to know if your wig fits correctly to achieving a natural-looking hairline and parting with a topper.
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