The Ultimate Wig Buyer's Guide

If you are new to wigs, it can feel a little intimidating. This Wig Buyer's Guide was made to make the process easier, one step at a time. Looking for partial coverage instead? See our Topper Buyer's Guide. New to wigs? Start with All About Wigs.

I’m Andrea, and I have hair loss and wear wigs daily. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. You can book a free consultation or email us at support@wigstudio1.com.

Step 1: Measure Your Head

Average size wigs fit about 95% of customers, but many styles also come in petite and large sizes. Most wigs also have adjustable straps that give up to ½ inch for a more comfortable, personalized fit.

To find your size, measure the circumference of your head from the front hairline, behind your ear, to the nape of your neck, behind your other ear and back to the front hairline. Write down your measurements and compare them to the chart below. For more detail, see The Right Wig Fit: Step-by-Step Measuring Guide.

Sizes may vary slightly by brand, and not all wigs are available in all cap sizes.

Step 2: Choose Your Wig Style

Browse our full wig collection and filter by length: short wigs, medium-length wigs or long wigs.

If you’re shopping for your first wig, we recommend starting with a style close to your natural hairstyle. A familiar look helps you feel confident and comfortable as you transition into wearing wigs. Once you’re used to it, you can explore bolder styles, colors and textures. Certain styles also complement specific face shapes; see How Do I Know What Style to Choose?

Step 3: Choose Your Hair Type

Each hair type offers unique benefits for different needs, lifestyles and styling preferences. Learn more in our guide to choosing synthetic or human hair.

Human Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs offer the most natural appearance, feel and movement. They can be heat styled like your own hair and offer the greatest versatility, but they require more maintenance.

• Standard human hair: most natural look and feel; can be curled and straightened with heat tools; needs restyling after washing; can last over a year with proper care.
• Premium and Remy human hair: the highest quality human hair, with cuticles aligned in one direction to reduce tangling; luxuriously soft; can last over a year with proper care. See Remy vs. regular human hair.

Synthetic Wigs

• Traditional synthetic: pre-styled and holds its shape after washing; very low maintenance and ready to wear; not heat friendly; typically lasts 4 to 6 months with regular wear.
• Heat friendly synthetic: can be restyled with low heat (we recommend about 270°F to 280°F; maximums vary by brand); more versatile than regular synthetic; needs a little more daily detangling; typically lasts 4 to 6 months with regular wear.

Pro tip: If you love changing your look, Remy human hair or heat friendly synthetic wigs are excellent options. For easy, everyday wear with minimal upkeep, traditional synthetic wigs offer simplicity and convenience.

Step 4: Choose Your Cap Construction

The cap determines how the hair is attached and affects comfort, realism, styling flexibility and breathability. Learn more in What Is the Difference in Wig Cap Designs?

• 100% hand-tied caps: the most natural movement, with each strand tied by hand across the entire cap; extremely soft and ideal for sensitive scalps; allows parting in any direction.
• Monofilament caps: each hair is hand-tied to a sheer base so it appears to grow from the scalp. Available as mono part, mono crown, full mono top and double monofilament for extra comfort.
• Lace front caps: a sheer lace hairline for a seamless, natural look when wearing styles off the face.
• Basic caps (also called capless or open caps): the most affordable and durable construction, with open wefting for airflow and built-in volume at the crown.

Pro tip: For maximum comfort and realism, consider a hand-tied or monofilament cap. For a budget-friendly, breathable option, a basic cap is a great choice.

Step 5: Choose Your Wig Color

Most styles come in a wide range of shades, from natural hues to fashion colors, including rooted and highlighted tones. Compare shades by brand on our wig color charts, or order a color ring to see colors in person.

First-time wig buyer? Start with a shade close to your natural hair color. It can make the transition feel more comfortable and help you feel confident from day one. Once you're comfortable, you can explore bolder shades.

Need help? We offer free personalized color consultations. Book a consultation or email support@wigstudio1.com.

Step 6: Care for Your New Hair

The right care routine keeps your wig looking fresh and helps it last. Always use products made for your wig's fiber; regular shampoos and conditioners can damage both synthetic and human hair.

• Human hair: see How to Care for Human Hair Wigs and shop human hair care products.
• Synthetic: see How to Care for Synthetic Wigs and shop synthetic hair care products.
• Heat friendly: see How to Care for Heat Friendly Wigs.

Browse all wig care products and accessories, including shampoos, conditioners, detanglers, styling sprays, wig stands and caps.