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What Is a Headband Wig?

S. Gonzales
S. Gonzales

A headband wig is a type of wig that is made with a piece of material resembling a headband. The wig can be slid around the head and put into place using the headband rather than clips or other fasteners. Headband wigs can come in as many styles as standard wigs do, but their differences lie in the number of insert combs, headband softness, and the ability of the headband to be detached, as well as headband width.

One of the most characteristic features of a headband wig is its underside. When flipped over, the viewer will immediately draw similarities between a cap and a headband wig. An area underneath the wig is formed to surround the head, much like a cap. The people who use headband wigs are usually those who simply want to add a little length, volume, or body to their hair without having to do the work of maintaining a standard wig.

Wigs made from natural hair are often used by cancer patients who have lost their hair from chemotherapy treatments.
Wigs made from natural hair are often used by cancer patients who have lost their hair from chemotherapy treatments.

Even though headband wigs are designed to cover the head like a cap, a wig user is not precluded from combining her own hair to her hairstyle. For example, a headband wig can be placed on the head, and a wig owner can pull her bangs out to give the wig extra style. This technique can also make the wig appear more real.

While the general construction of a headband wig is very similar across brands, there can also be differences. Those who are shopping for wigs may find that wigs of the headband variety differ in the number of insert combs that they have and the softness and width of the headbands themselves. Personal preference comes into play when shopping for headband wigs, but there are also some tips that can be kept in mind when choosing headband types. For example, detachable headbands can be great for those who find headbands uncomfortable or who would rather use clips to secure their wigs into place.

Potential wig owners may have to decide how wide and soft they want their headband to be to maximize their comfort when wearing their wig for long periods of time. One way that consumers can do this is to simply try the wig on and walk around with it for an extended period of time, so that the long-term feel of it can become apparent. For ultimate headband softness, potential wig owners should invest in elastic headbands. Elastic headbands can better conform to the specific contours of the a person's head. They can also provide secure attachment to the head without the unnecessary itching that can come with hard headbands.

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    • Wigs made from natural hair are often used by cancer patients who have lost their hair from chemotherapy treatments.
      By: prudkov
      Wigs made from natural hair are often used by cancer patients who have lost their hair from chemotherapy treatments.