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Wig Frequently Asked Questions
What different man-made fibres are used for the ‘hair’ part of a wig?There are 2 different types of man made fibre, Modacrylic and Kanekalon, these are both polymer fibres which are basically a tube filled with colour.What different caps are available and what are their advantages and disadvantages?There are 3 types of cap available. These are machine wefted, hand knotted and monofilament foundations. All 3 types of foundation are all adjustable for size. Hand knotted foundations are very lightweight. Monofilament top wigs look very natural and the parting can be changed. Machine wefted wigs come in a vast selection.What is meant by the term ‘monofilament’?Monofilament is a clear material into which the hair is hand knotted, giving a natural appearance of hair growing from the scalp.How can I tell the difference between a machine and a hand made wig? What are the advantages of each?Machine wefted wigs are made on a wefted foundation, hand knotted wigs are made on a light net foundation, the advantages of machine wefted wigs are the huge selection of styles and colours. Hand knotted wigs are lightweight but come in a smaller number of off-the-peg styles.Supplex and Dermalite wigs are advertised as suitable for people with complete hair loss. Why are they only suitable for people with complete hair loss? What is the difference between the two?The Dermalite is a completely custom made wig, made to a client's individual specifications, and a template is taken for size. This wig, due to it’s construction, is only suitable for people with 100% hair loss. However very small amounts of hair still growing can be removed if the client is happy about it. The Supplex is a piece, kept as a stock item in shops and comes in 2 sizes, and a selection of colours, and can be worn with complete or partial hair loss.What should I consider when deciding whether to have a man made fibre or a real hair wig?Colours and style availability, your lifestyle and whether you have the time to care for a human hair wig.How can the different types of wigs be cared for, washed and styled?All good wigs should come with washing instructions! Fibre wigs are left to dry naturally and human hair wigs need washing like your own hair and styling to achieve the desired effect.Are there products for covering small patches of hair loss?Yes, Couvre and Mane are both products that can disguise hair loss, also small hair pieces can be custom made for these areas.What financial assistance is available when buying a wig?If bought privately the VAT of 17.50% can be deducted from the price for medical sufferers (alopecia, cancer treatment etc), and some shops offer a 10% discount if 2 or more wigs are bought in a year. If you have a referral from your GP to a specialist dermatologist you may get some help from the NHS towards the cost of a wig. Provision varies according to which Health Authority covers your area in the UK.a href="#top">« Back to top What other products are available for people with alopecia?Apart from wigs a selection of Turbans, scarves, hats, bandannas and sleep caps are available.Is there such a thing as an NHS wig?The UK NHS does not make wigs as such but has a list of contractors around the country to which a hospital can refer you. They will offer a range of wigs provided by their suppliers, which may vary from hospital to hospital. A prescription is sometimes available to help with the cost.Are there special ranges of wigs for children and people with small heads?Some children’s wigs are available and also petite ranges suitable for adults with smaller heads, older children or young teenagers. |
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