CAN WIGS CAUSE HAIRLOSS?

I've got questions on my facebook and instagram handles asking me to address the issue of wig wearing  & hair loss. I've been wearing wigs constantly for over 2 years so i can speak not only from a point of knowledge but experience as well. It is not all wigs that cause alopecia.

A good wig should fit comfortably not tightly as that can put a lot of tension round your hairline or inflame your follicles which may cause boils.

 Let's address the wigs that are culpable for hair loss and know the wigs you need to avoid

 1. Glue Lace wigs  - this trend was the leading cause of traction & scarring alopecia  in Nigeria about ten years ago. There are still cases of keloids and boils from previous wearers that has persisted till date and some never got their hair lines back. 


 2. U- part wigs - these wigs cause a form of traction alopecia that we jokingly call red-sea part. Here the hairloss occurs only at the point where the hair is constantly  exposed. In severe cases it can become a bald spot. This is also common with people who wear extensions and leave out their hair often.


 3. Wigs with clips or combs : Since most wigs come with the clips and combs, you may also notice that your hairloss may be from this trend. Anytime you clip your edges, tension is  created as the strands clipped becomes the anchor for the wig. It's even worst if the wearer has corn rolls on. This action may not only pull but damage your follicles.  And once that's done. Your edges will not grow again.


 4. Very tight wigs: I see some wigs with custom made straps and also elastic bands attached to it. I understand it gives the flawless look of natural hair lines but it may not be healthy for your hairline


 5. Following closely behind tight wigs are tight head gears (I still don't know how some women graceful go through that ordeal ). It does not only cause tension headaches, it can be uncomfortable at times and above all can lead to hair loss.

 To wrap this up, i was asked to share my routine. First, All my wigs are glueless,they only have adjustable straps, no extra elastic or clips. I wear wigs for a maximum of 8 -10 hours ,4 days a week if I intend to use it as my protective style for a whole month.

 Wig maintenance and care is another aspect of wigs that we must know if we consider using it as a protective style for a period of time.

So while we try to keep it trendy with wigs,  we should also be mindful of the type of wigs we use and the kind of damage they can cause.