Buying guide for Best wig caps
If you wear wigs on the regular, you know that wearing one is as much a fashion statement as it is a lifestyle. Just like any accessory or garment, fit is everything, especially since wigs are usually worn all day long. To achieve a better fit and more comfortable wear, consider wearing a wig cap with your wig.
Wig caps secure hair and provide a smooth surface over which a wig can fit better. They come in a variety of colors to match your skin tone or wig color for a natural look. Wig caps also aim to be as comfortable as possible, and they’re designed with breathable and flexible materials. Unlike wigs, which can be expensive, wig caps are available at a fraction of the cost — so it’s a small price to pay for comfort.
Key considerations
Who benefits from wig caps?
Hair loss sufferers: Those who suffer from alopecia and chemotherapy-related hair loss benefit from wearing a wig cap. As these individuals have sensitive scalps, wig caps protect skin from chafing that occurs when skin comes into direct contact with wigs.
Fashionistas: Individuals who embrace hair fashion also benefit from wig caps. For some, wigs are a dramatic change from their natural hair. With that said, wig caps improve the fit with a better hairline appearance. A wig cap can make a wig looks so natural that few people will notice it’s a wig at all.
Actors: Thespians and cosplayers wear wig caps to achieve a professional costumed look. Character wigs are often dramatically different than natural hair, which is easily hidden with a wig cap beneath them. In addition to keeping the wig performance-ready, it also lets the wig sit more naturally on the head, which makes a big difference in pictures and videos.
Seam styles
When comparing wig caps, start by considering the location of seams, as wig caps vary the most when it comes to seam styles. Some wig caps place the seams around the outside of the cap, whereas others have seams going over the top. Those with sensitive scalps may benefit from seamless, or stocking-style caps since these styles don’t have bothersome stitching that can aggravate skin by chafing.
Sizing
The majority of wig caps are one-size, and since they’re made from flexible materials, they fit most scalps. If your hair is long or thick or you find one-size caps are too small, you’ll need to find a manufacturer that offers a size range for caps. This may somewhat limit which caps will fit you comfortably, and it could cost you more per cap. Even then, considering you’ll have a more comfortable fit, a more comfortable cap is well worth the investment.
Expert Tip
If you are a cancer patient wearing wigs for the first time, consider a seamless, breathable wig cap. It won’t chafe your skin as much, and it will keep your scalp cool while you undergo chemotherapy.
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Features
Colors
Wig caps come in a variety of colors to match your skin tone for a seamless, natural appearance. The most common colors for wigs are nude tones. Some brands offer a wide range of shades to match different complexions, whereas others only offer two or three. This is a source of frustration for many who wear wigs, as it somewhat limits your cap options based on color availability. If you have trouble finding a tone that matches, opt for a stocking-style cap, as they’re often sheer and somewhat less noticeable.
Popular wig cap materials
Nylon: Nylon wig caps resemble traditional pantyhose stockings. As they’re somewhat sheer, they’re virtually undetectable under a wig. There are also more opaque styles available. Nylon wig caps offer comfort and breathability, and some styles are seamless or feature wide bands. Nylon wig caps are ideal for the individual who wears a wig daily and needs a wig cap that helps provide a natural-looking hairline beneath a wig.
Mesh: Mesh wig caps resemble fishnet stockings. Made from nylon blends, these caps offer a great deal of elasticity and flexibility. Since they have “holes” in their design, they’re also incredibly breathable to keep you cool under the wig. They’re worth considering if live in a warm climate or are a stage actor who frequently works under hot theatre lights.
Spandex: Spandex wig caps are somewhat thicker than nylon ones, though they’re still flexible and breathable. In fact, some people opt to wear spandex caps without wigs, as they’re fashionable on their own. Some spandex caps have wick-away features as well. These are ideal for those looking for a thicker cap that can go through considerable wash and wear.
Bamboo: Bamboo wig caps are softer than cotton and will wick away moisture. They’re also lightweight and breathable. Since they are slightly thicker than nylon and Spandex, they often hold up to more washing and wear. Given the softness of bamboo, they’re ideal for chemotherapy patients who are wearing a wig cap and wigs for the first time.
Wide band caps
To choose a comfortable, long-wearing wig cap, choose a wide band wig cap for headache-free wear. These distribute tension and pressure over a wider area, which means they also reduce the likelihood of skin indentations on your forehead. Wide band caps are also less likely to roll and pull tiny hairs, which is also a cause for wig-related headaches.
"Store your wig cap in a resealable bag. It will prevent snags and holes, which your wig cap could sustain if it’s left in a drawer on its own."
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Wig cap prices
Wig caps cost between $3 and $25 per package, which mostly depends on the quantity and the quality of materials.
Inexpensive
For budget-friendly wig caps, expect to spend $10 or less on a package of two to six caps. They get the job done for a couple of wears but won’t last as long as premium caps.
Mid-range
For mid-range wig caps, you’ll spend between $10 and $15 per package. There are packs of budget-friendly styles with up to 12 caps per package, and for premium caps, you’ll get 6 or less.
Expensive
For top-of-the-line wig caps, expect to spend closer to $25. These include packs of up to 100 caps as well as packages of around 6 premium caps. Premium caps have far better construction and often come with a size range and color assortment. They are also designed to be headache-free.
Expert Tip
As tempting as it may be, avoid plucking flyaways from your wig cap. The hairs may not always grow back. Instead, take the extra time to adjust your wig cap and tuck tiny hairs inside.
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Tips
- Always have backup caps. Keep more than one wig cap on hand so you never have to wear a wig without one.
- Try different materials. Because wig caps come in several different materials and blends, it’s a good idea to try each one to find the most comfortable and breathable cap.
- Go seamless. If you have sensitive skin, opt for a seamless or stocking-style wig cap to minimize chafing and irritation.
- Find a method that works for your hair. Depending on the length and texture of your hair, you’ll need to master a method to put on your wig cap. Watch different tutorial videos or ask a wig expert for tips and advice.
FAQ
Q. I wear wigs in bright colors like neon green or hot pink. How do I choose a wig cap that won’t be too noticeable under the hair?
A. Since it’s unlikely you’d find a cap the same color as your wig, opt for a cap that most closely matches your skin tone. It will have a more natural look around your hairline, as you won’t have a noticeable line of cap elastic peeking out.
Q. My natural hairline is uneven, so how do I line up my wig cap?
A. Follow the forward-most part of your hairline as a guide. Place your wig cap at that point to ensure your hair is completely tucked inside the cap and won’t be visible when wearing your wig. You might be a little taken aback that the way it slightly changes the profile of your face, but don’t worry, you’ll get used to it as you continue to feel more confident in your wig and wig cap.
Q. I keep getting flyaway hair when I put on my wig cap. How can I handle them?
A. Your best bet is to smooth your hair toward your crown before putting on the wig cap. You could also use a fine-toothed comb sprayed with a light mist of hairspray as well. If you happen to have a sensitive scalp, opt for an alcohol-free hair spray to avoid additional scalp drying or irritation.
