Miles of Style by Raquel Welch.
Wigs or weaves? What’s the difference and which option is best? Well, it all depends on your needs and preferences – both have their advantages and disadvantages.
If you are unsure of where to start, our guide will answer all your questions about wigs and weaves.
Wigs vs. Weaves: What’s the Difference?
Weaves
A weave is human or synthetic hair that’s sewn, glued or clipped into your natural hair. The hairdresser usually braids your natural hair flat and then sews in the desired amount of hair bundles into your hair leaving your real hairline visible. Note, this process can take anywhere from two to six hours depending on how many bundles you are sewing into your hair.
When done well, weaves can stay in for up to two months. Therefore, they’re great for people who want to give their natural hair a styling break but are looking for extra volume. They also put less stress on your hair because a weave is a protective style, which requires minimal daily upkeep aside from moisturizing.
It’s advisable to have your weave sewn in by a professional because there are risks involved if done incorrectly. For instance, you may braid your hair too tight which can stress your hair. You can also sew in the weave too tight causing breakage. Not only does it cause discomfort, but it also gives you a headache that can last days.
Bonded Extensions.
The Advantages of Wearing Weaves
Here are some reasons why people prefer wearing weaves:
- Variety. Weaves come in different styles and colors – you can choose a blonde curly weave or a blue bob. There are so many choices.
- It’s easy to maintain. Once a weave is sewn in well, it doesn’t move or slip; you’ll have peace of mind for a few weeks. This is a big pro for people who want to save time on their hair when getting ready.
- It’s convenient for summer or hot weather. A weave is a good option if your hair is prone to breakage during summer or it’s generally hard to maintain. It will retain its form even with humidity changes.
- You can add length and volume to your hair. This is a major pro of wearing a weave. You don’t have to wait for your hair to grow to get a desired length or to try a new style; you can wear a weave. Weaves can be fitted in to hide thinning hair or increase the length of your breaking hair.
20" Elite Clip In Remy Human Hair Extensions by easihair.
The Disadvantages of Wearing Weaves
Like with anything, there are some cons of wearing a hair weave.
- They can be costly. Depending on the type of weave you buy, the hair wefts can be very expensive. Additionally, you’ll need to pay your hairdresser for braiding your hair as well as sewing in your hair weave.
- They’re not a good choice for those with hair loss. Weaves might not be a good choice if you’re suffering from hair loss because you need to sew them on your natural braided hair. In this case, it’s best to consider wigs.
- They’re not great for exercise. Weaves might not be for you if you’re an athlete or very active in the gym. They can give a very unpleasant odor due to sweat accumulation.
- Braiding hair can cause discomfort. If your hairdresser braids your hair too tight – it could lead to hair breakage and loss especially if you wear weaves very often. Tight braiding can also cause migraines in the short term. Another more severe effect due to constant hair stress from weaves is alopecia.
- You’ll need to wash your hair and weave weekly. As mentioned earlier, weaves can accumulate dirt and sweat, which carries odor. Therefore, you need to wash them weekly, which can be challenging.
- They don’t give your hair a break to breathe. Unlike wigs, you can’t remove your weave at night before bed – it is “stuck” to you. This means your natural hair will only have a break when you unplait it.
Wigs
A wig is technically a cap made of hair wefts. Just like weaves, they’re made of human hair or synthetic fiber. A wig is ideal for people suffering from permanent hair loss or extreme thinning and balding since it provides a covering on your entire scalp.
Cloud by Ellen Wille.
The Advantages of Wigs
Here are some of the benefits of wearing wigs:
- Availability of styles. You can change your style and color of hair in a flash. If you want curly, long hair today and a sleek bob tomorrow without hitting the salon, a wig will provide you that.
- They come in different sizes. Wigs come in three different categories; petite, average, and large. This ensures that you find the right fit and you don’t end up with a wig that’ll affect your hairline or make your experience awful.
- A wig covers your whole head. Whether you’re dealing with balding, permanent hair loss, or thinning, a wig will ensure your full head is covered – giving you that added boost of confidence while your natural hair rests.
- They’re lightweight. Wigs are designed to feel like your natural hair. They’re light enough to ensure you don’t deal with neck pains from the extra weight.
- They’re pocket-friendly. Wigs can cost anywhere from $50 - $3,000 depending on quality. However, they don’t require the extra cost for installation. Additionally, wigs can last for years with proper maintenance. Consider it an investment that pays for itself.
- You can wear and remove them as you like. Unlike weaves, which are a long-term commitment, wigs are completely removable. If you prefer to rock your natural hair at home and your wig while you’re out, you can do so. Since they are detachable, washing a wig and your hair is easier when compared to weaves.
The Disadvantages of Wigs
Here are some of the downsides of wearing wigs:
- The first days can be challenging. Positioning your wig and neatly styling it can be very stressful at first but with time you will get the hang of it.
- The choice between synthetic wigs and human hair wigs. Choosing between the two can be very confusing. Human hair has a more natural look, but it’s significantly affected by humidity. On the other hand, synthetic wigs retain their original shape even in hot weather and appear shinier than human hair, but they have low longevity and don’t hold style the way human hair wigs do.
- They can get hot. Some wig wearers say wigs can get too hot, especially during summer. Adjusting the products used on your scalp and how you wear your hair underneath will help.
Blake by Jon Renau.
So, Wigs or Weaves? – Final Thoughts
Though they are both meant to boost your confidence when it comes to your hairstyle, it is unfair to compare wigs and weaves. They’re two completely different hairstyles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
For example, if you’re suffering from complete hair loss, a wig will serve you best. But if you want something that requires less daily maintenance daily, then a weave is for you.
Evaluate your needs first, go through the pros and cons of wearing a weave and a wig and choose the one with more advantages for you and your lifestyle.
Do you prefer wigs or weaves? Why? Please share with us in the comment section below.