Your beginner's guide to choosing a wig if you're experiencing hair loss

Experiencing hair loss can feel overwhelming, and for many, the world of wigs is a completely unfamiliar one. Despite how common hair loss is (around 8 million women in the UK feel affected to varying degrees), there's surprisingly little straightforward guidance on how to navigate the next steps. If you’re considering a wig or hairpiece for the first time, it can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even a bit intimidating.

From unfamiliar terminology to endless hair type options and price points, knowing where to begin isn't always obvious. But choosing a wig doesn’t have to feel like a last resort– it can be an empowering, confidence-boosting decision. Whether your hair loss is temporary or more permanent, there’s a hair solution out there for you, and plenty of ways to make it work for your lifestyle and needs.

Here, we're taking you through the wig shopping process...

Step one: understand your needs

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Before diving into wig shopping, it's helpful to understand what’s causing your hair loss. Is it the result of a medical treatment like chemotherapy? A hormonal condition? Or something more permanent like alopecia? “Knowing this helps you pick the right wig for your situation,” says Ada Buliga, hair expert atIrresistible Me, a hair brand that specialises in high-quality faux hair. It’s also worth speaking to a healthcare professional or trichologist for clarity on your diagnosis and future hair growth.

Next, consider your budget, lifestyle and frequency of use. Are you after something more high quality and long-lasting for daily wear, or something you can wear only occasionally? “Wigs range from affordable to fancy,” Ada adds. “Having a price range in mind will make things easier. And don’t forget comfort- no matter your price bracket, a wig should feel nice on your head, so look for lightweight, breathable options that suit you.”

Your options explained

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wigs, and that’s a good thing. Here’s a quick breakdown of your main options:

• Synthetic wigs are low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and come pre-styled– perfect if you're new to wigs or want something that’s easy to wear and go. The downside is they often can't be heat styled, and the condition of the hair won't stay glossy much past a few months.

• Human hair wigs offer the most realistic look and feel. You can curl or straighten them, but they come with a higher price tag and require more care.

• Custom-made wigs are tailored exactly to your head shape, hairline and colour preference — ideal if you're after a flawless fit and are open to investing. Both custom-made and human hair wigs can have maintenance done to them (where you send them back for hair infills, usually around the hairline), meaning you might not need a brand new wig every year or so.

In summary, think about how much time you want to spend on upkeep, how active you are and what styling flexibility you want. “If you’re on a tight budget or want low fuss, go synthetic,” says Ada. “If you love switching up your look and don’t mind spending more, human hair or custom-made might be for you."

How long do wigs last?

Wigs typically last anywhere from 4 months to over a year, depending on the type of wig, how frequently it’s worn and how well it's cared for...

• Synthetic wigs (worn daily): usually last 4 to 6 months

• Human hair wigs (worn daily): can last 12 to 18 months

• Occasional wear (2–3 times per week): can extend the lifespan by up to 2 years for human hair

Making it look natural

Getting a natural-looking finish is all about fit, shade, and confidence. Start by choosing the right colour — you can match your natural tone or pick something that flatters your skin. “Try a few options if you’re unsure,” Ada suggests.

Fit is just as important. Measure your head and look for adjustable wigs that sit snugly but not too tightly. “Style it casually — adding texture, waves or a bit of movement makes it look more lived-in.” If you have natural hair at the edges, blending it in helps, or you can use wig tape, makeup or a wig cap for a seamless transition.

Caring for your wig

To keep your hair piece looking fresh and lasting longer, treat it with care. Do wash it with wig-specific shampoo and conditioner, store it on a stand at night, and if it’s human hair, use heat protectant before styling. Avoid regular hair products or over-styling, as these can all shorten its life span.

Can you wear a wig at night?

There's nothing stopping you, of course, but it's recommended that you let your scalp breathe overnight. If you need coverage, consider a sleep cap or a soft, breathable wig designed specifically for nighttime wear. If you wear your regular wig to bed, you'll likely end up making it tangled and matted quite quickly, shortening its lifespan.

Start slow, wear with pride

Finally, be kind to yourself. “Feeling nervous is so normal,” says Ada “Start by wearing your wig at home or around people you trust. The more you wear it, the easier it gets.” And remember, wigs aren’t just about necessity; they can be fun too. “It’s a completely new head of hair! Tons of people wear wigs, and honestly, most won’t even notice.”

You’re not alone in this. With the right piece and some trial and error, you can feel more like yourself again– or even discover a whole new version of you.

Wigs to shop for all budgets Raoul Wigmakers

If you're new to wigs, the place to go for in-person advice is Raoul Wigmakers. The team goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and work with you to find a personalised piece suited to your needs. If you have the budget, give them a visit at their London shop (you'll need to book an appointment here). They offer synthetic, human hair and customisable hair pieces and wigs, depending on how much you're keen to spend.

Irresistible Me

Online site Irrestible Mehas an expansive range of ready-to-wear wigs and hair pieces in all textures, colours and lengths. They have a quiz to help you find the best hair for you, and they're available on chat if you have any questions. Plus, they donate £1 for every purchase to help support women on their breast cancer journey with National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Estelle Wigs and More

Estelleis turning wig shopping into something elegant and thoughtful. It offers everything from heat‑safe synthetics to luxe human‑hair lace fronts, all curated with wearer confidence in mind.

A final note...

Not everyone suffering from hair loss can afford top-notch wigs, so if this is the case and you're looking for support, there are many wig retailers who work with the NHS to provide free hair for those who need it. You'll need to be assessed by your doctor or dermatologist for a referral for this, but once they've approved it, you can get free synthetic wigs or subsidised costs for a human hair one.