Wigs have always held a special place in Black culture and self-expression. Amongst other traditional and popular Black hairstyles, wigs are a facet of creativity, expression, and empowerment in the Black hair space. For Black women, wigs can be a transitory protective style. They’re also fun and versatile, offering ample opportunities to switch up a look instantly; they're a quick fix for an at-home dye job gone wrong, a confidence booster for those experiencing hair loss or alopecia, and sometimes even a miracle worker. The possibilities are truly endless.
"Wigs used to be for grannies," says Hannah Ayegbusi, founder of Honeyhand, a styling studio specializing in wigs and sew-ins. "[In the past], you'd have to be in your 90s to be [seen] wearing a wig. But now, wigs are a fashion statement. It’s part of fashion now but before, it was only for older folks," says Ayegbusi. With so much information at our fingertips venturing into wig territory can feel overwhelming.
Wig and weave terminologies such as 360, weft, virgin, Remy, glueless, or French lace can have even the most chronically online person's head spinning. It’s important to break down the basics. To help, we've shared maintenance tips, wig types, and everything in between to help beginners transition from wig novice to buss down baddie.
Synthetic vs. Human Hair Wigs
One of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make when choosing a wig is whether to go down the synthetic or human hair route. When it comes to quality human hair wigs are the gold standard. Real human hair is used to make a wig unit that looks and feels natural. They offer versatility because they can be styled with heat and dyed.
However, they require more maintenance and can come with a high price tag. Human hair wigs are perfect for those who want to invest in a long-lasting, high-quality wig that can be styled however they want. Ethically, it's also important to research a wig company's credibility to understand how human hair is sourced.
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Synthetic wigs, on the other hand, are made from man-made fibers and mimic the look of human hair. They are more affordable than human hair wigs and come in various styles and colors. While they don’t typically last as long as human hair wigs (depending on how you treat them) synthetic wigs hold their style after washes so you don’t have to style them every day and you get more wear out of them.
When it comes to the price tag, synthetic wigs are usually the more affordable option, with prices ranging from around $25 to $200 depending on the vibe you’re going for (they are also widely accessible with some synthetic wigs available to purchase from Amazon). Human hair wigs are an entirely different story; these can start at $150 and go all the way up to £1,200 or more for customized units.
Check out brands like HoneyHand, Ruka Hair, and Gina Knight Wig Design, for human and synthetic hair wigs in European and natural coily textures. Whether you're looking for your first synthetic wig or have decided that human hair units are your only way of life these brands are doing it for the culture.
“It’s easy and harmless to try on a wig. There’s no damage to your actual hair,” says Ayegbusi. “But if you do decide to try, do your research. And if you’re going to invest, choose quality.”
Lace Front Wigs: HD vs. French Lace
Lace front wigs have become a go-to for many women who want an install with a natural-looking hairline and versatile styling options. But not all lace is created equal. Two common lace types are HD (high definition) lace and French lace-both offer unique benefits depending on the look you’re going for.
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- HD lace: HD lace is thin and made to blend with any skin tone. This makes it ideal for Black women who want an undetectable hairline and the most realistic look possible. HD lace is also extremely delicate so it requires gentle hands.
- French lace: French lace is thicker and more durable than HD lace, making it a great option for those looking for longevity from their wig. It’s still very natural-looking but may not melt into the skin like HD lace. If you’re new to wigs and want something that will last, French lace might be a better option while you’re getting the hang of application and care.
Achieving the "Buss Down" Wig Look
STEP BY STEP STRAIGHT 13x6 HD BUSS DOWN MIDDLE PART FRONTAL WIG TUTORIAL Ft. WESTKISS HAIR
If you’ve spent even a minute on social media or listened to any rap song, then you’ve probably heard the term “buss down”. It’s a sleek, bone-straight wig that lays flat and is usually worn with a middle part at ridiculously long, luxurious lengths by the girls. In 2017, Nicki Minaj gave us many things, but the meme of her boarding a private jet to Prague is forever cemented in our memories-not because of the luxury of it all, but because of the jet-black, 40-inch hair that swished in her wake. Since then, we’ve seen social media stars like Jayda Cheaves, a.k.a. Jayda Wayda, dubbed the queen of the middle part buss down.
The women in rap starter pack definitely includes a buss down (if you have the coins), because everyone from Cardi B to Ice Spice has been seen with their own take on the style.
To get the look you'll need a good wig and an immaculate application technique. If you’re a beginner a wig stylist will be essential:
- Choose a quality wig: To get a buss down look, go for a human hair lace front or full lace wig. The key is how natural the hairline and middle parting space appear, so lace is important here.
- Foundation: Before applying the wig, make sure your natural hair is as flat as possible-either braided tightly or slicked down with gel. A flat foundation is crucial for getting a laid look.
- Perfect your melt: "Melting" refers to the wig hairline being nearly invisible and melting your lace is basically the deciding factor in how natural your wig will look. Use adhesive or a wig band to lay your lace flat against your hairline.
“Wigs encourage confidence in Black women because hair is such a visual thing,” says Ayegbusi. “When they get a wig that doesn’t look like a wig, it boosts their confidence, whether it’s for a birthday party or just their 9-to-5 job. I’ve seen my creations do that for women.”
Wig Application Methods for Beginners
One of the most intimidating aspects of wigs is mastering the application process, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a breakdown of the most common methods:
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- Glueless: Glueless wigs come with adjustable straps and combs to secure them without the use of adhesive. This method is quick, easy, and great for daily wear. It’s also ideal for beginners who want to avoid the mess of glue or tape.
- Glue: Glue application is popular if you want to wear your wig for several days because it has a longer hold. A thin layer of bonding glue specifically made for wig application, such as the Got2B Glued Styling Gel ($6.99) and Freeze Blasting Spray ($6.99) is used along the hairline, and the lace is pressed into it. Use a blow dryer on cool to set the glue and a wig band to ensure the lace melts into your skin. This method requires lots of practice but it also ensures your wig stays in place. Incorrect application and removal of abrasive wig glue can cause damage to fragile hairlines and even hyperpigmentation along the forehead after prolonged use, so again, it's wise to seek professional help.
- Sew-in: If you want a semi-permanent option, sew-ins are another route. A closure or lace frontal can be sewn into your natural hair. Sew-ins are perfect if you want a more stable option without having to reapply the wig every day.
Afro Wigs: A Natural Choice
A new type of wig has attracted people’s attention recently, and that is afro hair wigs. This wig is sought after by many African American girls for its natural and fluffy advantages.
Afro wigs mimic the natural hair of African American girls. The wearers look like they are not wearing any wigs. It's perfect for an African American girl looking for a natural wig. You will find different types of afro wigs, such as lace front afro wigs, afro wigs with headbands, V part afro wigs, and so on.
In addition, there are various colorful afro wigs for you. You don’t have to take the risk of damaging your natural hair by bleach and dyeing your hair. Blonde afro wigs, auburn curly afro wigs, brown afro wigs, etc. No matter your darker or lighter skin tone, it will perfectly match you. Besides, it will create a gorgeous hair look for you.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Afro Wig:
- Material: Opt for human hair for a natural look and styling versatility.
- Length: A middle or short length is better for an afro wig, as too long hair will look too heavy.
- Color: Most afro hair wigs are natural black, but there are other options available.
- Wig construction: Choose between lace afro wigs and glueless lace wigs.
General Wig Maintenance Tips
To start with, wash, blow dry and condition your hair before installment. If you are going to apply the curly wigs and want a more natural look, you can co-wash your wig to define the curls. Put the hair under water in order to make sure it was saturated and then apply the conditioner. Rinse the wigs and then allow the wigs to air dry overnight.
Part out some hair on the top front of your head and leave them aside. There is no need to leave out that much. You can just tie them up or braid down the leave-out. Insert the clips into your hair. The clips in the wigs will grip well to kinky hair texture but if your hair is blown out or silkier texture then it's a good idea to brush your roots and then insert the clips.
Apply some olive oil hair polisher all over the leave-out hair to make sure that when you flatten your hair, they comes out nice and smooth. Flatten iron the front side of your head and brush down all of them to make sure that everything is nice and blended.
If you are accustomed to using wig cap, you can wear wig cap before installing the wig. You could leave some hair out or brush out your edges. Put the headband wig on and clip it up top and attach the bottom clips. Stick the velcro in the back of your hair around your head. Section your hair into two sections in horizontal way and attach the wig into the lower part.
Essential Wig Accessories:
- Wig grip: Secures your human hair wigs without clips, pins or glues.
- Wig caps: Create a protective barrier between the scalp and your wig.
- Wig clips: Special designed and attached for hair extension and wigs.
- Bobby pins: Hair accessory available when you want to keep your wigs in place and comfortable.
It’s not recommended to style your human hair wig when it’s wet and damp because the construction may be ruined and the wig will be damaged. When you wash and air-dry your human hair wig, you can put the wig on wig head stand or hold it with one fist. Detangle the wig with wide tooth comb and style it. Using wig head stand or wearing your wig on will be helpful in styling and you can dye customized and do anything to this wig.
In general, heat should be used as less as possible for a longer life span. When you style your human hair wig, it’s unavoidable to use heat appliances such as hair dryers, flat iron, hair straightener, hair crimper,curling iron. You can achieve different hairdos with human hair wigs and hair accessories like clip ins, scarfs, hair bobbles and headband.
Hair dye usually work on well with human hair wig while doesn’t take effect on synthetic wigs. You can dye your human hair wig to darken color and don’t try to make it brighter. Get a hair dye in any color you like at store and hair developer that can change your hair color.
Mix the dye and developer with plastic spoon in plastic bowl because metal ones will oxidize your dye and change the color. You can follow instructive guide or video to decide how much the proportion will be and how much you need for different length of human hair wig. Test the final color on hair strand and wait for some time.
Washing and Conditioning Your Wig:
- Detangle your human hair wig before washing.
- Apply special wig shampoo and spread it from the root to the tip while keep your wig in the shampoo water.
- Wig shampoo is designed for wigs because ordinary shampoo contains a lot of chemicals which will damage your wig texture.
- Tap your wig gently. Avoid stirring or dragging the wig in case of tangling and wrinkles.
- Apply special wig conditioner and spread the product in a downwards motion from the mid-shaft down to the ends with wide tooth comb or fingertips as well.
- Squeeze your wig gently to remove excessive water with a clean and dry towel.
- Mind not twisting or tangling.
- Comb your wig and let it air dry.
Different Wig Styles
Curls Queen U-part wig comes with different hairstyles and textures which allows you to change up your looks in just minutes without any complex wig install skills or techniques to make it natural and realistic even for the first time wig wearers. It is designed to be a READY-TO GO protective style in just minutes with no lace or no glue.
Curls Queen Versatile-Cap Wig is versatile cap wig so as it compare to headband wigs, it has an extra drawstring. If you are pursuing a bit more versatility than what the headband wigs offer you can do a lot of different styles with the versatile cap wigs there do be a drawstring on the back of it so you can do ponytails and stuff. The hair length range from 14 to 20 inches.
Top African American Human Hair Wigs
Looking for the best African American human hair wigs? With prices starting as low as $12.61 and over 3,000 orders combined, these picks are your go-to for that style-packed, zero fuss look. You might find yourself surprised how effortless a natural finish can be-talk about a quick pick with major bang for your buck.
Here is a quick guide to some popular options:
- Wondering if a budget-wise synthetic wig can feel real? Yes! Many come with lace fronts or full lace bases, which are handmade and hand-tied strand by strand for stealing the natural scalp look. These wigs are a solid choice for those wanting versatile parts and the ability to wear high ponytails without revealing product edges. The result? Synthetic wigs have come a long way and can be a budget-wise, stylish grab, especially the glueless types with breathable caps. While human hair wigs generally offer more styling options and feel softer, synthetic versions can be a crowd-pleaser for short-term use with great color-pop and texture.
- Ready for a natural-looking lace frontal wig with 150% density? These human hair wigs are an evergreen favorite when it comes to durability. With good care, many last for months to even a year or more. Choosing a top-shelf wig with natural textures ensures your style stays fresh and scene-stealer-worthy over time. Styling these wigs is zero fuss with the right approach-use minimal heat to keep them road-ready and soft touch. For curls, maintain moisture with hydrating products; straight wigs thrive with mild brushes. Store them on wig stands to keep shape and avoid tangling.
- A neat trick for an edgy look: this dirty hair lace wig blends style with an affordable price under $36.
- This affordable synthetic lace front wig is a grab-and-go style-packed option for black women seeking fuss-free wear.
- For silky straight look lovers, this shoulder-length bob wig mimics natural hair with soft touch and a fuss-free feel.
- Short curly pixie cut? This afro kinky curly wig with bangs gives a vibe-rich, style-savvy silhouette that’s a crowd fave.
- For a style-packed, natural finish, check out this 130% density HD transparent lace frontal wig.
- Afro kinky curly short wig with 100% natural Brazilian hair gives you a vibe-safe, style-savvy look.
- Cheap natural human hair wig from a reliable manufacturer, this is a stash boss for budget-hunters wanting a soft touch and natural vibes.
- Want a high-density, full lace wig that’s season-proof?
Caring for your wig
Keep your wig on a stand or in a silk/satin bag to maintain its shape and avoid frizz. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent damage or color fading.
