Half wigs offer ways to add volume or length to thin hair, conceal hair loss, or create an intricate updo for an event.
In simple terms, these wigs cover part of the head while keeping some of your natural hair visible.
Besides, anyone can wear them, especially those looking for an instant fix of a quick weave.
Today, we created a simple guide to help you learn about half wigs, including a step-by-step tutorial on how to wear it.
Let’s get started!
What Is A Half Wig?
Half wigs are partial wigs meant to cover a portion of the head, usually the lower half. It has various names, including a 3/4 wig, half head wig, wiglets, toppers, or a half-cap wig.
Typically, half wigs have an advanced construction of a soft mesh cap. When worn, you leave the front of your hair out to blend with the wig. This makes it a good option for those who do not wish to cover their entire hair when wearing a wig.
There are several reasons why women decide to wear half wigs. Half wigs add length and fullness from the crown to the back of the head. They also allow you to create more elegant hairstyles for a flattering look. Moreover, they help hide partial hair loss on the top of the head.
The Difference Between a Half Wig and Full Wig
Using both half and full-lace wigs can help create elegant hairstyles. Therefore, it is best to make the right choice on which one fits your needs. Here are some things you need to know about half wigs and full lace wigs.
Audience
A half wig is particularly suitable to add partial hair. You can use it to make your hair considerably longer and voluminous. They are a good option to disguise partial hair loss at the top of the head.
However, if you have thin hair, this would not be the best option as it will look unnatural.
On the contrary, a full wig would be great for people with total hair loss, severe partial hair loss, or very thin hair.
These wigs give complete coverage of your head, leaving no natural hair outside. They offer protective styling to help change the thickness and length of hair.
Installation
Unlike full wigs, half wigs come with headbands that you can use to secure them. They also come with clips attached to their cap’s front and back. These combs are a means of attaching the wig to your hair to keep it firm and secure.
During installation, you will leave the front part of the hair outside the wig for a beautiful blend.
On the other hand, the installation of full wigs involves the usage of clips, combs, and glues. Still, having combs in them is optional since these wigs give complete head coverage. However, if you do not want to use wig adhesives, it is best to sew clips or combs on the lace.
I recommend using clips or combs to install a wig if your scalp is sensitive to glues. This mode of attachment is gentle and offers no risk of skin irritation.
Price
A full wig is usually more expensive than a half wig.
Still, half wigs are not only affordable but are also breathable. This is why they are very popular among most wig wearers.
A full wig, however, is a bit costly since its hair strands are hand-tied into a sheer lace material. The entire lace material at the base of the wig also covers the whole head section. Moreover, it can provide a more natural look than a basic wig cap.
How To Choose A Half Wig
Selecting the right half wig can be challenging, given the different types in the market. Here is a guide to help you pick the right one.
Usage
The type of half wig you pick relies on the look you wish to create. Before selecting a half wig, it helps to think about the reason for wearing it. For instance, you might be looking to switch up hairstyles. Or maybe some areas on your head require more hair coverage.
And if it is due to partial hair loss, then you will need to determine where you are losing hair and how much hair you actually have.
Consider choosing a half wig if you have enough frontal hair and want to add thickness from the crown to the back. It will give your natural hair more length and even conceal partial hair loss.
Also, try a topper if you are looking to add more volume to the crown of the head. You can attach the topper hairpiece to the scalp to disguise thinning or bald patches.
Moreover, pick a wiglet if you are looking to enhance a hairstyle. Wiglets add a little more fullness to the head for easy styling.
Hair Density
It is essential to look into hair density when purchasing a half wig. The quantity of hair added to the half wig cap will determine the styles you can put on it.
For this reason, buying a wig with the same density as your natural hair would be best. Getting the right density ensures you create hairstyles that look natural and perfect.
For instance, consider going for a half wig with low hair density if you have thin hair. Otherwise, it will look fake, and people will notice that you’re wearing a wig.
Moreover, the right density will ensure that you do not cause damage or discomfort to your scalp.
Hair Color
Consider selecting a half wig with a shade that complements or resembles your hair color. This way, the wig will blend flawlessly with your natural hair and make it look more realistic.
The hair color temperature is also important to complement your skin tone for an attractive look. Cool tones are good in cool colors, while warm skin tones are good in warm colors. [1]
For instance, the quickest way to tell your skin tone is to note the color of the vein on your wrist. Olive/green veins are due to a warmer complexion and would match well with warm hair colors. A blue vein is due to a cool complexion and would match well with cool hair colors. [2]
However, if you need assistance choosing a wig color, you can seek an expert to help pick the right shade.
Hair Texture
Half wigs are available in heat-resistant, synthetic or human hair varieties. They have various curled and straight styles to match a natural hair texture.
Therefore, consider whether any of the varieties would be better for your situation. For instance, if you select a half wig with straight hair, your hair should also be straight. Additionally, you can pick a curly half wig to achieve a curly look.
The heat-resistant and human hair half wigs have an advantage as you can style them using hot tools. However, you can not style synthetic wigs using heat. Otherwise, you risk damaging the delicate fibers.
How To Put on A Half Wig
Several half wigs come with clips for attachment. You should know the correct way of wearing them to create your desired hairstyle easily. Here is a simple procedure on how to put them on.
Step 1: Set Your Hair
Use a rattail comb to part the hair at the front of the head from ear to ear. Push that hair forward, then secure the rest of the hair to the back of the head using bobby pins. Next, backcomb and tease the hair you will use to attach the half wig.
Step 2: Attach the Wig
Afterward, attach the front clip at the top of the head where you created the parting. Shove the clip to the scalp and slide it back into the hair.
Step 3: Blend Your Hair
Now take the front hair, and backcomb, then blend them with the wig unit. Spritz a little hair spray to secure the hair strands.
FAQs About a Half Wig
Where Can I Buy Half Wigs Online?
You can buy half wigs from local beauty or online stores. However, if you buy a wig online, look into the reviews to learn about its longevity, type, texture, and shedding.
Half Wig and Full Lace Wig, Which Is Better?
Both half wigs and full lace wigs can give you a natural look. A full lace wig covers the entire head and gives an illusion of a naturally growing scalp. On the other hand, a half wig covers half of the head and leaves a part of your natural hair out.
However, if you are looking for an affordable option, half wigs will be a better choice for you.
Final Thoughts
Now you know all about a half wig, including how to put them on. Also, you should be able to pick the right one despite the varieties available.
How do you choose your half wigs? Let us know in the comment section below!
