Wig VS Weave: What is The Difference and How to Choose
When it comes to transforming hairstyle for black people, wigs and hair weaves are two popular options that offer versatility and the opportunity to switch up your look. However, understanding the differences between these hair extensions is crucial to making the right choice for your unique needs. In this blog post, we'll dive into what exactly hair weaves and wigs are, highlight the key distinctions between them, and provide tips on how to choose between the two.
Among the various types of wigs available today, lace wigs are the most popular and commonly seen. The lace portion of these wigs mimics the appearance of a human scalp, with hair individually hand-placed on the lace base, creating the illusion that the hair is growing directly from the scalp. There are several subtypes of lace wigs, including wear go glueless wigs, closure wigs (featuring lace only in the crown area), lace front wigs (with lace extending from ear to ear), 360 lace wigs (with lace around the perimeter of the wig), and full lace wigs (featuring a cap made entirely of lace). Except wear go glueless wigs, installing such lace wigs typically requires the use of adhesive to secure them in place.
What is a Wig?
A wig refers to a hairpiece, either made from synthetic or human hair, that is sewn onto a wig cap. The core of a wig is the cap base inside. In simpler terms, wearing a wig is akin to wearing a hat with hair sewn into it. Wigs come in various types, such as lace wigs, glueless wigs, v-part wigs, u-part wigs, and more. Moreover, they come in different hair textures, lengths, and colors, making it possible to find the perfect wig for everyone.Among the various types of wigs available today, lace wigs are the most popular and commonly seen. The lace portion of these wigs mimics the appearance of a human scalp, with hair individually hand-placed on the lace base, creating the illusion that the hair is growing directly from the scalp. There are several subtypes of lace wigs, including wear go glueless wigs, closure wigs (featuring lace only in the crown area), lace front wigs (with lace extending from ear to ear), 360 lace wigs (with lace around the perimeter of the wig), and full lace wigs (featuring a cap made entirely of lace). Except wear go glueless wigs, installing such lace wigs typically requires the use of adhesive to secure them in place.
What is a Hair Weave?
A hair weave is a hair extension technique where natural or synthetic hair is sewn into your own hair or onto a braided base to add length, volume, or texture. The process involves creating small, tight braids close to your scalp, onto which wefts of hair are then sewn or bonded. Hair weaves come in various styles, including sew-in, glued-in, and clip-in options. They offer a more permanent solution compared to wigs, lasting several weeks to months depending on maintenance and hair type.What is the Differences Between Weave and Wig
Install Method
Weaves are attached by sewing or bonding extensions to your natural hair or braided base. Wigs are worn over your natural hair and are secured with clips, combs, adjustable straps inside the wig cap, or adhesive（lace wigs）.
You can put on and take off wigs by yourself, but you will need to ask a professional hairstylist to apply and remove hair weaves.
Installation Time
The installation of hair weaves can be quite time-consuming, taking approximately 4-6 hours. In contrast, the installation of wigs is relatively quicker. Glueless lace wigs can be installed in just 3 minutes, while lace frontal wigs that require adhesive may take 1-3 hours.
Duration of Wear
Hair weaves can last for 6-8 weeks, whereas the longevity of wigs, especially lace frontal wigs secured with adhesive, is typically around 2-6 weeks. Other wig types like headband wigs, u-part wigs, and v-part wigs can be worn daily and removed as needed.
Lifespan
Generally, hair weaves can be reused up to three times. Human hair wigs have a lifespan of 1-3 years, while synthetic wigs typically last for 4-6 months.
Versatility
Wigs offer the advantage of quick and frequent hairstyle changes. If you opt for a glueless lace wig, you can switch up your hairstyle daily to complement different outfits, making them ideal for fashion-forward individuals.
Weaves provide a consistent look until they are removed, maintaining a uniform appearance over time.
Maintenance
Weaves require regular care to maintain the integrity of your natural hair and extensions.
Wigs are easier to maintain and require less upkeep for your natural hair.
Weaves are attached by sewing or bonding extensions to your natural hair or braided base. Wigs are worn over your natural hair and are secured with clips, combs, adjustable straps inside the wig cap, or adhesive（lace wigs）.
You can put on and take off wigs by yourself, but you will need to ask a professional hairstylist to apply and remove hair weaves.
Installation Time
The installation of hair weaves can be quite time-consuming, taking approximately 4-6 hours. In contrast, the installation of wigs is relatively quicker. Glueless lace wigs can be installed in just 3 minutes, while lace frontal wigs that require adhesive may take 1-3 hours.
Duration of Wear
Hair weaves can last for 6-8 weeks, whereas the longevity of wigs, especially lace frontal wigs secured with adhesive, is typically around 2-6 weeks. Other wig types like headband wigs, u-part wigs, and v-part wigs can be worn daily and removed as needed.
Lifespan
Generally, hair weaves can be reused up to three times. Human hair wigs have a lifespan of 1-3 years, while synthetic wigs typically last for 4-6 months.
Versatility
Wigs offer the advantage of quick and frequent hairstyle changes. If you opt for a glueless lace wig, you can switch up your hairstyle daily to complement different outfits, making them ideal for fashion-forward individuals.
Weaves provide a consistent look until they are removed, maintaining a uniform appearance over time.
Maintenance
Weaves require regular care to maintain the integrity of your natural hair and extensions.
Wigs are easier to maintain and require less upkeep for your natural hair.
Wig vs Weave：How to choose
Lifestyle
Take a close look at your daily routine and the time you can allocate to hair maintenance. If your life is fast-paced and you favor low-maintenance solutions, wigs may align better with your lifestyle.
Desired Hairstyle Changes
If you relish the art of reinventing your look frequently, wigs emerge as the top choice. Their versatility allows you to effortlessly switch between different hairstyles and appearances.
Hair Health
Consider the current health of your natural hair. Weaves can exert more stress on your natural locks, potentially affecting their well-being. If preserving the health of your hair is a priority, wigs provide a gentler alternative.
For women, especially those dealing with hair thinning or baldness, wigs are a superior choice. Weaves can exert more pressure on your scalp and existing hair, making wigs a gentler alternative.
Longevity
Reflect on how long you intend to maintain your new hairstyle. Weaves are an excellent option for those seeking enduring transformations and extended wear.
Take a close look at your daily routine and the time you can allocate to hair maintenance. If your life is fast-paced and you favor low-maintenance solutions, wigs may align better with your lifestyle.
Desired Hairstyle Changes
If you relish the art of reinventing your look frequently, wigs emerge as the top choice. Their versatility allows you to effortlessly switch between different hairstyles and appearances.
Hair Health
Consider the current health of your natural hair. Weaves can exert more stress on your natural locks, potentially affecting their well-being. If preserving the health of your hair is a priority, wigs provide a gentler alternative.
For women, especially those dealing with hair thinning or baldness, wigs are a superior choice. Weaves can exert more pressure on your scalp and existing hair, making wigs a gentler alternative.
Longevity
Reflect on how long you intend to maintain your new hairstyle. Weaves are an excellent option for those seeking enduring transformations and extended wear.
