It wasn’t long ago that a woman was expected to wear a wig if she had alopecia (hair loss), was undergoing chemotherapy, or had some other health condition that caused hair loss. Hopefully, those days are gone!
We believe that wearing a wig is a fashion statement that’s tasteful and memorable. A wig should be thought of as similar to an article of clothing, not as symbolizing illness.
Moreover, there’s no reason why women with certain health conditions should be stigmatized because of simple hair loss. This isn’t what happens with men when they lose their hair.
So let’s move on.
The Thing About Wigs
Did you know that there are some stunning wigs available today? These include every style from more traditional looks to lace front wigs with many striking cuts and colors.
Lace-front wigs are among the most sought-after and expensive wigs. The part of a lace-front wig at the forehead has intricate lace-like stitching that matches the color of the hair (real or artificial) in the wig. It makes the wig look natural.
There’s no reason a wig has to look like natural hair, nor is there a reason why it shouldn’t. Just as any make-up you wear might or might not be noticeable to others, beauty is, as they say, “in the eyes of the beholder” and stands on its merits.
Of course, some wigs look unnatural or downright ugly, but haven’t you ever gotten (or given yourself) a bad haircut? As with any hairstyle, make-up, or article of clothing, you need to know how to wear a wig the right way.
Why Start Wearing a Wig?
There are several reasons to start wearing a wig. Some of them are for vanity, some for style, and even some for warmth.
Wigs for Vanity
Many of us enjoy being looked at by others, and we want to look our best. A wig can cover what we consider physical flaws (real or imagined). It’s a “security blanket,” so to speak.
Wigs for Style
Similarly, we want to stand out among the crowd—maybe even be someone different just long enough to be the center of attention. Then, we can return to our usual selves, feeling a little more special.
Wigs for Warmth
Some people have no hair. As mentioned above, this could be due to health conditions. Some people, though, just enjoy the sensation of a bald head or find it convenient when washing up in the morning.
However, people who either lose their hair or shave it off are quick to realize the extent to which that hair had been keeping them warm. So they substitute a wig.
Why Do Black Women Wear Wigs?
The question really is, why do black women wear wigs more than women from other cultural backgrounds?
Research has uncovered the idea that many African American women experience anxiety about their hair—what color it should be; how long or short; loose, straightened or braided; a wig or a weave; and so on.
The research speculates that hair is far more central to Black identity than it is among other groups. Perhaps one reason is that African Americans have faced scrutiny and been reprimanded for wearing their hair “natural.”
Sometimes, wearing a wig can be an easy fix or a matter of convenience for Black women.
There are many perspectives on this issue; these have been just a few.
Wear a Wig When You Want To!
Anyone who wears a wig can attest to the stigma they face. One woman told us she wore a wig for a while due to alopecia. She recalls being asked many times if she was sick.
She appreciated their concern but wondered why it was never expressed when she wasn’t wearing a wig. Then, she abruptly decided to shave off all her remaining hair and revel in the sense of freedom this gave her. Wow!
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