Chapter 19 – Wigs & Hair Additions

A toupee is a small wig used to cover the top and crown of the head. It is a hairpiece that is typically worn by men who are experiencing hair loss or thinning hair in those areas. Toupees are designed to blend in with the wearer's natural hair and provide a fuller, more youthful appearance. They are often secured with adhesive or clips and can be made from natural or synthetic hair.

Fallen hair refers to the hair that has naturally shed from the head or has been collected from a brush. This term is used to describe hair that has detached from the scalp due to the natural hair growth cycle or as a result of brushing or combing. It is important to regularly remove fallen hair to maintain a healthy scalp and prevent tangling or matting of the remaining hair.

A machine-made wig is the least expensive option because it is mass-produced using automated machines, which reduces the cost of production. These wigs are typically made with wefts of hair sewn onto a cap, resulting in a less natural appearance compared to hand-tied or hand-knotted wigs. Hand-tied and hand-knotted wigs involve a more labor-intensive process, where individual strands of hair are tied or knotted onto the cap, resulting in a more realistic and natural-looking wig. However, this manual labor increases the cost of these wigs, making them more expensive than machine-made wigs.

Burning a strand of hair with a match is the fastest way to determine if it is synthetic or real human hair. When real human hair is burned, it will produce a smell similar to burning feathers and will turn into ash. On the other hand, synthetic hair will produce a plastic-like smell and will melt or curl when burned. Therefore, by observing the smell and the behavior of the hair when burned, one can quickly identify if it is synthetic or real human hair.

Exposure to light can cause the color of a human hair wig to fade over time. The UV rays in sunlight can break down the pigments in the hair, leading to a loss of color intensity. This is a common issue with both natural and synthetic hair wigs. To prevent color fading, it is recommended to store the wig in a cool, dark place when not in use and to avoid excessive exposure to sunlight.

A wig is an artificial covering for the head that completely covers the client's hair. It is a hairpiece that is worn to change one's hairstyle or to cover up hair loss. Wigs are typically made from synthetic or natural hair and are designed to fit securely on the head, providing a realistic and natural-looking appearance. Wigs are a popular choice for individuals who want to change their hairstyle temporarily or who are experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions or treatments.

An extension is a hair addition that is secured to the base of the client's natural hair to add length, volume, texture, or color. It is a popular method used to enhance the appearance of one's hair by adding extra strands of hair. Extensions can be made from synthetic or human hair and are attached using various methods such as tape-ins, clip-ins, or fusion. They provide versatility and allow individuals to experiment with different hairstyles without permanently altering their natural hair.

A weft is a long strip of human or artificial hair that is woven by hand or machine onto a thread. It is commonly used in hair extensions and wigs to add length or volume to natural hair.

When coloring a human hair wig, it is important to conduct color checks every 5 to 10 minutes. This is because the color may develop at different rates on different parts of the wig, and checking the color regularly ensures that it does not become too dark or uneven. By checking the color every few minutes, adjustments can be made if necessary to achieve the desired shade. Conducting these color checks helps to ensure a successful and even coloring process for the wig.

The most common natural color level of commercially available human hair is black. This is because black hair is a common natural hair color among various ethnicities. It is important to note that hair color can vary among individuals, but black hair is generally the most prevalent.

Taking the client's measurements is the first step in creating a custom-made wig. This is important because it ensures that the wig will fit the client's head properly. By measuring the client's head, the wig maker can create a wig that is tailored to their specific size and shape, resulting in a more comfortable and natural-looking wig.

Synthetic hair wigs cannot be styled with a curling iron because they are made from synthetic fibers that cannot withstand the high heat of a curling iron. The heat can cause the fibers to melt or become damaged, ruining the wig. Therefore, it is important to use alternative styling methods such as low-heat styling tools or hot water setting techniques to achieve desired curls or waves with synthetic hair wigs.

Bonding is the correct answer because it refers to the process of attaching hair wefts or single strands of hair using an adhesive. This technique involves applying the adhesive to the natural hair and then attaching the hair extensions to create a seamless and natural look. Bonding is a popular method for adding length and volume to the hair and can be done using various types of adhesives such as glue or tape.

Yak hair is the type of hair that lends itself to adding fantasy colors. This is because yak hair is coarse and thick, making it easier to dye and hold vibrant colors compared to other types of hair such as human Asian, horse, or human Indian hair.

A hairpiece is a small wig that is used to cover the top and crown of the head. It is a common solution for individuals who experience hair loss or thinning in those areas. Unlike a full wig, a hairpiece is designed to blend seamlessly with the wearer's natural hair, providing a natural-looking and discreet solution.

A block is a head-shaped form that is used for fitting, styling, or coloring a wig. It provides a solid base for the wig to be secured and styled on. By using a block, wig makers and stylists can ensure that the wig fits properly and looks natural on the wearer. It allows them to accurately shape and style the wig to achieve the desired look.

The correct answer is heat because in the fusion method, hair extensions are bonded to the client's hair using a bonding material that is activated by heat. The heat melts the bonding material, allowing it to adhere to the client's hair and create a secure bond. This method is commonly used in hair extensions to ensure a long-lasting and natural-looking result.

When using free-form cutting, horizontal sections are used to build heavier weight. This means that the hair is cut in a way that adds more volume and density to the hair, making it appear thicker and heavier. This technique is often used to create a more structured and defined look.

If a client's head measures 22 inches, the average size wig should be selected. This is because the average size wig typically fits head measurements ranging from 21 to 23 inches. Since the client's head measures 22 inches, the average size wig would provide the best fit.

A hand-tied wig is made by inserting individual strands of hair into a mesh foundation and knotting them with a needle. This process allows for a more natural and realistic appearance as the hair moves freely and can be styled in different ways. Hand-tied wigs are typically more expensive and time-consuming to make compared to machine-made or semi-machine-made wigs.

A drying rack is recommended for drying a wig after cleaning because it allows the wig to air dry naturally without causing any damage. Hanging the wig on a drying rack allows air to circulate around it, ensuring that it dries evenly and retains its shape. This method is gentle and avoids the use of heat, which can potentially cause the wig to become frizzy or damaged. Using a drying rack is a safe and effective way to dry a wig after cleaning.

The correct answer is dissolving the bond with oil. When removing bonded wefts of hair, the bond is typically made of adhesive or glue. By applying oil to the bond, it helps to break down the adhesive, making it easier to remove the wefts without causing damage to the natural hair. This method allows for a safe and effective removal process.

An integration hairpiece is a type of hairpiece that has openings in the base, allowing the client's own hair to be blended with the hairpiece. This allows for a more natural and seamless look, as the client's own hair is integrated with the hairpiece.

The most expensive wigs, hairpieces, and extensions are made from Virgin, European, Human hair. This type of hair is highly sought after because it is considered to be the highest quality. Virgin hair refers to hair that has never been chemically treated or processed, ensuring its natural strength and shine. European hair is known for its fine texture and natural colors, making it a popular choice for high-end wigs. Combining these two factors, along with the fact that it is made from human hair, contributes to the high cost of these products.

Asian hair is typically straight and can be found in a range of lengths from 12 to 28 inches. This means that Asian individuals often have naturally straight hair that can be either short or long.

Natural boar bristle brushes are considered the best for use on human hair wigs because they are gentle and do not cause static or damage to the hair fibers. The bristles are soft and flexible, allowing for smooth and tangle-free brushing. They also distribute the natural oils from the scalp to the ends of the hair, promoting shine and overall hair health.

To gauge how realistic a wig looks, the wind test is the best way. This test involves exposing the wig to wind or air movement to see how it behaves and if it looks natural. By subjecting the wig to wind, you can assess if it moves naturally, if the hair strands stay in place, and if it reveals any unnatural gaps or patches. This test helps determine the quality and realism of the wig's appearance when faced with external factors like wind.

Capless wigs are designed with open wefts or gaps between the wefts, allowing air to flow through and reach the scalp. This ventilation feature helps to prevent heat and moisture buildup, making capless wigs more breathable compared to cap wigs. This increased airflow can contribute to a more comfortable wearing experience and a healthier scalp environment.

To use a linking method of hair extension attachment, the natural hair should be at least 5 inches long. This length is necessary to ensure that the extensions can be securely attached to the natural hair using the linking method. If the hair is shorter than 5 inches, it may not provide enough support for the extensions, leading to a less secure attachment and potential damage to the natural hair.

In fusion-bonding procedures, a keratin-based strip is required to wrap the hair and extension. Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, and using a keratin-based strip helps to create a strong bond between the hair and extension. This strip provides a secure and durable attachment, ensuring that the hair and extension stay in place for an extended period of time.

In hair extensions, when the root end of each individual strand is sewn into the base, it is referred to as "turned" hair. This technique ensures that the hair strands are securely attached to the base, providing a natural and seamless look. Unlike the other options provided (fallen, tapped, twisted), "turned" best describes the method of attaching the hair to the base.

India and Asia are the two regions that provide most of the commercially available human hair. India is known for its high-quality hair exports, with a large number of people in India selling their hair for wigs and extensions. Asia, as a whole, also contributes significantly to the human hair market, with countries like China and Vietnam being major suppliers. These regions have a long-standing tradition of hair trade and are known for their diverse range of hair types and textures, making them the primary sources for commercially available human hair.

The drawback to the linking method of hair extension attachment is that the metal link can oxidize. This means that over time, the metal link can react with oxygen and other elements in the air, causing it to rust or corrode. This can not only affect the appearance of the hair extensions, but it can also weaken the link and cause it to break or come loose. Therefore, regular maintenance and care are required to prevent oxidation and ensure the longevity of the extensions.

Clips are not a semi-permanent way to attach a toupee. Unlike adhesive, sewing, and tracks, clips are not designed to provide long-lasting attachment. Clips are typically used for temporary attachment or for securing the toupee in place temporarily. They allow for easy removal and reattachment, making them a convenient option for individuals who prefer versatility and the ability to change their hairstyle frequently.

When measuring a client's head for a wig, it is important to take various measurements to ensure a proper fit. These measurements typically include ear to ear, head circumference, and front to nape. However, "Nape to crown" is not one of the measurements that should be taken. This measurement is not necessary for determining the size and fit of a wig on a client's head.

A cap wig is a wig constructed with an elasticized, mesh-fiber base to which the hair is attached. This type of wig provides a comfortable and secure fit due to the stretchy base material. The hair is typically sewn or glued onto the cap, creating a natural and realistic appearance. Cap wigs are popular among those who want a convenient and easy-to-wear option for changing their hairstyle or covering hair loss.

When cutting a wig, the more solid the shape, the more unnatural the hair will look. This means that if the wig is cut in a precise and defined manner, it will give a less natural appearance compared to a more loosely cut or layered wig. The solid shape creates a more artificial or manufactured look, which may not blend seamlessly with the wearer's natural hair or features.

The wet wig cutting method is more controlled than the abstract method. This suggests that when using the wet wig cutting method, the stylist has more precision and accuracy in achieving the desired haircut. The abstract method, on the other hand, may involve more creativity and artistic freedom but may not provide the same level of control over the final result.

The double-lock stitch is the correct answer because it involves winding the thread twice around the needles, creating a secure and strong stitch. This stitch is commonly used in extensions to ensure that the added hair stays in place and does not come loose easily.

The braid-and-sew method allows for flexibility in positioning the braids or tracks. They can be positioned vertically, horizontally, or diagonally depending on the desired style and look. This method provides versatility in creating different patterns and designs with the braids or tracks.

For the bonding method of attaching hair extensions, natural hair should be at least 4 inches long. This length is necessary to ensure that the extensions have enough hair to securely bond with. If the natural hair is shorter than 4 inches, it may not provide enough support for the extensions and they may not stay in place properly. Therefore, having at least 4 inches of natural hair is essential for a successful bonding method of attaching hair extensions.

Capless wigs are machine-made wigs that are constructed with open wefting, allowing for better airflow and a lighter weight. This type of wig is designed to provide a more comfortable and breathable fit, making it a popular choice for those who wear wigs regularly. The term "capless" refers to the construction of the wig cap, which does not include a solid base but instead has rows of wefts sewn together.

To shorten a wig from front to nape and remove bulk, creating a horizontal tuck or fold across the back is the correct method. This technique allows for the excess length to be hidden at the back of the wig while also reducing the bulkiness. By folding or tucking the wig horizontally across the back, it ensures a seamless and natural-looking result.

The bonding technique for attaching hair extensions has several advantages, including being time-consuming, allowing for gentle shampooing of the hair, and being affordable. However, it is not completely nonallergenic. This means that there is a possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction when using the bonding technique for hair extensions.

When using free-form cutting, cutting vertically is the recommended approach. This means cutting in a direction perpendicular to the surface being worked on. By cutting vertically, it allows for more control and precision in shaping the material. It also helps in maintaining the desired shape and preventing any accidental damage or unevenness. Cutting vertically is a common technique used in various crafts and industries, such as woodworking, metalworking, and sculpture.