With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to embrace styles that keep our hair off our faces and our confidence soaring. But let's face it (pun intended!), as predictable as it may be, it seems the number one concern we have is how do we make our wigs look natural, especially when we want to flaunt those fabulous, fringe-free hairstyles during the famously humid British Summertime?
First and foremost we want to ask you why you think its so hard for wigs to look real… because it isn’t! As a wig wearer, do you notice wigs on others? Well, I am sure you’ll agree that it’s only those which are not well suited, fitted or badly styled which stand out. We’ve been working with wigs ourselves for years; designing them, styling them and for periods of time even wearing them, and through a lot of trial and error, we’ve discovered some fantastic tips and tricks to ensure that your wig looks as natural as possible. Let’s dive into the essentials of achieving a natural-looking hairline with summer wigs; our guide to keeping your wig game strong even in the sweltering summer heat.
1. Choosing the Right Hair Texture
One of the most important factors in achieving a natural look is the texture of your wig. Human hair wigs are undeniably the gold standard for natural appearance. They move and feel just like our own hair, which makes them perfect for those seeking the most authentic look. However, synthetic wigs have come a long way and can also look incredibly realistic if you know what to look for. Opt for high-heat synthetics, or hybrid mixes of synthetic, high-heat and even human hair if you’re not looking for a complete change!
Human hair wigs offer the most natural texture and are incredibly versatile. You can style them just like your natural hair with heat tools, which means you can achieve those perfect beachy waves or sleek ponytails that are perfect for summer. They also adapt to the climate, so are as affected by rain and humidity as bio-hair (which is both a blessing and a curse), so expect to be making more of an effort with trying to style and keep these in check!
While synthetic wigs are generally more affordable, they can sometimes have an unnatural shine. But don’t worry! You can mattify synthetic fibres using dry shampoo or a bit of translucent powder. This simple trick helps reduce that artificial gloss and gives your wig a more natural finish. And better still, if you opt for a high-heat synthetic you can have all the beauty of freestyling as with human hair without the added bonus of the curls dropping out or reappearing as soon as things get a little sticky!
2. Perfecting the Hairline
A natural-looking hairline is crucial, especially when you're pulling your hair back into summer styles, or those fancy up-do’s for that wedding you’ve been excited about abusing the free bar at since February! Here are some tips to achieve that seamless hairline:
Lace front wigs are a game-changer. They feature a sheer lace area at the front, which creates the illusion of a natural hairline. When applied correctly, it’s almost impossible to tell where the wig starts and your skin begins. Make sure to cut the lace carefully and secure it with wig glue or tape for the best results. You can even blend this into your skin using your foundation as an extra step. If you’re looking for something a little extra, look for an ear-to-ear lace front and really go to town on utilising loose baby hairs to create an undone, natural look.
Baby Hairs
Creating baby hairs can add to the natural look of your wig. These are the fine, wispy hairs around your hairline that help blend the wig with your natural skin. You can carefully trim some of the hair along the lace front to create these baby hairs and lay them down with a bit of styling gel.
Plucking
Sounds scary, right? We don’t advise you try this one without a professional but a dense hairline can be a dead giveaway, particularly if you’ve barely any parting. Whilst it’s advisable not to go for a wig that’s hugely denser than you remember your natural hair to have been, if you opt for thicker locks and always part your hair in the same place, speak to one of our stylists about the possibility of thinning out that parting area of a lace cap to give the illusion of hair growing directly from the scalp.
3. Securing Your Wig
A secure wig is a confident wig. To ensure your wig stays in place during those hot summer days, consider the following:
Wig Caps
Wig caps can help keep your natural hair tucked away and provide a smooth surface for your wig to sit on. They also help with grip, reducing the chance of your wig shifting throughout the day.
Wig Grips
Wig grips are fantastic for extra security. They’re made of a comfortable, non-slip material and are worn under your wig to keep it firmly in place without the need for glue or tape. If you're looking for something even easier and super effective, try our WonderBand for a seamless fit everytime!
4. Styling Tips for Summer
With the hairline sorted and the texture on point, let’s talk summer styles! Here are a few styles that are perfect for the season and help keep you cool:
Braids and Buns
Braids and buns are fantastic options that keep your hair off your neck. They also add a stylish touch and can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Beach Waves
For a more relaxed and toussled look, go for beach waves. If you’re using a human hair wig, you can achieve this with a curling wand or straightener. For synthetic wigs, opt for a wig that comes pre-styled with waves to avoid heat damage. A great duo for this on human hair is some salt or sugar spray and a quick scrunch of the hand – you’ll look fresh from Bondi in no time!
5. Caring for Your Wig
Lastly, proper care is essential to maintain the natural look of your wig. Always follow the advised aftercare routine to keep things fresh, and when summer is over pop into your nearest salon for a regroom before the cold weather sets in… that’s another blog entirely!
Remember, confidence is key. When you feel good about your wig, it shows. So, embrace these tips and style-out your wigs with pride this summer!
Let us know if you have any other questions in the comments below!
Team Aderans x
