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Understanding Human Hair Wigs
What You Need To Know About Your New Hairdo
Human Hair Wig Education: Understanding Quality, Origin & Longevity
A Note on Hard Water
Hard water can damage both human hair and synthetic wigs over time. Mineral buildup may cause dryness, dullness, and tangling. If you live in Calgary or other areas with hard water, reviewing proper care guidelines is essential. Please refer to the Wig Care & Style section for detailed maintenance recommendations.
Why Choose Human Hair Wigs & Toppers?
Human hair wigs and toppers offer the most natural appearance, movement, and durability. When properly maintained, a high-quality human hair piece can last significantly longer than synthetic alternatives.
Longevity depends on:
- Frequency of wear
- Exposure to heat styling
- Daily handling
- Proper care routine
Excessive heat from straighteners or curling tools may damage the hair fiber. Always use professional-grade heat protectants and moderate temperatures when styling.
What Determines the Cost of Human Hair Wigs?
Several key factors influence pricing:
- Ethnic origin of the hair
- Hair quality (Remy vs non-Remy, grading, cuticle alignment)
- Virgin vs processed hair
Let’s examine each in more detail.
1. Ethnic Origin of Human Hair
Approximately 98% of commercially available human hair wigs are sourced from Asian regions (primarily Chinese and Indian hair). Premium European hair represents a much smaller percentage of the market due to its rarity.
European Human Hair
European hair is considered among the most refined and scarce types available. With intact cuticles and natural softness, it offers fluid movement and a very natural appearance.
Virgin European hair — meaning hair that has never been chemically treated — is extremely rare and commands premium pricing due to its limited supply and natural color variations.
Asian & Indian Human Hair
These hair types make up the majority of the global market.
- Indian hair: Typically finer, with natural body or slight wave
- Chinese hair: Naturally straight, stronger fiber structure, often used when lighter color processing is required.
Blending these hair types can create balance between softness, durability, and manageability.
Mongolian Human Hair
Mongolian hair shares similar fine texture qualities to European hair and is valued for its softness and natural appearance. Availability is limited, making it a premium option in some collections.
2. Quality of Hair: Remy vs Non-Remy
The term “Remy” refers to how the hair is collected and processed — specifically that cuticles remain aligned in one direction. Proper cuticle alignment reduces tangling and improves longevity.
Remy does not indicate grade or origin — it refers only to processing method.
Higher-grade hair typically maintains elasticity, smoothness, and consistent strand thickness, contributing to durability and natural appearance.
Human Hair Blends
Some modern collections combine premium Remy human hair with heat-friendly synthetic fiber. This blend offers:
- Natural movement from human hair
- Style memory from synthetic fiber
- Greater resistance to humidity
- Longer-lasting styling hold
Heat styling should not exceed 300°F for blended fibers.
Grey Human Hair Considerations
Grey human hair options vary in quality and origin.
- Processed grey human hair may require toning to prevent yellowing.
- Hand-selected grey strands increase cost due to labor-intensive sorting.
- Yak hair (animal fiber) is sometimes used for very short grey styles due to stiffness.
- Synthetic grey fibers offer convenience but may frizz with improper care.
What You Need To Know When Wearing a Hair System/Toppers
Alternative Human Hair Toppers & Wigs
Protecting Your Investment
A premium human hair wig or topper is an investment. Proper care and maintenance play a significant role in preserving its appearance, softness, and longevity.
Unlike natural hair, alternative human hair systems do not benefit from oils produced by the scalp. Over time, this can lead to dryness if moisture is not regularly restored.
Maintaining balanced hydration helps prevent dullness, brittleness, and premature breakage.
Human hair systems require three essential elements:
- Moisture – maintains elasticity and flexibility
- Lubrication – keeps hair soft, smooth, and manageable
- Protein support – helps strengthen weakened fibers
Maintaining Moisture & Shine
Lightweight, plant-based oils formulated for alternative human hair may help maintain softness and manageability when used sparingly.
Recommended options include:
- Argan Oil – helps reduce frizz and enhance shine
- Almond Oil – lightweight hydration without heaviness
- Jojoba Oil – closely mimics natural scalp oils
- Coconut Oil – deep conditioning treatment when prior to wash
- Olive Oil – provides nourishment and elasticity support
A small amount should be applied from mid-length to ends, avoiding the base or root area (1 inch away).
Oils may also be used as a pre-wash conditioning treatment prior to shampooing.
Daily Care Recommendations
After washing:
- Gently towel dry the hair
- Apply a small amount of leave-in moisture product
- Allow hair to air dry whenever possible
- Avoid excessive heat styling or follow heat instructions
Products specifically formulated for human hair wigs and toppers should always be used, as traditional haircare products may shorten the lifespan of alternative hair systems.
Understanding Hair Texture Differences
Human hair types vary primarily in strand diameter (denier) and texture:
- Chinese Hair: stronger fiber structure with naturally straight texture (not necessarily coarse hair, there are fine Chinese hair as well)
- Indian Hair: medium density with natural body or wave
- European Hair: finer texture with lightweight movement but greater sensitivity to processing
Each hair type offers unique advantages depending on styling preferences and desired realism.
Review instructions and videos under the Care & Style Tab
Air Dry Or Blow Dry Your Human Hair Wig
Embrace Versatility: Air Drying vs. Blow Drying Human Hair Wigs
Human hair wigs have revolutionized the world of hairstyling, allowing us to effortlessly switch up our looks and enhance our natural beauty. When it comes to caring for and styling these wigs, two popular methods stand out: air drying and blow drying.
For everyday wear, allowing the hair to dry naturally often provides the most effortless and natural-looking result
Embracing the Natural Beauty of Air Drying
Air drying your human hair wig can be a game-changer, as it allows the hair to dry naturally without the need for heat or excessive manipulation. Below you will see the key benefits of Air Drying
Preserving Natural Wave and Movement
Wigs made from a blend of Indian and Chinese hair provide a perfect balance, resulting in a beautifully natural wave and movement. By air drying, you maintain and enhance these features, giving your wig a realistic and authentic look.
Gentle Treatment for Longevity
Air drying eliminates the potential damage caused by excessive heat from blow dryers. By opting for this method, you ensure the longevity of your wig, as it avoids the risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Ease and Convenience
Air drying is incredibly simple and convenient. After washing your wig, gently pat it with a towel to remove excess moisture, then lay it flat on a wig stand or clean towel to dry naturally. This method requires minimal effort, allowing you to multitask while your wig dries.
Achieving a Polished Look with Blow Drying
While air drying maintains the wig's natural beauty, blow drying offers a different set of advantages. When you desire a smooth and polished appearance, here's why blow drying can be your go-to choice
Controlled heat styling can safely create smoother or more structured styles when performed correctly.
- Use medium heat settings
- Apply a heat protectant
- Avoid excessive tension during drying
Smooth and Sleek Results
Blow drying human hair wigs, especially those made with the Indian and Chinese blend, can help you achieve a polished look. By using a medium heat setting, you can effortlessly straighten the hair, reducing any frizz or fly-aways.
Time Efficiency
Compared to air drying, blow drying is a quicker method. If you're in a rush or have a special occasion, using a blow dryer can save you time without compromising the overall quality and style of your wig.
Versatile Styling
Blow drying gives you the freedom to experiment with different hairstyles. By using a round brush or other styling tools, you can create volume, add curls, or straighten the hair, providing endless possibilities to change up your look easily.
How To Avoid Frizz & Tangle
Tangle
Even the best quality human hair wig can tangle and look frizzy if not being cared for it properly.
Number one reason is if the wrong products are being used. Using human hair shampoo & conditioner that you use for your own hair, may not be the right product for your wig.
Products designed for Alternative human Hair have more oils (to keep hair moist) and no chemicals.
Remember, our scalp produce natural oils to keep our hair moisturized, however, the wigs do not get oils form our scalp, therefore, it is important to use products that will keep your investment lasting long.
It is also recommended to use a conditioning leave-in spray (daily) or oil mist. When the hair dries out, it tangles and will become frizzy.
Hair Can tangle at the back of the neck
Heat and sweat can create tangles at the nape of your neck. While sweating is unavoidable at times, there are things that can add to the tangles around the nape area.
High collars, wool turtlenecks, and heavy fabrics can all encourage matting and tangling. Wear silky, linen, or light cotton fabrics will to reduce tangling.
Also avoid using moisturizing creams on your neck as that will also make hair around the nape to tangle
Using too much heat on your Human Hair wig
While it is okay to use heat, is important to follow instructions on the amount of heat you use.
How often you use hair dryers, hot rollers, flat irons, curling irons, on your human hair wig can determine the life span of your investment
Heat dries out the hair strands and can cause tangling, frizz, and even breakage. When you must use heat, make sure to use heat protectant first and blow dry balm.
You may allow your human hair wig to air dry 80% then smooth it out on a low to medium heat.
The ideal temperature when styling a human hair wig is no higher than 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Longevity of Human Hair Wigs
Human hair wigs that are well cared for can last a couple of years and can even be restyled, colored and trimmed to freshen up the look
Split Ends
If you are constantly using hot tools such as curling irons or straighteners, then these heat stylers can be culprits for split ends.
The only way you can actually get rid of split ends is by cutting them off. Getting your wigs trimmed by a professional hairstylist is the easiest way to get rid of split ends.
MAKE SURE TO REVIEW INFORMATION ON UNDER "WIG CARE AND STYLE"
Wigs Caps & Bases
Wigs & Topper Bases
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
Wig Cap Types & Sizes
Wigs and Toppers come with various types of bases. Each base type can have a natural look. How natural each base will look, it will depend on the individual hair loss.
In case of toppers, the base type can make a significant difference in how well the topper blends with your natural hair and scalp.
Here are some common base types and t
Wigs and Toppers come with various types of bases. Each base type can have a natural look. How natural each base will look, it will depend on the individual hair loss.
In case of toppers, the base type can make a significant difference in how well the topper blends with your natural hair and scalp.
Here are some common base types and their benefits:
Lace Front:
Lace front toppers have a fine, sheer lace material at the front edge, which creates a natural-looking hairline. This type of base allows for the hair to be styled away from the face (works best for those with no hairline hair)
Monofilament:
Monofilament bases are made of a thin, breathable material that resembles the scalp. They provide a natural parting and allow for multi-directional styling.
Silicone:
Silicone bases offer a secure fit and are ideal for those with minimal to no hair underneath. They provide a smooth surface that adheres well to the scalp.
Integration:
Integration bases feature openings or gaps through which your natural hair can be pulled to blend with the topper, creating a seamless look.
Skin-like:
Skin-like bases mimic the appearance of the scalp and are ideal for those with little to no hair. They provide a realistic scalp appearance and a secure fit.
Choosing the right base type depends on your level of hair loss, comfort preferences, and styling needs.
During your appointment, we can determine the best base type for you.
NOTE: Regardless of base type, nothing is ever 100% perfect, however, we can make things work!
Wig Cap Types & Sizes
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
Wig Cap Types & Sizes
Wig Base Sizes
Limited Wig styles might be offered in a Petite or Large Size. In other words, a wig style that you may like, may only be available in Average size.
Since most individuals have an average head size, the most prevalent wig cap size is Average.
When purchasing a ready-made wig, it's common to encounter some fitting problems.
Wig Base Sizes
Limited Wig styles might be offered in a Petite or Large Size. In other words, a wig style that you may like, may only be available in Average size.
Since most individuals have an average head size, the most prevalent wig cap size is Average.
When purchasing a ready-made wig, it's common to encounter some fitting problems. These issues can often be resolved by modifying the wig.
Head Measurements and Shape
While head measurements help determine wig size, head shape plays an equally important role in achieving a proper fit.
Regardless of whether a client measures Petite, Average, or Large, head shapes vary — including oval, elongated, round, or flatter profiles. The shape of the head often influences how naturally a wig cap molds and sits.
An important factor is the occipital bone (the back of the head). Clients with a more pronounced curve typically experience a secure fit, while those with a flatter back may find wigs less stable.
In such cases, a discreet adjustment — such as adding a small clip at the nape — can provide additional support and ensure a comfortable, secure fit.
For most clients, however, modern wig constructions fit securely without modification.
Personal comfort
While it is necessary to wear a wig that fits, some people may feel more comfortable with a slightly looser or tighter one.
Adjustability
All wigs offer adjustable features, like straps or hooks. These options make small modifications possible to achieve a better fit.
Hand-Tied Wig Cap Modification
Hand-tied wigs can be adjusted easily if there is excess cap material at the back.
Padding and Cushioning
For slightly larger wigs, adding padding materials to some areas under the cap can enhance the fit and the overall appearance.
When Head Size Measurements
Fall Between Two Sizes
Normally, we recommend getting the larger one.
Slightly larger wigs can be modified and adjusted more easily, and they will feel more comfortable on your head.
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
The porosity of a human hair wig can affect how color penetrates the hair, similar to natural hair. Here's how different porosities can impact the coloring process:
Low Porosity Wigs:
Wigs with low porosity have a tightly closed cuticle layer, which can make it challenging for color to penetrate evenly. It may require longer processing ti
The porosity of a human hair wig can affect how color penetrates the hair, similar to natural hair. Here's how different porosities can impact the coloring process:
Low Porosity Wigs:
Wigs with low porosity have a tightly closed cuticle layer, which can make it challenging for color to penetrate evenly. It may require longer processing times or the use of heat to help open the cuticle and allow the color to penetrate more effectively.
High Porosity Wigs:
Wigs with high porosity have a more open cuticle layer, which can cause color to penetrate quickly but also fade faster. It may be necessary to monitor the coloring process closely to prevent over-processing and damage.
Medium Porosity Wigs:
Wigs with medium porosity have a balanced cuticle layer, making them more receptive to color. They typically require standard processing times and techniques for optimal color penetration and longevity.
Understanding the porosity of your human hair wig can help you choose the right coloring products and techniques to achieve the desired result.
A consultation with a professional wig stylist or colorist can provide personalized recommendations based on your wig's porosity and your coloring goals.
NOTE:
A color test should always be done at the nape area first before proceeding with the full color.
Styling Your Wig Or Topper
Hair Density In Wigs & Toppers
Human Hair Wigs & Toppers Coloring
The wig or topper that you decide to purchase may not be the exact color as your hair is, but with Human Hair systems, a Professional Hair Stylist can color match your color to the topper or vice versa.
Whether you are looking for a new look, or simply want to enhance your natural beauty, you can achieve that with a beautiful Topper or a new full Wig.
Hair Density In Wigs & Toppers
Hair Density In Wigs & Toppers
Hair Density In Wigs & Toppers
A medium/light density hair system is often favored for their natural appearance.
They strike a balance between being too thin, which can look unnatural, and being too thick, which can look overly voluminous. Medium-Light density hair systems create a realistic look that closely resembles natural hair, making them a popular choice for man
A medium/light density hair system is often favored for their natural appearance.
They strike a balance between being too thin, which can look unnatural, and being too thick, which can look overly voluminous. Medium-Light density hair systems create a realistic look that closely resembles natural hair, making them a popular choice for many individuals.
The ready to wear High-end Wigs & Toppers are mostly available in Medium-Light density and this is to offer a most natural look.
