It’s an annoying feeling to be hot and stuffy under your bombshell hairstyle, so the question is – which wigs are the coolest? This article will answer that question for you and more!
What types of wigs keep you the coolest?
1. Synthetic wigs
Synthetic hair is composed of artificial hair strands of plastic – usually acrylic or nylon – that are made into ultra-thin fibers and chemically processed to mimic real hair. These hairs are more lightweight than human hair, so they should keep you cooler.
Synthetic wigs come in many different assortments of colors and textures – much like human hair. However, the color or texture cannot be changed as human hair can with products like dye and relaxers. It also cannot be straightened with heating tools because it will melt.
Synthetic wigs are relatively low maintenance because they are meant to be worn in one style. It is also made for short-term wear because it tends to matte severely over time. Synthetic wigs are also the most affordable option, costing as low as $10. Check out our post on the differences between synthetic wigs and human hair wigs.
2. Full Lace Wigs
A full lace wig is a wig made with lace throughout the wig, which makes it cooler than other wigs. Full lace wigs are best for people who are looking for optimal comfort and breathability. Full wigs are lighter than lace fronts, which can make them more comfortable for some people.
The lace bottom also makes the wig more breathable and able to air out better than a lace front wig. This may be a better option for people who are really active and sweat a lot or those who live in hotter climates and want to prevent getting hot under the wig.
Another good feature about this wig is that no matter where you part it, you can achieve the illusion of a scalp – not just in the front. So you can even wear high ponytails and buns, and it still looks natural.
3. Short Wigs
If you want to be cooler under your wig another great option is short wigs. Any wig type of wig that is short will be cooler than a long wig. There are many short wigs to choose from – pixie cuts, bobs, afros, etc. Choosing a short wig can be an alternative to putting the hair into a ponytail or bun all of the time in order to get the hair off of your face and neck.
4. HD Lace Wigs
The type of lace a wig is made with is an important factor in how stuffy it will be under there. HD lace is the thinnest and softest lace you can buy on the market. It creates the most natural look on your scalp and is the most see-through.
HD lace is also the most ventilated – being that it is a thinner Swiss lace. HD lace is very comfortable because of how thin and soft it is. It is very unlikely to irritate your scalp. HD lace can be used for any type of wig – full lace, lace front, etc. However, HD lace wig is the most expensive option.
Due to HD lace being so thin, it is the easiest to “melt” to your scalp, or lay on your scalp to make it look undetectable.
How to Keep Cool Under Your Wig
- Don’t use heating tools – When you use heating tools to style you are automatically going to make yourself hotter underneath the wig. Wigs tend to trap heat, so applying heat directly onto the wig is not the best idea if you want to keep cool. What you should do instead is go for more natural styles. If the hair is curly, keep it in its curly state. You could also use water-based moisturizer to help you keep cool.
- Wear a headband – Headbands are a great way to help keep the hair off of your neck and face. People tend to get hot when the hair is sitting on these areas. You could also pull your hair into a ponytail or bun.
- Stop touching it – When you keep touching your hair throughout the day, you can transfer the oils from your hands onto your hair. When your hair is weighed down it falls on your face more and makes you warmer.
- Wash your wig – Wash your wig in order to keep it lighter and less heavy on your head. When you get rid of the dirt and grease on your hair, your wig will become cooler.[1]
How do you wear a wig at the gym?
A gym is a place where you are very active and may sweat a lot. You can wear your wig to the gym, but you risk causing it not to last as long compared to if you didn’t. It is important to know that if you plan on going to the gym with a wig, keep the hair out of your face, neck, and off your back. You can do this by putting it in a ponytail or braiding it.
Can you swim with a wig?
Swimming in a wig is also possible for those that may want to do so. However, like other activities involving some kind of water, it can cause quicker wear and tear to the wig and decrease its lifespan. Pools can be filled with chlorine and saltwater pools that have plenty of salt which can cause the wig to dry out very fast. The safest thing to do would be to wear a swimming cap to protect your hair. The best option would be to not wear your best wig if you plan on swimming without a swim cap.
Can you sleep in a wig?
Falling asleep with a wig may happen, but doing so regularly is not the best idea. Sleeping in a wig can significantly reduce the lifespan. There is also frizziness, tangles, and dryness that occur because of the friction between the pillow and hair. However, if you prep the wig before sleeping and use a silk pillowcase then sleeping in a wig now becomes less damaging. Just remember the wig is going to require care before, during, and after sleep.[2]
Also, read about Do Wigs Fall Off Easily?
The Final Word
It’s not uncommon to sweat a bit under your wig every now and then, but the good news is that there are several ways to keep cool and enjoy your new look.