We always
strive for excellence offering the latest innovative wig base types to mimic
scalp in addition to hairs growing out of the scalp. Lace hairpieces are very popular and have
pioneered the hair replacement industry however there is a lot of
misinformation shared about them online. Tons of vendors sell different Lace (Net
and/or Mesh) types with the same names such as French, Swiss, German and Film
Lace however the quality varies from vendor to vendor same as the hair color,
textures and curls.
Let’s Start
with 100 Facts to Consider When Buying Lace Wigs
©2014 Egypt
Lawson for Hairline Illusions. All
rights reserved. If you wish to repost
any section of this article contact us at info@hairlineillusions.com.
FACT #1
Lace (Net
and/or Mesh) is a wig thin sheer foundation material usually made with honeycomb
or hexagonal shaped holes. Lace is made with holes in different sizes and comes
in different weights and thicknesses (deniers) relating to visibility and
durability. Lace is also offered in several colors to match skin tones.
FACT #2
Many people
are under the impression that lace wigs are the most realistic, natural wigs
made with the most undetectable hairlines and want their lace wig to look so
real that the trained-eye can't tell they are wearing a wig. This will never
happen with a lace wig even with the best wig application and camouflaging.
Lace wigs were originally created for theatrical purposes – They are less
visible on stage, after the sun goes down outside and inside under normal
lighting.
FACT #3
Lace Base
“Wig Foundation” is the lace wig cap where hairs are knotted (loose double or
single drawn) hairs are hand-tied (ventilated) strand-by-strand onto the wig
base foundation) and wefts can be used to form a wig.
FACT #4
Full Lace,
Lace Front and Glue-less Lace Wigs are not Cranial Prosthesis and are not
recommended for Cancer Patients under going Chemotherapy or people with Alopecia,
with sensitive or sore scalps.
FACT #5
Wig
adhesives should never be used on Chemotherapy patients - It can cause
infections, irritations and scalp soreness.
FACT #6
Super Fine
Swiss Lace (fragile lace front wig foundation material) is not recommended for
first-time lace wig wearers. Light hair densities are recommended.
FACT #7
Stage “Film”
Lace: (fragile lace front wig foundation material) - Similar to Super Fine
Swiss Lace with less stretch (Depending on where it’s manufactured). This lace
is not recommended for lace wigs for extended wear. Light hair densities are
recommended.
FACT #8
Swiss Lace:
(lace wig foundation material) - Is slightly thicker than Super Thin Swiss and
Film Lace but thinner than French Lace. Some manufactures use, mesh stretch
fiber and some have a more firm fiber. This means that the Swiss Lace may
differ when ordering from different vendors. Light to medium hair densities are
recommended.
FACT #9
French
Lace: (lace wig foundation material) - Is the most popular amongst the laces
and more durable than Swiss and Film Laces. Although this lace is more visible,
it is recommended for new lace wig wearers. Light to medium hair densities are
recommended.
FACT #10
Monofilament
“Mono”: (lace wig foundation material) - Is use when constructing some lace
front wigs. It is a durable wig making
material. Medium to heavy hair densities can be used.
FACT #11
Welded Mono:
(lace wig foundation material) - Is also used for constructing lace front wigs.
The Mono has been treated with ultrasound to give it a slight curve.
FACT #12
German
Lace: (lace wig foundation material) - Is similar to but slightly stiffer than
French Lace. It is used for heavier
densities because it’s a more durable mesh.
FACT #13
Welded
Lace: (lace wig foundation material) - Is similar to French, Swiss or German
Lace (Depending on the manufacturer) but the lace mesh has been treated with
ultrasound to give it a slight curve.
FACT
#14
When
wearing lace wigs with your own hair there is always a shadow on the base where
your hair starts underneath. Wearing a wig cap, camouflage material or
tape can help create a better scalp illusion.
FACT #15
China uses
nylon laces to construct a lace wig. German lace that is manufactured in
Germany is cotton. Hairline Illusions uses silk and cotton laces.
FACT #16
Lace wigs
imported from China feature shorter cut hairs in the same texture or curly
texture around the hairline. The wig can look unnatural with thick density baby
hairs. The baby hairs Hairline Illusions offers is collected from young donors
first haircuts, so the hair is finer than adult human hair – Hence “Baby Hairs”.
FACT #17
When
applying professional lace front liquid adhesives to attach a lace wig to your
hairline, the adhesive can fill in the lace holes and disguise the lace more
than adhesive tape – making it less visible. However outside in the sunlight
the lace will still be visible. Lace wigs are almost invisible but not totally
concealed in the daylight.
FACT #18
Stylists may
use concealer make-up foundation to cover the lace and hair knots, but
ultimately the lace fibers are still visible in sunlight even with
camouflaging. Lace wigs can look flawless in studios and on stage using this
technique.
FACT #19
Bleaching
the knots involves turning the wig inside-out and applying hair color bleach or
make-up spray to lighten the knots – making them less visible. Using the hair
color bleach to lift the color from the knots damages the hair and will shorten
the life of your wig. If the hair on your lace wig is similar to your skin
color, avoid bleaching your knots.
FACT #20
Lace wigs
should be washed on the head to prevent loosing shape. Lace fibers can loose
shape and stretch during washing.
FACT
#21
Well-constructed
lace front wigs are more natural looking than traditional “Machine Made” wigs. However,
a badly constructed lace front wig can look worse than a traditional wig.
FACT #22
Lace wigs
are much lighter in weight than traditional wigs and full hair weaves. A well-constructed lace wig can weigh from
4oz depending on hair length and density.
FACT #23
When
applied correctly without adhesives and clips, lace wigs can be a healthier
alternative for hair growth than weaves and hair extensions. Lace wigs cover the head allowing the scalp to
rest from constant pulling and pollution.
FACT #24
You can buy
a premium well crafted lace wig and it will still be visible even with the best
application and camouflaging. Invisible lace in sunlight does not exist.
FACT #25
Fragile
hairline laces can rip during cleaning if you are not careful. Avoid the “Mirror
Slide” adhesive removing technique on Swiss and Film Laces.
FACT #26
Mixing (70%
distilled water and 30% glycerin) solution can keep lace wig hair softer and
manageable.
FACT #27
Thicker
laces and monofilaments can irritate and scratch the skin. Avoid these laces if
you have a sensitive scalp.
FACT #28
Use Pinking
Shears scissors to prevent fraying lace around the hairline. It also gives the lace edge a more natural
looking edge when using adhesives. Click here for more info.
FACT #29
When using
wig clips to attach your wig base to your hair, it can cause a bald spot where
you attach the wig to your natural hair.
Using wig combs or bobby-pins are a slightly better option but can also
cause thinning.
FACT #30
Gluing lace
to your skin along with using a wig cap or camouflage (matching your skin
color) underneath will give you the most natural looking lace wig application. You can also apply liquid make-up (matching
your skin color) on thin material or wig caps under your wig.
FACT #31
An
experienced wig stylist who knows how to properly apply your unit is needed for
best results. Although there’s a
plethora of great videos and information online an experienced stylist is
always best.
FACT #32
Adhesive “Glue”
(liquid or tape) is not healthy for skin on your edges for extended wear. Skin
can become irritated, itchy and a rash may occur after prolonged exposure to
glue.
FACT #33
Always do an
adhesive patch test to see how well adhesives work with your body chemistry.
Wash a small area on the inside of your arm near your elbow. Wipe it clean and
dry. Apply a small amount of the adhesive using a spatula or brush on your skin
and let dry. If your skin experiences any redness, itching, or blemishes, this
indicates that you may be allergic to something in the product.
FACT #34
When
applying a lace wig, leaving out your hairline can look very natural using a
wig cap, liner or camouflage (with your skin color) underneath. By exposing
your hairline the wig can look more natural with a professional application.
FACT #35
Lace wig
wearers with low hairlines should leave out their natural hairline and wear
lace wigs behind their natural hairline. Some people shave their hairlines back
to apply their wigs below their hairlines to avoid an unnatural look.
FACT #36
When
leaving out your edges and applying a lace wig, an experienced colorist is
needed to match your hair color to the lace wig’s hair color. If your hair
color doesn’t match it can look less natural.
FACT #37
Clear
acrylic spray can seal the knots to prolong the life of a lace wig. However it
makes the lace harder and can bleed onto the hair through the wig base. While
spraying if not careful it can cause hair to harden as well. Sprays can be toxic and it is always a good
idea to protect your eyes, use disposable gloves and a mask during this
process. Make sure to cover hair with a plastic cap or bag during this process
and spray at least 10” away from the wig base.
FACT#38
On
theatrical stages, film, photo and video shoots lace wigs can look realistic
with the use of special lenses but it is not the most natural looking wig Hairline
Illusions offer. Click here for more info.
FACT #39
No matter
how well a lace wig is made, if it's not applied correctly it will not look as
natural.
FACT #40
Liquid
adhesives camouflage the lace more than adhesive tape allowing the lace to
blend better with the skin. If your skin is not properly cleaned and dry before
applying adhesives, the adhesive can turn a whitish shade making the lace more
visible.
FACT #41
Celebrities
more than likely have excellent wig makers and stylists to perfect their
look. When they wear wigs during magazine, video and commercial shoots
some leave out their natural hairlines for a more realistic look. Also photo
retouching may be done as well as special lenses being used to make their hair
look more flawless.
FACT #42
Lace wig
applications with glue or tape will not last more than 2 weeks without
touch-ups. It can also shift (move) back allowing adhesive to get into your
hair. Using a hairline band can help
keep your wig in place when sleeping. Click here for more info.
FACT #43
Some
stylist use concealers and skin color tapes underneath lace wig bases - where wig
hair is parted to give an illusion of a natural scalp.
FACT #44
A great
lace wig adhesive application depends on body chemistry. Ultra Hold may work wonders for most, but
some stylist swear by Perfector Plus.
FACT #45
Using scalp
protector as a barrier before applying adhesives can help your lace wig to
adhere longer.
FACT #46
Lace Wig
Positioning Spray is a must-have when applying wigs. It helps you correct errors and allows your
wig to adhere longer. Click here for more info.
FACT #47
Trichologist
are dermatologist that specializes in the scientific study of the health of hair and scalps. If you have
irritated, tender or a sore scalp, it is best to ask a Trichologist if you can
wear a lace wig.
FACT #48
A lace wig
will be more visible when applied over a black wig cap without adding skin
color camouflaging. It is best to use a wig cap similar to your skin color.
FACT #49
Removing
hair knots around the hairline can give you a more natural look when ordering
inexpensive wigs. Hair knot removal
takes a lot of patience and can cause you to rip holes in your lace wig base so
be very careful. Some like to use barber clippers to carefully shave a part.
Shaving a part can cut the lace so be very careful.
FACT #50
The
majority of lace wigs sold on the market are blended with animal and mono-fiber
hair fillers - even when labeled 100% Remy Human Hair without fillers. Real
human hair wigs will last years and the hair will never change if not
chemically processed and cared for correctly. Simply said, you get what you pay
for.
FACT #51
Scattered
hair (ununiformed hair in random directions)
is the most used hair in inexpensive lace wigs.
Some Remy AAAAA labeled wigs have had the hair cuticles removed using an
acid bath to blend better with fillers.
FACT #52
A soiled or
dirty lace wig can shed more because knots can become loose from the wig base.
Keep your lace wig base clean to prevent premature shedding. You can clean the wig base only without
cleaning the full wig using wig base cleaner. Click here for more
info.
FACT #53
Most lace
wig manufacturers use a silicone treatment on inexpensive hair to make if feel
more soft and supple as human hair. Using a silicon mix is a deep conditioning
treatment that can temporarily revitalize human hair with fillers. Once the
silicone mix is washed away the hair can become dry and brittle.
FACT #54
Since most
imported lace wigs have animal fillers, products like Mane & Tail, Cowboy
Magic and Show Sheen can also revitalize the hair.
FACT #55
The Organic
Apple Cider Vinegar method can reduce dry hair, matting and tangles. Dilute
vinegar with distilled water 50%/50% (equal parts). After washing with
conditioning shampoo apply vinegar mixture on hair for about 5 minutes. Rinse
with cool water and apply your conditioner and rinse again.
FACT #56
After
washing your lace wig you can use any Instant Freeze or Hair Holding Spray to
seal the knots until the next wash. Aerosol sprays work best and don’t bleed as
much through the wig cap onto the hair when spraying. Turn wig inside-out and spray on the inside
of the wig base and let dry for at least 10-15 minutes before applying or set
under cool dryer for 2-5 minutes.
FACT #57
You can
imitate bleach knots by spraying Sally Hansen leg make-up on the inside of your
wig base. Make sure to spray at lease
10” away from wig base to prevent make-up bleeding on the hair. Using a Matte
Finish Makeup Setting Spray can help the make-up spray last longer. Waterproof
spray foundations such as Dior Skin AirFlash Spray Foundation can also last
longer.
FACT #58
Tight wig
caps and headbands can cause headaches.
Make sure to stretch your wig cap looser several times before applying
it. Apply your headbands snugged but not
too tight.
FACT #59
You can dye
your wig cap (not wig base) with Rit Fabric Dye to match your skin shade. Using
Rit Fabric Dye on wig bases after wig is completed is not recommended because
it can darken the hair knots if they are bleached.
FACT #60
Some people
use color iron-on patches close to their skin tone under the wig base. Some swear by this older method of
camouflage.
FACT #61
Experienced
wig stylist also use materials such as band-aids and silicone sheets to
camouflage (covering natural hair) to help parted hair look more natural like
scalp.
FACT #62
Lace wigs
should be applied slightly below the natural hairline when using adhesives. If you are not using adhesive you can apply
the lace wig on or behind your hairline.
FACT #63
Steam
cleaning your lace wig can extend your wig’s life. If you use adhesives this method may not make
a difference because you will still have to wash your wig base when using
adhesive removers.
FACT #64
Hairline
Illusions creates wigs that are more realistic looking than lace wigs – even to
the trained eye. Click here for more info.
FACT #65
Sewing a elastic
band on the inside of wig base near the temple area can hold your lace wig in
place giving it a snugged fit without adhesives and clips. Search for ‘Tootsie’s Mom Method” for more information.
FACT #66
To prevent
“Cone or Helmet Head Effect” you should braid or slick your hair back away from
your face so your wig can lay flat on your head and look more natural.
FACT #67
If applying
lace wig behind hairline, your natural hair texture should match or resemble
the hair texture of the lace wig for it to look natural. If you have natural
unprocessed curly hair and the hair on your wig is straight you will have to
straighten your natural hair with heat or chemical process to match the hair on
your wig. Using heat and chemical
processes on your natural hair can damage your hair so be very careful and let
a skilled professional do the process.
FACT #68
If you do
not have a natural hairline and not sure where to apply the front hairline of
your lace wig (using a tape measure) you can measure under your nose-tip to
your chin and use the same measurement from your (center front) hairline to (center
top) of your eyebrows.
FACT #69
You can
make your own quick lace wig using a lace frontal or closure, 1-2 packs of
weaving hair (depending on desired hair density) and a wig cap by sewing the
frontal or closure in the front of wig cap and weaving the wefts in the back.
Some hairstylist use this method to create a quick disposable lace front wig.
FACT #70
Your hair
and scalp should be cleaned prior to wig application. Using a leave-in scalp cleaner can prevent
excessive itching and dirt build-up. Click here for more info.
FACT #71
Your lace
wig can lift prematurely from water and perspiration. After a fresh glued-in
lace front wig, do not wet your hair for at least 24-48 hours, depending on your
skin type. Unnecessary sweating can also
cause premature wig lifting for this time period so avoid activities that cause
excessive perspiration.
FACT #72
When
adhesive buildup is absorbed by your skin and hair, removing your lace can
become more difficult. Avoid excessive
wig pulling because it can cause Traction Alopecia. To Properly remove wig put your hair in a high
ponytail and apply adhesive remover on adhesive using a sponge swab. Do not
prematurely pull your wig from your head before the remover finishes releasing
your wig. You should be able to remove and detach wig easily without any
tension. Follow instructions included on the remover’s bottle and if it doesn’t
release during specified time apply more remover and repeat process.
FACT #73
Lace wigs
are more visible after the first wear when using adhesives. After removing your
lace wig, using a sponge swab gently applying 99% Isopropyl Alcohol on glue
residue left on your wig and gently scape off using your fingernails. Do this
in small sections, then wipe with clean dry towel.
FACT #74
After
removing your lace wig you can use a stainless steel spoon to gently scrape
adhesive residue from skin.
FACT #75
You can use
a toothbrush or fingernail brush to remove adhesive residue from your lace wig
after applying remover. Avoid stretching lace as you brush.
FACT #76
Before
reapplying your lace front wig if your wig is not properly cleaned the lace
will be more visible even if adhesive isn’t used.
FACT #77
Platting
hair in large braids before washing lace wigs with long hair can save time and
extend the life of your wig. You will experience less pulling and friction
during the washing process with this method.
FACT #78
People use
dishwashing liquid to wash lace wig base to remove buildup and adhesive. This older method is still being used in some
hair replacement centers.
FACT #79
Some adhesive
solvent chemicals can alter the hair textures and cause premature shedding if
left on too long. Make sure to wash away
adhesive solvents 2-3 times to make sure your wig is completely cleaned.
FACT #80
The hair on
your lace wig can develop split ends if you use excessive heat and wash it too
often. Ionic products are great to prevent split ends when using heat because
they infuse moisture and can seal split ends.
FACT #81
When
wearing a lace wig with a hair color process outside in the sun, it can have a
“UV Light” chemical reaction, which causes the hair to oxidize. Hair can become
dull or more red from wearing in the sunlight.
FACT #82
Wearing lace
wigs with hair fillers can cause skin irritation and pimples on face.
FACT #83
Wearing
lace wigs that have been treated with harsh factory chemicals can cause your
own hair to break (If leaving out your own edges). The chemicals used to make
the hair feel more supple have an adverse effect on your own natural hair
causing it to become more dry, brittle and eventually causing breakage. Keep your hair moist by applying leave-in
conditioners and organic pomades.
FACT #84
If the hair
on your lace front wig is blended with monofibre or thermofiber (synthetic)
hair, after using heats over 200 degrees; The wig will begin to shed
excessively everyday when brushing.
FACT #85
You can
stain (dye) synthetic hair with rit fabric dye. The longer you leave the hair
in the dye the darker and richer it becomes – closest to the desired color.
FACT #86
Some
stylist use permanent markers such as sharpies to darken the roots of lace
front wigs for photo shoots. This quick
fix saves precious time when the clock is ticking and there’s no time to spare.
FACT #87
Most human
hair used on lace wigs originates from temples in South India where natives
sacrifice their hair for blessings. China and South Korea also collect hair
locally to produce lace wigs.
FACT #88
An American
cut ponytail can sell from $500 if it’s from a non-smoker donor and the hair is
in great health without any chemical processing. Hairline Illusions primarily
collects hair from donors from America, Africa, Asia, India, Indonesia, Italy,
Malaysia, Mexico and Russia.
FACT #89
It can take
as many as 8 ponytails (depending on desired density and hair length) to make a
full wig because the shorter hairs in the ponytail are not used.
FACT #90
Spirit gum
is the most popular glue used in the theatrical community and the original
adhesive for lace wigs. It can last from a few hours to three days.
FACT #91
Depending
on adhesive, some stylist use cheese cloth to clean up adhesive when applying
lace wigs.
FACT #92
Dabbing a
lightly steeped, damp tea bag can tone down light lace to match your skin tone
better.
FACT #93
Combing and
brushing your lace wig while wet can cause premature shedding. Your wig is very delicate and even more
fragile while wet. Excessive combing
while wet can cause the ventilated (hand-tied) knots to loosen from the lace
wig base and eventually shed.
FACT #94
Washing
your lace wig with hot water can loosen the ventilated (hand-tied) knots and
cause premature shedding. Use cool to
lukewarm water when washing your lace wig.
FACT #95
Avoid using
heavy oils and conditioners on lace wigs. They can loosen the ventilated
(hand-tied) knots and cause premature shedding.
FACT #96
Using a
traditional wire wig brush can be too abrasive and cause premature
shedding. Use wide-tooth combs instead
to carefully comb your lace wig.
FACT #97
Air-drying
is the best way to dry your lace wig. The next best method is blow-drying or
sitting under a dryer with a cool setting.
FACT #98
Lightly
tying up your lace wig hair and covering with a scarf while sleeping can help
extend the life of your lace wig.
Sleeping with hair loose can cause friction to your base and ventilated
knots. Wearing satin/silk scarves can help prevent premature shedding.
FACT #99
Using a
hooded blow-dryer can shrink your lace wig if you do not use a wig head holder
or it is not applied on your head. If
you use this method, make sure to keep the blow dryer setting on cool to avoid
shrinkage.
FACT #100
Lace wig
makers are in demand and can earn extra income even working part-time repairing
wigs. Click the following link for more
info http://www.hairlineillusions.com/classes.html
©2014 Egypt
Lawson for Hairline Illusions. All
rights reserved. If you wish to repost
any section of this article contact us at info@hairlineillusions.com
Hairline
Illusions
5 Penn
Plaza 23rd Fl
New York,
NY 10001
(866)
777-7567
Book: The
Art Of Making A Lace Front Wig ISBN 978-0-9915228-0-4
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