Why I Prefer Wigs Over Hair Toppers & How To Avoid Damage To Your Hair
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- Опубліковано 27 сер 2024
- In this video I review ten reasons for why I prefer wigs over hair toppers. I also describe traction alopecia and what causes it, show you my androgenic and traction alopecia, and provide six tips for preventing damage to your hair. In addition, I discuss my history of wearing toppers (for over a decade) and provide a few pros for wearing toppers. Lastly, I show you two wigs that are wonderful for styling into ponytails and go over how I apply Zara Lite by Jon Renau and style it into a ponytail.
** Wigs shown in this video include Drive by Ellen Wille, Zara Lite by Jon Renau, and Mesmerized by Raquel Welch.
** Links to previous reviews:
1. Drive by Ellen Wille in 830.27.6, Chocolate Rooted, • Drive by Ellen Wille i...
2. Zara Lite by Jon Renau in FS6/30/27, Toffee Truffle, • Zara Lite by Jon Renau...
3. Mesmerized by Raquel Welch in RL8/12SS, Iced Mocha, • Mesmerized by Raquel W...
My head measurements are:
Circumference 22”
Ear to ear 12.25”
Forehead to nape 14.5”
Hairline to bottom of chin 7.25”
I can be reached at: micheleswigreviews@gmail.com
Follow me on Instagram: @micheleswigreviews
#hairtoppers #tractionalopecia #wigstyling
fiinaly someone who is being honest abou toppers !
Thanks so much!😀❤
So true! The rest of the story!
Thank you so much for this video! This is my 3rd attempt at helper hair, my first was nearly 10 years ago. Both previous times I gave up but I'm hoping not to give up this time. I recently purchased a HH topper from Lauren Ashtyn and it's beautiful but I struggle so much to blend it with my bio hair and they acted like it was effortless. You've helped validate what I am experiencing and I'm so appreciative. I've purchased 2 wigs but have yet to find "the one". I tend to run hot so it's going to take a miracle for me to deal with a wig during these Georgia summers. Anyway - thanks for your videos. They make a difference. They matter.
Thanks so much for your kind words, Judy!😀 Your encouraging comments made my day - this is exactly why I make these videos!! It's absolutely true, neither wigs nor toppers are perfect. It takes time to get used to them and learn how to work with them so that you like the result. I hope you will not give up. I'm certain that you can find a topper or wig that works for you (maybe you already have!). I'm not familiar with Lauren Ashtyn toppers. Best of luck on your alternative hair journey!❤
I forgot to share a styling trick that helps human hair last longer. Instead of a curling iron, wet the hair and roll it up on socks. I tethered mine with rubber bands. Wrap in a scarf and place in a heating pad on low. Go to bed and the next day beautiful curls. I practiced and it works!!! At the time a 22 inch wig I confiscated all my husbands socks. LOL!! When I told him I ordered a topper he asked if he’s going to lose his socks. LOL!! You can’t make this stuff up, right?
Sounds like a great trick!👍🏻 Thanks for sharing!💖
So helpful and honest. I really appreciate your candor and wealth of experience. Thanks!
You're very welcome - I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful!☺ Thanks for your kind words, Shari!💖
I got a topper a few days ago and already came to the conclusion that a wig would be much better for me! Thank you so much for taking the time to educate us! You are awesome! Just ordered my Cameron Lite by Jon Renau on Almondine color and hope to love it!
I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful!😀 Cameron Lite in Almondine is a beautiful choice!👏Hope you love it when you get it!💖
I began wearing wigs a year ago. I’m so impressed by Jon Renau lite wigs. The ear tabs are wonderful, and they don’t feel like a hat. I just wish there were more styles, and they lasted longer. Thanks for all your info!
You are so welcome!😀❤️ I agree, I love Zara Lite too and find it to be very comfortable. If only it were less expensive or lasted longer...
Amazing video! I had no clue toppers can be so complicated...I am just staring to look into wigs and toppers. No I know what I need, Zara light is so natural. Thank you for sharing an honest video about hair loss struggles and solutions!
You're very welcome, I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful!😊 I hope you love Zara Lite, if you get her!💖
I just discovered your channel. I love your delivery and calming approach to what for many of us is devastating.
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here!😀Thanks for your kind words!💖
So helpful! So many useful tips. I also like wigs better than toppers because of the back coverage a topper doesn't give. but one thing I can't tolerate is the nape & the heat it produces on a wig. I love that toppers give you that air conditioning on the lower part of your scalp haha, where a wig is sooo hot especially when you're past 50. So I have a really nice wig I recently purchased that I am in the process of cutting off the lower third & using it as a topper. Kind of like the Top Full you mentioned. This way I will have the coverage I want on top & back without the hot nape which makes me very hot. That way I will only have the clips on the very bottom of the wig for security. Wish me luck, I am watching many videos on how to do this process :)
Thanks so much, Mary!😀 Yes, I definitely wish you luck with your project!👍 I hope it turns out well. I have heard about that but have not tried it myself. It sounds like a good idea!💡 I'm past 50 too. Sometimes, if an extended nape is too much for me, I cut it in half lengthwise (with the JR Lite collection) and remove the silicone at the nape. I feel like that makes the wig lighter and cooler. Let me know how it turns out!💖
There is the Milano top grip that can help. You clip the front part of the topper clips to the top grip. Toppers are great for the summer. I like to wear wigs in the winter.
Hi Gillian! I'm so sorry for my delay in responding. Yes, I mentioned something similar - the clipless toppers that are worn with a wig grip - in my video and discussed why I personally have not been tempted to try them. Nevertheless, a topper grip could definitely help protect your bio hair and might be a great solution if you love wearing toppers and don't style them into updos. I'm so glad you have a solution that works well for you!💖
You make those wigs look so good! I'm watching you on a huge screen, I just saw you put on a wig, and then it magically became part of you! Holy smokes! I see why you love your new wig options. That was some crazy voodoo magic!
Also, thank you very much for your list of cons. Many of those things I've wondered about (texture, weather, wind), and some I have been experiencing. The clips have already been very irritating for me. I may try to hack my toppers and add an elastic headband so I can get some comfortable use out of them. Thank you. You probably saved me from some unnecessary pain and additional hairloss.
Thanks so much for your kind words!😊 It's definitely not any kind of magic... just good quality wigs! I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful. Hope the elastic headband is a good solution for you!💖
Hi Michele! That was very thorough, and I can relate to every single point, or step along the way. In the interest of simplicity, I’ve also turned to wigs.
Just want to point out here, for those interested in full coverage toppers, Jon Renaus Top Full, is the No-lace version of the new Top Coverage that you mentioned.
Thank you for such in-depth information!
Thanks so much Cheryl!😀 I love your "this is the rest of the story" comment too!👍 I do understand that some people prefer toppers and if they are cautious and avoid the mistakes I made, then I think toppers can be a good solution. Thanks for mentioning the Top Full topper. I had not looked at that one because it doesn't have the lace front. I really appreciate your comments! Thanks for watching!💖
Thank you!! You helped me feel good about floating the idea of both worlds. Excellent point, hair loss is systemic. My eyelashes, eyebrows and overall scalp volume have thinned as my balding increases. Wigs are definitely the final frontier. Lucky us, lots of choices!! The best wig for your beloved ponytail is a full lace. Our ladies have excellent installing videos. Watch their videos, easier than we think. As far wigs, I have never met one that didn’t need alterations trimming,,thinning and rooting to make her my own. Synthetic wigs hairstyles and especially the color features are a work of art. The styles hold up making them a great choice for special occasions and travel, Cons for full time wearing, shorter life and color and curl patterns may not match the original if the wearer needs a replacement. or color in another style. A consultant told me human “Remy” colors are consistent because the manufacturer expects clients may further customize with the salons to add highlights, lowlights and style.
Thank you for sharing this video with us. You are one remarkable lady who has educated many people with this video. You should feel very proud of yourself. Always take care.
Thanks so much for your kind comments!🥰 Helping others with hair loss is my main goal. Thanks for watching!💖
Thank you so much! I’m on the verge of wearing toppers/wigs… and this certainly helps to decide what to wear in the future!!
You are so welcome!😀 I love hearing that my videos have been helpful! Good luck on your alternative hair journey when you do decide to give it a try!❤
Very informative and well done video! For many of the reasons you explain, I chose wigs from the start and I'm very happy with that.
Thanks so much!😀❤️ I think you made a very good choice and saved yourself a lot of trouble! I wish I had switched to wigs sooner.
I'm blown away. That first wig you were wearing was the most realistic I have seen. Was that synthetic? Synthetic is usually so shiny!
Thanks so much!😀 Drive by Ellen Wille is a heat friendly synthetic wig. Heat friendly synthetic fibers tend to be less shiny than traditional synthetic fibers. Here is a link to my full review for Drive - ua-cam.com/video/_1OUT3tonzo/v-deo.html. Hope you have a great day!💖
Thats a lovely wig you are wearing looks very natural ...good point ..if you have hair loss there isn;t healthy hair well said
Thanks so much and thanks for watching!😊💖
Michele, What a great advice tutorial! I was getting some traction spots and the dermatologist gave me multiple shots of steroid in each location and it grew back. Just a thought. Thank you so much for your thoughts and help.
You are very welcome, Diane!😀 I'm so glad to hear that the steroid shots your doctor gave you worked for you! Thanks for sharing that and for watching!💖
Clips on toppers definitely can be & are a problem…..I have spent all my money, trial & error….& will get a wig when I can afford one!
I'm so sorry to hear that! My best suggestions for buying less expensive wigs would be to look at www.wigoutlet.com, clearance sections for reputable retailers, or Facebook wig sale groups (be sure to only pay with PayPal goods and services). Also, different reviewers on YT often have sales. Hope this helps!💖
Your not alone💜 I've been trial and erroring for over five years because that's no decent wig shop in my area.
I truly enjoyed your video.👏🏻🏅Thank you for sharing your experience! I have been nodding my head in agreenent with everything you said as well as your countdown reasons. I purchased a human hair topper about 6 years ago and let me tell you, never ever again. Just once was enough for me to say...heck no! 🚫 Not only did it give me a headache because of the clips pulling on my hair, it was a constant pain reclipping the topper due to it shifting throughout my day and looking bunched up in one particular side. Once I started wearing wigs, I never looked back. I love how good your ponytail looks! Great job as it looks super realistic! Blessings! 💗
Thanks so much!!😀❤️ It's so great to hear that other wig wearers experienced similar struggles in their journey! I should have joined this community a long time ago. Thanks for all your encouraging feedback!🥰
Thanks for sharing ❤
Thank you for this video! I have hair, but also have chronic telogen effluvium. I have had CTE for over 30 years, and my bio hair needs a break. Toppers are a better fit for me, but my hair is so fragile, I know I would get traction Alopecia. I prefer wigs too. That said, I must have a weird shaped head because I am a petite average head circumference, but I struggle with fit around the ear tabs due to a super low hairline. I wear medium styles and try to wear them in ponytails. I am still trying to master this. I am hesitant to pay more than $200 for a synthetic piece, but I might have to bite the bullet to get the extended features. I appreciate all your reviews and tips!
You are so welcome!😀 I know exactly what you mean about the low hairline. I think mine may be a bit low too. Even with the Zara Lite I have to blend my bio hair in on the sides and with the ear tabs. I agree with you, I wish there was a more affordable synthetic wig that is low density and has the ear-to-ear lace front. (In my opinion it could be mono part and open wefted.) I know of quite a few extended lace front wig options (not ear-to-ear) but unfortunately I don't think they are under $200. Maybe a topper with combs (instead of clips) and a wig grip would be the best solution for you? Good luck!❤
Thank you for sharing your history with toppers. Your advice and tips are extremely helpful. I’ve never worn a topper, but when I first started wearing wigs I put a few clips in certain areas to keep it in place (right above the nape and above the temples) I couldn’t use them, they were very uncomfortable. Now I put combs there and what a difference. The wigs you wear are beautiful and very natural looking. I’m enjoying your videos.
Thanks so much Debbie!😀❤️ That is interesting about the combs - I have never tried that. I will keep that in mind. Thanks for taking an interest in my videos and for your encouraging feedback!
Those combs really hold? Do you use long combs or the short 1-1/2” size? I still add clips to my wigs- and I do have some combs on hand. So, every time I begin sewing the clip, I wonder if I should try the combs instead. Do you use combs along the front hairline?
My dermatologist told me that once you start the lotions and potions it takes a long time for it to start growing back and that it's a life-long commitment that you have to continue using it forever or it won't work anymore as soon as you stop using it
I have heard the same thing!👍💖
Wow, Michele. I thought I had all the info on all of this (wearing accessory hair since 2013) but you have really given me a lot of new ideas. Firstly, I also wear ponytails and think I may have caused my own hair thinning along the way from wearing my biohair pulled back too tight and too often. I still like to do that and have had success with Spotlight and Show Stopper (RW) and Sienna (JR). I think I will try Zara lite. What really impresses me is that you didn't even bother with a wig grip (which I always use). I had better invest in Walker Tape. I have toppers and they are problematic for all the reasons you state (Top Billing --has lace front --and Top Smart). I rarely wear them. Thank you!
Thanks so much Liz!😀 I'm so glad my video was helpful! You sound like an experienced wig, topper, and ponytail wearer! I bet the wigs you mentioned look great pulled into a ponytail!👍 The Walker tape is really great, I wear it often - just be careful removing it so that you don't stretch the lace front on your wigs or toppers (I recommend using JR Lace Let Go). I hope you love Zara Lite if you do decide to try her!❤
@@micheleswigreviews I will let you know. Thanks again, so much for all of this, Michele. ❤
@@micheleswigreviews what is the JR lace let go?
@@darlenegera8866 The Jon Renau Lace Let Go Adhesive Remover is a spray that "helps release and remove adhesive from your lace front wig and scalp. Only 2-3 pumps are necessary to help release and remove adhesive strips, and should be sprayed on to cotton swabs for gentle application." I work for Wig Studio 1 part time. Here is a link to this product - www.wigstudio1.com/collections/wig-caps-and-grips/products/lace-let-go-adhesive-remover. 💖
So far I prefer toppers, because I live in Florida and wigs feel miserably hot and itchy in our ever-worsening heat. Also, unless you have a hand-tied wig, wind blowing can reveal the wefts of a wig- not a good look! I have a strong hairline and can’t make lace fronts work for me. I cut bangs into my toppers, which is a very youthful look and disguises the front blending issue. I wear my hair up or in a ponytail 99% of the time, which helps to keep the topper secure. I clip a piece of ‘hair velcro’ ((from Amazon) across the topper, which adds more security, so it doesn’t pull too much on the clips.
I’m a natural light ash blonde and find that many blonde shades blend with my hair nicely. I don’t feel the need to match my bio hair exactly. I do color my toppers some, by toning them to get a cooler shade, as well as adding lowlights. They come with a light rooting, which looks very natural. No one can tell I’m wearing alternative hair- even hairdressers and doctors!
I’m retired so don’t wear my toppers every day, thankfully. I apply the clips in a slightly different spot each time to avoid traction alopecia. I have developed tougher skin where the clips go, so they no longer are uncomfortable.
I’m thinking of getting a hand-tied wig to wear in winter when it’s cooler. I’m not wild about synthetic hair as it starts to look ratty before very long. My human hair toppers have lasted up to 5 years, which makes them a good value. I like my hair to look as natural as possible, and I haven’t found the synthetic blonde shades to look very natural. They’re almost always too brassy and shiny, and the rooting is way too dark and harsh imho. I’m considering a human hair wig, though the good ones are very expensive. I might get a synthetic wig to wear occasionally, if I can find a style/ color/ petite size that works for me. I love some top volume, which wigs can better provide than toppers, in general. I use various tricks to add top volume to toppers, like hanging them upside down after washing, and using a flat iron on the crown.
I wish you’d share the names and manufacturers of the toppers you showed; I’m always on the lookout for great toppers!
Thanks so much for your perspective! We hair loss sisters need as much information as possible to navigate the sometimes overwhelming world of hair helpers!❤
Hi, thanks for your comment! I'm so glad to hear that you found a solution that works for you.👍 I don't know who the manufacturers were for my old toppers because I purchased them at a salon and a hair design studio and they did not disclose the manufacturer to me.💖
What price range are toppers vs wigs..just curious. I noticed no one mentions pricing or approximate prices 🤔
@@gracewhite6310 There are wide ranges for both. I recommend checking with your favorite retailer.👍💖
Hi Michelle, I’m new to your channel. Thank you for this video. You shared so much valuable information. I wear toppers but worry about damage caused by those clips. And the one wig I own is extremely itchy and uncomfortable. I’m relatively new to wearing hair and I’m learning as I go. Thank you for sharing this. ❤
Hi Cindy! Welcome, I'm so glad you're here!😀 There is definitely a lot to learn as you start your alternative hair journey - I promise it gets easier! Wigs can be itchy for different reasons. Normally the culprit is the permatease in the style or the lace front. There are several ways you can reduce the itching caused by your wig. A few suggestions I have would be to 1. wear a comfortable bamboo wig cap or a wig grip under your wig, 2. place clear silicone scar tape on the underside of the cap in the areas that are causing the itching, and/or 3. choose a wig with a 100% hand-tied cap or at least a mono top (you will have less permatease in these styles, if any). Hope this helps!💖
Thank you so much Michele, glad I just discovered you! We have A LOT in common. I'm also transitioning from 10 yrs. of HH toppers to synthetic wigs. My hair loss is genetic also but much more advanced than yours. I've never been able to comfortably use clips.Just some of my own tips to help anyone:
I use hair tape in front and curved bobby pins on the sides and back as needed. They're easy to hide as long as the color matches your hair and you place them right. Takes just a bit of practice. They might help with securing wigs too...not sure.
91% rubbing alcohol easily removes tape and residue.
I use both Milano and ThinHairThick topper grips. The THT ones have longer halo wires which I prefer.
You can clip them to the topper or tape them which is what I do so they lay flatter. I have a bald spot right in front so taping is quite effective for me.
I want to stop coloring my gray hair to match my brown toppers and am looking for low density, realistic (for a 60 year old) wigs. I will definitely check out the three you mentioned. I'm the same color and length as you and love ponytails and updos regularly, especially in the summer. That's been the main reason I've used toppers. I'm also really tired of the straight, flat look of HH toppers. I've never had one that could hold a curl for more than an hour! I love the waves and actual cuts of some wigs and would like some style options as long as they're realistic. All the best to everyone. Sherry
Hi Sherry, welcome, I'm so glad you're here!😀Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips!👏Just in case you are interested, I also love Miranda Lite by Jon Renau, Candace by Henry Margu, and Own The Room by Gabor. They are a bit shorter (than Zara Lite and Mesmerized) and look wonderful worn down and in ponytails. I hope you find a synthetic or heat friendly synthetic wig you love!💖
@@micheleswigreviews Thanks very much, I'll check those all out.
@@sldl9357 You are very welcome!😀💖
@micheleswigreviews I also really like WigStudio1. They've always been very helpful when I have questions, great sales etc. Andrea really helped me get some toppers too during the pandemic when the salon I used to go to basically abandoned us. That's a story! Oh well I had been wanting to become hair independent anyway so here I am.
@@sldl9357 I'm so glad to hear that! I love being hair independent too and am so grateful for the many wonderful options we have!👏💖
👏Excellent! Very informative! Thank you.
You're very welcome, glad it was helpful!😀💖
Thank you for showing the damage clips can do! I’m convinced that wigs are the better option for me, too. Toppers are hard to match and blend. Also, I have a unique situation with significant hair loss at the nape, and I believe the loss is the result of a burning, bleaching episode a few years ago. Toppers aren’t great for that coverage. I have been using minoxidil, and I believe I am seeing some sparse regrowth.
You are so welcome!😀I hope the Minoxidil continues to work for you. In the meantime, thank goodness for beautiful wigs!👍💖
Thank you so much for your opinions and honesty. So helpful as I enter this journey! 🙏🙏🙏
You are very welcome! I'm so glad you found my video helpful!😊 Wishing you the best of luck on your journey!💖
Hi Michelle,
another pleasantly informative video..so appreciated. I recently got out a few old toppers that I had, thinking I could wear them for the summer here in Arizona. I do notice that taking them off with clips open even pulls some hair out, and I don’t have much! Your video has convinced me to try to customize some of my unworn wings. Wish I could find something like Zara light only not as long, maybe RW wavy day. really hard to find a low density mid-length wavy style in the color I want that’s in stock! Any suggestions appreciated. You look beautiful with and without your wigs and explain things really well. Look forward to more videos!
Thanks so much, Rebecca!😀Jon Renau has released another wonderful low density style that I love - Miranda Lite. Miranda Lite can also easily be styled into a ponytail and is shorter than Zara Lite. Here is a link to my review for Miranda Lite - ua-cam.com/video/p-M3gsbxrAs/v-deo.html Hope this helps!💖
Toppers are much better then wigs , my friend wore toppers and her hair is black so it's easy for her to blend with her hair it just like accessories just clip it on your own hair light weight does feel hot, she said its very secure and u don't feel hot in it especially in the summer, that being said, she said she tried wigs on never comfortable cause it's feels heavy, and makes her head itchy, and it does not breath well sticky on your head, it really feels like u have a heavy band around your head, so she would never wear a wig😢
I'm glad to hear that your friend found a solution that works for her and that she likes her toppers. Please encourage her to wear them safely to avoid damaging her bio hair.👍💖
Hi Michele, thanks for sharing your experiences with both toppers and wigs and your honesty regarding both. Zara Lite looks beautiful in your updo, very realistic. What would be a cheaper alternative for a good updo? I have seen some positive posts about Touch Ellen Wille🥰 thanks.💙
Thanks so much Miryana!😀 It looks like Touch by Ellen Wille is great for updos! Low density - check, extended lace front - check... I might have to give her a try! Thanks for the suggestion!💗
Thank you so much for this helpful video, Michele. I have been considering toppers for a few years but aside from thinning hair due to an autoimmune and medication for such, I have a hard time raising my left arm and doing much with my hair like I used to. I always liked it up in a ponytail or in little clips. Both in messy styles. (I am an artist and like it "not so perfect"). But learning from your video how much movement/work wearing a topper would involve, I have resigned myself to continuing to wear wigs. Just a side note: now that I know Drive can be styled into a ponytail, I will invest in her. The one Rene of Paris wig that I have is Breezy Waves, and while she looks wiggy on me when she is left down, I have found her to look quite real (according to many compliments from friends and family) up in a messy ponytail. I have her in Smoky Rose - a warm color with roots that is obviously more bold - and I only have to put her up once and then take her off, and put her back on with the pony in place every time.
Anyway, thank you for another informative video. I can now mark "toppers" off my list and put Drive on my list. That particular color is one of my favorites and she looks fabulous on you! Take care.
Thanks for your kind words, Erin!😊 I'm sorry to hear about your health issues. Thankfully, wigs are a great solution. You have just inspired me - I need to try Breezy Wavez! I bet she looks adorable in a ponytail. Thanks so much for the tip! I hope you love Drive when you get her!💖
@@micheleswigreviews Thank you for your kind thoughts. I hope Breezy Waves works for you. As long as there is a root it looks more realistic (at least for me). I was surprised by the number of people who said she looked real once I put her up in a pony. Thanks again for all that you do on you channel. You have been so helpful. Take care of yourself. 🧡💛❤
@@erinneff9962 Thanks so much, you too!😊💖💖💖
The wig looks so natural, you wouldn't know it was a wig until I watched this video. Have you tried taking Pre-Natal vitamins for hair loss? I was losing chunks of hair and I remembered my friend telling me her doctor recommended Pre-Natal vitamins to her when she had the same issue. I tried it and in 4 months you can see the difference. My hair stopped falling out and it's fuller and healthier. Take it every day, it really works.
Thanks Susana!😊 I'm so glad to hear that you found a solution that works for you. I appreciate the tip, but I'm not interested in hair growth treatments. I would also suggest speaking with a doctor before taking pre-natal vitamins.💖
Thank you from the bottom of my ❤ to the top of my heart 💜 and all the way through the middle as well. B T W that’s where most of mine is missing around the whole middle of my head/ kinda like a reverse male pattern baldness. I sure hope I said that right.😂
You're very welcome, Rose! I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful!☺💖
Thank you for your advise very helpful 👍
You're very welcome, Louise! I'm so glad you found my video helpful!😀💖
You are marvelous. So happy to find you
Hi Vicki, welcome, I'm so glad you're here!😀 Thanks for watching!💖
Love your video! I've recently started wearing toppers. I also bought two wigs and both will not stay on. The nape is too far down on the back of my neck, it bunches up and ends up riding up in back and sides and slides up my head until it comes off!!! I tried wig caps and head bands to help hold the wigs on, they also slides up. How do you keep your wigs on?
Thanks so much!😊I'm sorry to hear that your wigs don't want to stay on. I normally just loosen or tighten the adjusters and I'm good to go. Are you certain that you are wearing the correct wig size for your head? Here is a link to a video that can help - ua-cam.com/video/UmWT1TVnnkk/v-deo.html. If you have the right size, you can make the cap fit you better by sewing wefts together (2 at a time) so that the nape is not as far down on the back of your neck. Regarding the wig grip you have tried, are you sure you have it on correctly? If it's a velvet grip, they have to be put on in a very specific direction or else they'll slip. The label should usually be on the outside and right side of your head. If your wig is still riding up and you have some bio hair, you could either style your hair into a low bun to help hold the wig in place or sew a comb or clip to the nape of the wig (just be sure it’s not pulling on your hair and follow the advice about clips shown in this video). Lastly, you can also use a wig adhesive and/or bobby pins. Be sure to follow the recommendations for how to remove the adhesive to avoid damaging the wig or your hair. Hope this helps!💖
Great video...why did you cut the silk out of the earlier HH topper ...did that make it cooler?? Lay flatter?? Thanks !!
Thanks!😀 Oh, I cut the silk out of the earlier topper after I stopped wearing it to sew it under the part line of a wig. It helped create more of an illusion of scalp where otherwise my dark bio hair might have shown through. I did this before I discovered how easy it is to use silicone scar tape for that purpose. Thanks for watching!💖
Wow... This was really good information but it also confused me now 🙂 I was planning on buying a Raquel Welch top billing topper today but now you made me wonder if it is a good idea... It would be my first hair piece and I 'm afraid that a wig would feel like wearing a hat all the time but now I also see the advantages. Do you not need to fix a wig? (I mean with clips etc)? Do you always need to glue the lace front? (I would like to try to avoid sticking glue on my bio hair. Does a wig give less pressure and headache than a topper? Thank you all for the advice!
Hi Inge! No, you do not need to glue the lace front or wear clips with a wig. I normally don't use anything to fix/secure my wigs and don't have any problems with them moving around. The only time I use an adhesive is when I wear my wigs in ponytails and then I use the Walker Lace Front tape that I discussed in the video. If you decide to get a wig, you could try not wearing anything under your wig at first. Simply tighten the adjusters so that the cap fits you well and see how secure your wig feels. If your wig does not feel secure, then I would suggest trying a wig grip. There are wonderful wig grips now that have an adjustable elastic band in the back so that you can get the perfect fit. Many wig wearers love wearing wig grips and feel that they really make their wigs more secure. I personally don't get headaches from wearing wigs. Good luck, I hope you find a solution that works for you and that you love!💖
Thank you for sharing your experience
You're very welcome!😊💖
hello what is the name of the wig your wearing in this video? its very nice. thank you
Hi, thanks so much!😊 At the beginning of the video, I'm wearing Drive in Chocolate Rooted by Ellen Wille.💖
Thanks for the video. How long do you keep your own hair? If you wear wigs all of the time is it easier to have short hair? Thanks
Hi Tracy, I'm so glad you enjoyed my video!😀 I think how long you keep your bio hair is a very personal decision. I like to keep mine long (slightly past shoulder length) because I like to (1) pull my bio hair into a ponytail with longer wig styles, (2) create a tiny French twist with my bio hair under my shorter wigs, and (3) wear it in a tiny low bun if I wear a baseball cap without a wig. Hope this helps!💖
Very good video! Thank you so much!!!!
You're so welcome!😀 Thanks for watching!💖
Your video is one of most useful I have seen, though my impression is that wig is much more recognizable than hair topper, am I wrong ?😊
Thanks so much!😊 It depends on the topper and wig...💖
I’m looking for a low density, human hair full lace front wig. It seems they make some great lace fronts for synthetic wigs, but I’m having trouble finding it with human hair. I prefer human hair if it’s a good kind of human hair. I get frustrated how they put so much hair into a lot of wigs, even some human hair ones. I don’t want that. The lower the density the more believable they are. All the reasons you named about wearing toppers I’ve experienced. I still kind of like them, but think a low density wig can look like a topper but not have to deal with all the issues of wearing one.
Hi Chris, I love low density wigs too!👍The following wigs are made with Remy Human Hair, are light density, and have ear to ear lace fronts - Carrie Lite, Sienna Lite, and Blake Lite by Jon Renau. I have not tried any of these styles but they might be good options for you. I would suggest watching reviews for these styles. Hope this helps!💖
@@micheleswigreviews I’ll check them out. Thanks.
@@chrischamberlain7628 You're very welcome!😀
Toppers have come a long way you should update this video
If I become aware of a new topper solution that I like, I may just do that. For now, I still prefer wigs. If you have a suggestion for a great topper I should take a look at, please let me know the brand and style. Thanks!
Can you get the traction alopecia from wearing wigs and a wig grip? I have thick heavy bio hair, but it’s crazy frizzy and I’ve always hated it so I started wearing wigs. I put all my hair up underneath and use a wig grip. Although I only wear them, maybe 3 days a week but overtime I was noticing a raw and slight thinning spot on my temple above my forehead on each side I think where the wig grip stopped. I stopped wearing wigs for a year and it didn’t make a difference or change so now I don’t know if it was genetic or not since I’m almost 50. Please let me know what you think about that.
Hi! Are you still reviewing wigs? I can't seem to find your channel anymore. First, let me say that I'm not a doctor or a medical professional of any kind, so I can't speak to what does or does not cause hair loss other than what I have experienced personally. I don't wear wig grips, so I don't know if they could cause hair loss. I will say that in the years that I have worn wigs (2017 - present day) I have not noticed any additional hair loss myself. Of course if your wig has clips or combs or if you use adhesives, these could cause hair loss. Having said that, you should definitely not develop any "raw" spots when wearing a wig. Perhaps a different wig size or wearing a wig cap under your wig could help protect your scalp and prevent this from happening. Hope this helps!💖
the wig that you are wearing at the start of the video. which one is that one please?
That's Drive by Ellen Wille in Chocolate Rooted.💖
I've had my eye on zara lute for a while now! Ive been trying to find a sale but after watching I'm certain she's worth the price, mostly bc how great it looks in a pony! Like you, I'm a pony-tail girl and wirh most wigs/toppers it's difficult to achieve. Question, to conceal the lace front do you only use the scar tape? Do you use anything else?
I hope you love Zara Lite if you do end up getting her! The lace front is pretty long when you get Zara Lite. I trimmed the lace very short around the ear tabs and where I'm blending it with my bio hair at the temples. I also trimmed the lace at the front hairline a bit. I use the scar tape and I think I used some light, matte eyeshadow on the part line as well when I first applied the scar tape. I don't use anything to conceal the lace front at the hairline, I sometimes just press it into my skin a bit. Hope this helps!❤️
I’m interested to know if Zara lite was worn daily how long would it last? I love a nice wig but needing to replace them every two to three months is the pits especially so for these pricier styles. Thanks!
Hi Pebbles, Zara Lite is made with traditional synthetic fibers. It should last 3-6 months with regular wear and proper care. For longer styles, I highly recommend using the Simply Stylin' Light Silk spray on the ends every 3-5 days (be sure to avoid getting it on the hand-tied cap so as not to loosen the knots). You can also use it on the nape. Hope this helps!💖
Thank you for your very informative videos! I am just starting to wear wigs. I have not attempted toppers. I have very fine slippery hair which has recently thinned likely due to stress, Covid, possibly medications and aging. Usually stress and Covid induced hair loss will grow back. Can the lace front cause chafing which will induce hair loss?
Hi, you are very welcome, thanks for watching!😀I'm sorry to hear about your hair loss! I have been wearing lace front wigs since 2017 and can tell you that my hair has not changed in that time. I have only occasionally experienced a small amount of chafing on my forehead and quickly resolved the issue by placing a piece of silicone scar tape on the inside of the cap to act as a barrier between the lace and my skin (you can buy clear silicone scar tape on Amazon). In addition, if the lace front ever causes irritation, I recommend - 1. making sure your wig is not too tight or too loose, 2. using Walker Lace Front wig tape (on your skin, not on your hair, and use Jon Renau's Lace Let Go to remove the tape) - this helps stop any small movements that can be irritating, 3. using a wig grip or cap and, if all else fails, 4. trimming the lace a bit with sharp scissors. Hope this helps.💖
Thank you very much for the info about toppers versus wigs. I will now go for a wig as my reason for looking into alternative hair is to make life easier and not more stressful. My only issue is with lace front wigs. My eye goes straight to the lace every time. Is there some way to further disguise that lace? it's so distracting for me.
Hi Sharon, I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful!😊 Normally all I need to do with my lace fronts is to keep them clean and they "melt" (disappear) into my skin. Even though you might be able to see it if you look closely, other people rarely notice it. However, if the lace is visible against your skin, you could try using some face powder to help conceal it. Also, most of the wigs I review do not require any lace trimming. However, if you feel that it is too visible, you might want to trim the lace. I don't normally recommend trimming too much because if the lace ends up fraying over time, you want to be able to trim it to remove the fraying portions. If you cut the lace really short right away, you may not be able to trim it if it does start to fray. Having said that, here is a link to my video showing how I like to trim the lace, if necessary - ua-cam.com/video/fSYbie-VjD0/v-deo.html. Lastly, you could also cut bangs or have a stylist cut them for you, if you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself. Hope this helps!💖
@@micheleswigreviews Thank you for replying. I’ll keep all of your information in mind.
@@sharonpierce7384 You're very welcome!😊
Hi Michele, thanks so much for your very helpful, informative video. I lost all of my hair during chemo almost 3 years ago and had 2 wigs which were past shoulder length, similar to my own length before I lost my hair. Now I’m on a continuous targeted therapy and my hair’s getting very thin and sparse so I was thinking of a topper. But after watching your video I’m going for a wig instead but now a shorter cropped one, similar to my hair length at the moment. I’ve kept my hair short since it grew back as I loved how easy it was to manage! So I wonder if you could advise me, do I need to wear anything under the wig beings as I still have some bio hair left? I tried one of my older wigs on today and found that they caused itching so have you any tips on how to avoid this? And is the walker tape sufficient to keep the wig secure? I used to wear the velvet headgrips when I was totally bald as my head was very slippery then, but now I do have some bio hair, albeit getting thinner by the day. Thanks in advance and you look amazing! 😊
Hi Mave! You're very welcome, I'm so glad to hear that you found my video helpful.😊 To answer your questions, no, you don't need to wear anything under your wig. I normally don't. If your wig causes itching and you don't want to wear a wig cap or grip, I recommend 1. placing some silicone scar tape on the underside of the cap in the areas that are causing the itching, 2. trying a new product by Amy Gipson called the Scalp Cushion (I have not tried this), and/or 3. choosing a style with a 100% hand-tied cap or at least a mono top (you will have less permatease in these styles, if any). Also, yes, the Walker Lace Front Wig tape (blue) keeps the wig secure. I would not recommend placing the tape on bio hair, only on your forehead. You could cut the tape in half lengthwise to create a slimmer piece of tape. I recommend using Jon Renau's Lace Let Go Adhesive Remover to remove the tape. FYI - I really only need the Walker tape when I'm wearing my wigs in ponytails. Hope this helps!💖
Thanks so much Michele, thats a great help and I will follow your recommendations. And your channel! Very best wishes from Ibiza 😊
@@maver1706 You're very welcome!💖
So it doesn't slide around with your bio hair not clipped up before you put your wig on? BTW it really looks natural🤓
Thanks Kimberly!☺ No, I don't have any problem with Zara Lite sliding around when I wear her in a low ponytail. I think the ponytail helps keep it in place.👍💖
can you wear Drive in a ponytail?
Yes, you can!👍 I love wearing Drive in a ponytail! Here's a link to my full review. I show Drive styled into a ponytail at time stamp - 6:19 - ua-cam.com/video/_1OUT3tonzo/v-deo.html. Hope this helps!💖
Dear Michelle why is so important having a Lacefront? Thank you for your video ! 🙏
Hi Lorena, you're very welcome!😊 In my opinion and experience, it's very difficult to blend your bio hair in with a topper or a wig at the front and have it look realistic, if you are suffering from hair loss. I have very rarely seen this done well. A lace front typically provides a realistic hairline with a parting space that extends to the very front (so there is no need to blend your bio hair). Also, you can use lace front wig tape, as discussed in my video. Hope this helps!💖
@@micheleswigreviews thank you very much for your quick and clear answer !😊🙏
@@lorena-elle Anytime!💖
Thank you. You are adorable
You're very welcome!😊 Thanks for watching!💖
I really appreciate this post! However, I am new to all this & very OCD+...with the wig you put on last, why can you see the line from the lace? Is it supposed to be that much of a different color than your skin? I want to try a lace front, but the line is just completely obvious to me...would you fix that with makeup & doesn't that take away from it being quick & easy? Does it just depend on the brand? As my understanding, lace is the most realistic?
Again, I do not mean to be 'that girl', but the best wigs & toppers are pretty expensive, so I'm trying to pick my 1st one smartly! I hope that you or someone will clarify this for me?
Thank you
Hi Tamara!😀 I'm a perfectionist too, so I know what you're talking about. First, let me say, yes I believe that lace front wigs are the most realistic looking (unless you wear bangs). Having said that, if you look very closely you can see the lace. As I mentioned in the video, this Zara Lite was "well loved" - I had worn her quite a bit. I like to wear bronzer on my forehead and very likely some of that bronzer, sweat etc. was on the lace and should have been cleaned. Here's a link to my original review of this exact Zara Lite - ua-cam.com/video/2oOT7Oiv9xo/v-deo.html. As you can see, the lace looks much cleaner and blends much more with my skin. Most of the wigs I review are ready to wear and do not require lace trimming. The Jon Renau Lite Collection is an exception. Here's a link to a video showing how I like to trim the lace - ua-cam.com/video/fSYbie-VjD0/v-deo.html. FYI, I'm an ambassador for wigs.com. Since you are picking your first wig, I highly recommend getting in touch with the Wigs .com Client Care Team at 800-581-2001, Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 6:30 pm or email sales@wigs.com. You can schedule a free, one-on-one, virtual consultation with a hair expert and get advice on how to find your perfect first wig. Good luck!💖
After watching this I decided to get a wig instead of a topper 😸
I'm so glad to hear that my video was helpful!😀 I think with wigs you will not have any regrets!❤
I think you could cut your bio hair into a short pixie. It'd be cute on you & give you a break from wigs let alone It'd be easier under a wig. 😊
Thanks for your comment. As I mentioned in my video, I have androgenic and traction alopecia. If a light or the sun shines directly above my head, you can see almost all of my scalp. My hair never looks good no matter how I style it or have it cut, but I love wearing wigs!👍💖
Sigh, I cannot find a wig that fits properly, so they are not comfortable. I had hoped that a topper might be more comfortable.
In what way have your wigs been uncomfortable?
@@micheleswigreviews Pull up and off or give me a headache. Most are way too small.
@@susans7091 Wigs come in different sizes. It's important to wear the correct size. It sounds like you might be a large. I'm an ambassador for wigs.com. Here's a link to their Wig Buyer's Guide that includes how to measure your head - www.wigs.com/pages/wig-buyers-guide. You can also get in touch with the Wigs.com Client Care Team at 800-581-2001, Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 6:30 pm or email sales@wigs.com. You can schedule a free, one-on-one, virtual consultation with a hair expert and get advice on how to find your perfect wig or topper. You can also schedule a try on consultation and get wig/topper care education. Hope this helps!💖
@@micheleswigreviews Yes I take a large, but most wigs do not come in large.
@@micheleswigreviews Your buyers guide link has an entry for a free wig but I cannot find where to enter my information!
Thank you very much for the video .. do they wigs fall off ?? Do you they stay intact ?
You are so welcome!😀My wigs stay in place - they do not fall off. They can sometimes move around a little if I'm leaning against something with my head (like in the dentist chair). I don't typically use anything to secure my wigs but there are quite a few options for securing your wig if you are concerned that it might move around too much. Many wig wearers like to wear wig grips and/or adhesives to secure their wigs. Hope this helps!💖
Thank you very much for the response. I used hair toppers all the time and it is damaging my hair badly… I was thinking why is my hair falling off .. now I understand the issue , I have some questions on the wigs and what suits me , how can I reach out to you ? Thank you
@@roopam1654 Hi! I work part time for Wig Studio 1. You can contact support@wigstudio1.com and speak with a Personal Hair Consultant (I'm not one) about your wig questions and they can help you. They are knowledgeable across the board on wig brands and styles. You can request a complimentary, no obligation consult. You can reach them Mon thru Fri 8am to 4pm PST or you can use the Live Chat feature on the website. Hope you find a wig you love!💖
I bought a human hair topper with no clips from thin hair thick and I can tell you..waste of money , couldn't get it to fit my head, contacted the company and they were not sympathetic, told me to do a couple of things to help the topper to fit my head but that didn't work, total waste of £600 UK and i never got to wear it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm so sorry to hear that! If you love toppers, another option is the Milano TopGrip which you can buy on Amazon. It's a grip for toppers. I have not tried it but have heard good things about it.👍💖
Does the walker wig tape go on the lace front? Doesn't it tear the lace when you pull it off to change it?
Hi Darlene, yes, the Walker Lace Front Wig Tape (blue) goes on the lace front. I would not recommend placing the tape on bio hair, only on your forehead. You could cut the tape in half lengthwise to create a slimmer piece of tape, if that helps. As long as you use Jon Renau's Lace Let Go Adhesive Remover and remove the tape gently, the lace is not likely to tear. It's more likely that the lace could become stretched out and not lay flat if the tape is not removed properly. Here is a link to a Jon Renau video that can help - ua-cam.com/video/TkBWWUVcFcU/v-deo.html 💖
@@micheleswigreviews I was worried you would see the Walker tape thru the lace front of the wig
@@darlenegera8866 Nope, once you remove the blue backing it's nearly invisible...👍
Minoxidil is what made my hair fall out! Not right away but about 6 months later. Sorry I used it at all.
I'm so sorry to hear that!🤗❤
What was your second topper called?
I don't believe the topper had a name. I purchased it at a hair salon that also sold and installed toppers.
Ladies I am fat, over 50 and in menopause! I burn up most all the time!!! What brand wig would be best? Anyone in menopause knows that your head sweats horribly!!!
Hi Kristie, I'm sorry to hear that you're having a hard time being in menopause. I'm 54 now and in post-menopause but I remember those hot flashes well! If you are looking for the coolest possible wig, I would suggest trying low density wigs without permatease, shorter styles or styles that can be worn in a ponytail or updo. Also, open wefted caps are generally cooler, in my opinion. Ellen Wille is known for their low density styles. Hope this helps!💖
when women show them i'm always like Girl that does NOT look reealistic.
🤣💖
@@micheleswigreviews i'm already depended on wigs myself and i make my own 13x6 lace front wigs.
i glue the whole front to my skin from ear to ear, but unfortuntely that takes so much time and energy.
some women leave them on for a whole week but i can't do that, at night it's such a relief to take it off and then the next day it's such a struggle again.
@@micheleswigreviews i always felt like 13x6 lace front wigs are the very best but yes, still unfortunately such a struggle.
@@beautyneytiri Wow!! I have always been so impressed by people who are able to make their own wigs! Kudos!👏💐 I bet they are beautiful! I agree completely - I have to be able to take my wig off at night - that also improves the longevity of the wig! Gluing it down from ear to ear does sound like an ordeal. Have you tried the Walker lace front wig tape? I often use it when I wear my wigs in ponytails and I just leave the tape on the wig for the next day. I end up changing the tape about every 4th day or so.💖
@@micheleswigreviews yes i started with tape, but when you also want to glue down the sides it's doesn't work.
i'm not using real glue however, i use got2b gel and hairspray.
it just takes a long time for these products to work as glue.
i can remove it easily with warm water but yeah, it's just such a hassle.
Thickhair thin as no clips for their toppers
Hi Louise, yes, I have seen the Thin Hair Thick Clipless Toppers. I mentioned these clipless toppers that are worn with a wig grip in my video and discussed why I personally have not been tempted to try them. (I did not name the brand in my video.) There is also a similar topper grip that I know some topper wearers like called the Milano TopGrip which is found on Amazon. It is a wig grip for toppers. Both the clipless toppers and the topper grips can help protect your bio hair and might be a great solution if you love wearing toppers and don't style them into updos.💖
Please please just put it on…it’s 11 minutes and 25 seconds in and you haven’t put any on 😢 got to go…good luck everyone ♥️
Sorry you were frustrated about how long it took for me to put Zara Lite on. I was wearing Drive by Ellen Wille at the beginning of the video. This is the longest video on my channel. If you want to go directly to that part of the video, it's at minute mark 31:19.💖
@@micheleswigreviews Hi Michele…I’m so sorry, I did not mean to be rude. The initial hair style right out the gate was not yours? That was a wig? In the very beginning? Wow!!!!!! So natural. I will go back and jump in where you mentioned. Thank you ♥️
😘🍵🍦
those clips are PAINFUL, clip into a topper grip instead of your hair
Topper grips are definitely an option!👍💖