Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (2024)

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (1)

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Even for the most devoted wig enthusiasts, picking the right wig can be a challenging undertaking. Think of it like buying a car: they all have a unique catalog of characteristics, and you can either purchase the one that fulfills your basic needs or the other one with all the bells and whistles. But thinking of what suits your demands, what complements your style, and what fits your budget can ultimately help you choose the best option wig for you.

There are tons of online retailers who sell wigs, but if you want a quality product at an affordable price with a minimal amount of wait time, Amazon might be your best bet. The site has a plethora of wigs to choose from, perfect for both first-time wig wearers and pros. We polled the pros for their top picks.

Best Bob

Vivi Babi Short Silky Short Bob Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (12)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (13)Easy to install
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (14)Relatively affordable
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (15)Cut asymmetrically

This is an ideal closure wig if you're seeking something that's easy to install. This wig is made entirely of virgin Remy Brazilian human hair. It's perfect for those days when you want to rock a short and sleek bob. Plus, it's tangle-free.

Rave review: "I colored, cut, and styled this wig and everyone thought it was my own hair!!!! This has been a go to wig to the point where I’m about to purchase another one!"

Lace size4x4
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating3.8/5 stars

Best Wavy Wig

Lemoda Full 13x6 Body Wave Lace Frontal Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (16)

Try Lemoda hair if you want a wig with a lot of density at a moderate cost. Available between lengths of 18-34 inches, this wig has a 180% density and is made of 100% virgin Remy Brazilian hair.

Rave review: "This is hair is awesome! Don’t even think about it, ORDER IT! It came with the quickness and the customer service is so nice!"

Lace size13x6
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.5/5 stars

Best Ombré Wig

Aaliweya Highlight Ombré 13x4 HD Transparent Lace Front Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (20)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (21)Low maintenance
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (22)Glueless
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (23)Longer lengths can tangle easier

Quickly change your look with this fun blonde highlighted bob wig that's both spring and summer-ready! It's pre-plucked with baby hair and is made of 100% virgin human hair.

Rave review: "I love this wig. It laid effortlessly, hardly tangles or sheds, it's soft, shiny, and is just amazing for the price."

Lace size13x4
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.2/5 stars

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Best Deep Wave Wig

Ibntohat 13x6 HD Transparent Deep Wave Lace Front Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (24)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (25)Pre-plucked
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (26)Glueless
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (27)Curly hair may require more maintenance

With a natural hairline, bleached knots, and pre-plucked baby hair, it's a great choice for those looking for a ready-to-wear wig. This wig is durable, and it won't tangle up or shed.

Rave review: "I like the fact that is wig has good density, the hair is really good quality for the price! I would recommend and purchase from this company again."

Lace size13x6
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.4/5 stars

Best Synthetic Wig

AISI QUEENS Long Black Wavy Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (28)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (29)Strap in the back provides security
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (30)Barely sheds
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (31)Not ideal for updos

If you'd rather rock a synthetic wig over human hair, you're guaranteed to love these long black waves from AISI QUEENS. It's odorless, heat-resistant, and safe for sensitive skin. If black isn't your shade, you can buy this style in nine other colors.

Rave Review: "This is an extremely well-made wig. It looks natural, and it's adjustable! It's also very thick but not heavy and can be worn for very long periods of time!"

Lace size5x6
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating4.0/5 stars

Best Short Wig

SEVENCOLORS Short Hair Wig With Bangs

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (32)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (33)Inexpensive
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (34)Minimal customization needed
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (35)Comes in one size

ICYDK, pixie cuts are still very trendy. This short blonde and brown wig uses top-notch heat-resistant synthetic fiber that is ideal for long-term wear. While the style is short, it still gives you a boost of volume.

Rave Review: "I bought this for a friend who has thinning hair. She loves it and gets so many compliments. She is so happy and said it's super comfortable."

Lace sizeNot listed
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating3.3/5 stars

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Best Lace Wig

BEEOS Ultra-thin Real HD Lace Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (36)

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (37)

Now 14% Off

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (38)Small knots for more realistic appearance
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (39)Can be customized
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (40)HD lace tears easily

This wig may be pricey, but it's definitely worth the cost. The HD lace line seamlessly blends into the skin and is suitable for all skin tones. It can be dyed, straightened, or curled. Plus, you can buy this style at up to 30 inches in length.

Rave review: "Well worth the $200. By far the best wig I’ve bought, and I’ve spent well over $400 for other wigs. The HD lace is superb!!!! It's the best glueless wig I’ve ever had!"

Lace size13x4
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.1/5 stars

Best Curly Wig

ARUKIHAIR Afro Kinky Curly Wig With Bangs

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (41)

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (42)

Now 20% Off

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (43)Easy to install
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (44)Close match for people with type 4 hair
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (45)Maintenance can be high

If you're looking for more volume you'll love this kinky curly wig. It's composed of virgin Brazilian curly human hair and is machine-made with a 200% density. Just wash it with conditioner and warm water, and it's ready to wear.

Rave review: "I absolutely love this wig and I had no shedding at all and I broke it up into sections and brushed every coil. This is just like my natural hair."

Lace sizeNot listed
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.1/5 stars

Best Straight Wig

Farblick Wear And Go Glueless Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (46)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (47)Can be dyed, bleached, and permed
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (48)Can be parted in different ways
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (49)Low density

Going for that pin straight look? If so, look no further than this glueless wig. It's a great option for those who are new to wigs and need something that's easy to install. It's breathable, odorless, and anti-allergenic.

Rave Review: "This wig is soft, true to length, and beginner-friendly. If you’re looking for a good glueless wig, this is it!"

Lace size6x4
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.7/5 stars

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Best U-Part Wig

UNICE Ombre Balayage Highlight U-Part Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (50)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (51)No stocking cap needed
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (52)Easy to install
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (53)On the lower density side

For those who want to participate in the ombre trend, check out this U-part wig from UNICE. This tangle-free, shedding-free wig can be restyled, dyed, and bleached to meet all your styling needs. The clips and adjustable straps make it super easy to take on and off with ease.

Rave Review: "This wig is amazing! It doesn't shed and looks so realistic. I've received a lot of compliments, and the hair looks like it's worth more than the price."

Lace size4x1
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating3.8/5 stars

Best For Beginners

EMMOR Lace Front Ombre Blonde Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (54)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (55)Budget-friendly
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (56)Can take heat
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (57)Very limited parting ability

This is an excellent starter wig with numerous colors to choose from. To make the wig's style more adjustable, shape it again using a hair dryer or curler (just make sure the temperature is less than 150° C or 302° F).

Rave review: "It’s lightweight, the hair does not feel synthetic at all, the dimension in the color is gorgeous and does not look cheap or plastic-like. I’ll be tossing out all of my other wigs!"

Lace sizeNot listed
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating3.9/5 stars

Best Short Wig

VIPbeauty Pixie Cut Short Curly Bob Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (58)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (59)Transparent lace
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (60)Can be parted in multiple places
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (61)May be harder for beginners to style

For when you want to rock a short cut without having to shear your own locks, this one will come in handy. It's affordable and is made with curly human hair. The wig can be heat-styled too, just don't overdo it, as the product description explains that too much heat with shorten its lifespan.

Rave review: "This wig is nothing but adorable, and I love it!!"

Lace size4x1
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.0/5 stars

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Best Body Wave Wig

ANNELBEL Body Wave Lace Front Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (62)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (63)Pre-plucked hairline
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (64)Breathable cap
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (65)Not great if you want light volume

This wig is made of 100% unprocessed Brazilian virgin human hair and is super voluminous. It's 18 inches long for those days when you want to the length of your hair to really stand out. It won't shed or get tangled, so you can style to your hearts content minus the stress. It also has adjustable straps and can be worn without glue.

Rave review: "Love the hair. The quality is amazing. Feels like real authentic hair. Was very easy to install and came with a band to help me slay my edges."

Lace size13x6
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.0/5 stars

Best Pixie Cut Wig

MELANNA Pixie Cut Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (66)

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (67)

Now 29% Off

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (68)Comes with supportive clips
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (69)Easy to adjust
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (70)Needs 24 to 48 hours of ventilation before use

Like many high-quality wigs on the market, this pixie cut doesn't disappoint. It doesn't knot up or shed. It can also be curled, permed, or straightened, so there's no shortage in the styling department.

Rave Review: "This is a pretty good low cost wig. It comes with a little bit of layering, and it's easy to style."

Lace size5.51x1.97
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating4.0/5 stars

Best Blonde Wig

Vigorous Long Blonde Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (71)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (72)Budget-friendly
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (73)Long-lasting
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (74)May seem too shiny for some

This blonde wig has plenty of density thanks to its multiple layers. It can be easily styled used a curling iron, and the bangs hide the hairline effortlessly. The wig also doesn't tangle, so you can style as much as you want without any hassle.

Rave Review: "This wig was super soft and realistic. It was comfortable and stayed on well. People thought it was my real hair. Totally recommend!"

Lace sizeNot listed
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating4.2/5 stars

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Best Auburn Wig

NAYOO Long Auburn Wavy Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (75)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (76)Breathable
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (77)Easy to brush
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (78)May tangle up

Perfect for when you want beach waves, this auburn wig is super rich in color. The high-temperature resistant fiber can withstand up to 350 degrees. And for just $30, it's definitely worth your buck.

Rave Review: "This wig looks and feels so real. I can put this wig on and almost trick myself. I can comb the wig and the curls bounce right back."

Lace sizeNot listed
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating4.1/5 stars

Best Wig With Bangs

AISI HAIR Short Black Wig with Bangs

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (79)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (80)Good for a fuller look
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (81)Has adjustable hooks
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (82)Bangs may require more work to maintain shape

Many wigs come with bangs, but this wig has plenty of density to give you a fuller look. It's also ideal for those who like a little bit of length but not too much. It looks natural thanks to the texture of the synthetic fibers.

Rave Review: "I love this wig. It looks real enough for me to wear to work everyday. It's easy to put on, and it has kept its shape beautifully."

Lace size3.94x3.94
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating4.1/5 stars

Best Braided Wig

Beauart Knotless Box Braided Wig

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (83)

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (84)

Now 25% Off

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (85)Lightweight
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (86)High in density
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (87)Cap runs small

Those who get braids done at the salon regularly know that it can take several hours to get the job done. If you're hoping to save yourself some time, try this box braids wig from Beauart. While it may be on the pricey side, it has over a thousand five-star ratings on Amazon.

Rave Review: "I have always hated sitting for hours to get my hair braided. This wig is perfect. It's not too heavy, and after over a year with numerous washes, the braids are in great condition."

Lace size13X8
Hair typeSynthetic
Amazon rating4.5/5 stars

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Best Multicolored Wig

Beauty Forever Multicolored Wig With Red And Blonde Highlights

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (88)

Pros
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (89)Highlights looks natural
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (90)Soft texture
Cons
  • Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (91)Pricey

Interested in a pop of color? The red and blonde highlights on this wig might be the subtle look you've been dreaming of. You can shop this in up to 28 inches in length, so the styling opportunities are endless.

Rave Review: "This is the most long-lasting wig I’ve ever had. It has a beautiful blend of colors, fits me perfectly, and looks very realistic."

Lace size13X4
Hair typeHuman
Amazon rating3.8/5 stars

Meet the experts

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (92)

Justi Embree is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of Embree Theory Hair. Melissa Mallam is a hairstylist and owner of Pampered Tresses. Priscilla Davis is a wig specialist and owner of Hair By Caprise.

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (93)

Corein Carter

Corein Carter is a multimedia journalist based in Los Angeles. Her work has been published in Forbes, Harper's Bazaar, Instyle, Martha Stewart Living, Allure, and other publications. She is the founder of Color Creative Consulting, where she assists brands and businesses in developing a strategy for gaining media and brand partnerships.

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (94)

Sabrina Talbert

Editorial Assistant

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

Experts Explain What You Should Know When Buying A Wig For The First Time (2024)
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