Wig terminology is the set of words and phrases that describe the features and characteristics of wigs. Learning wig terminology can help a wig maker to:
- Understand the different types of wigs and how they are made
- Communicate effectively with customers and suppliers
- Choose the best materials and techniques for each wig project
- Create wigs that suit the needs and preferences of different clients
- Stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the wig industry
Wig terminology can also help a wig maker to appreciate the art and science of wig making, and to express their creativity and skill. By mastering wig terminology, a wig maker can enhance their professional development and reputation.
We invite you to check out our list of useful wig terms.
360 Lace Wig
A 360 lace wig is a type of wig that has a lace cap that covers the entire perimeter of the head, allowing you to create a natural-looking hairline and style your hair in different ways.
Baby Hair
Baby hair on a wig is a term for the small, fine, and wispy hairs that are located around the edges of the wig’s hairline. They are meant to create an illusion of natural hair growth and make the wig look more realistic.
Bleached Hairline
A bleached hairline is a hair color technique that involves lightening the fine hairs around the front and back of the head, creating a natural-looking and realistic appearance.
Bleaching Knots
Bleaching knots is a technique that wig wearers and manufacturers use to make the wig knots less noticeable. The bleach lightens the knots and helps them to blend in with the lace cap and your skin. This creates a more natural and realistic look for the wig, especially around the hairline and parting areas. However, bleaching knots can also weaken the knots and make them more prone to shedding
Braid Wig
A braid wig is a type of wig that has braided hair extensions attached to a wig cap. Braid wigs can mimic various braided hairstyles, such as cornrows, box braids, twists, and more. They are popular for their convenience, versatility, and protection of natural hair.
Bulk Hair
Bulk hair is a term for loose bundles of human hair that are collected from a single donor or source. Bulk hair is often used to make custom hair extensions, wigs, and weaves. Bulk hair can be processed or unprocessed, depending on the quality and preference of the buyer. Bulk hair can also be dyed, bleached, curled, or straightened to create different styles and colors.
Buss Down Wig
A buss down wig is a type of wig that has a very straight and precise middle parting, giving it a symmetrical and balanced look. The part is so straight that it is said to be “busted down” the middle.
Cap Size
Wig cap size is the measurement of the circumference of your head that determines which size of wig will fit you best. Wig cap sizes vary from brand to brand, but they are usually categorized into mini petite, petite, average, large, and extra large.
Closure (Wig Closure)
A closure is a type of hair piece that covers a small area of the head, usually at the crown or the front, to create a natural-looking hairline and parting. A closure is made of natural or synthetic hair attached to a lace or silk base. It can be used to close off a wig or a full sewn-in weave.
Closure Wig
A closure wig is a type of wig that features a closure piece. A closure is a small piece of lace or silk with hair strands attached to it. It is designed to mimic the appearance of a natural scalp and hairline. The closure base is available in multiple sizes such as 4×4, 5×5, and 6×6.
Color Blending
Hair color blending is a technique of applying different shades of hair dye to create a natural-looking, multidimensional effect. It can help to cover gray hair, add depth and dimension, or create a subtle change in your hair color. Hair color blending can be done with highlights, lowlights, balayage, ombre, or other methods.
Curl Pattern
Refers to the natural shape or texture of the hair used in the wig.
Custom Wig
A wig made to fit the specific measurements and requirements of an individual, offering a personalized and tailored fit.
Denier
Refers the thickness of the lace fabric / lace foundation
Density (Hair Density)
Refers to the thickness or fullness of the hair on the wig.
Double Drawn
Hair that has been sorted to ensure that all the hairs in a weft are the same length, resulting in a fuller and more uniform appearance.
French Lace
The most common, economical type of lace used in wig making known to used for training purposes.
Full Lace Wig
A wig with a base made entirely of lace, allowing for versatile styling and a natural-looking hairline.
Glueless Wig
A wig designed to be worn without the use of adhesives or glue for attachment.
Hairline
The area of the wig that mimics the natural hairline of the wearer, often a key factor in achieving a realistic look.
Half Wig
A wig that covers only half of the head and blends with your natural hair.
Hand-Tied Wig
A wig where each hair is individually hand-tied to the base, allowing for natural movement and versatility in styling.
Heat Resistant Fiber
Synthetic hair that can withstand heat styling tools, offering versatility in creating different looks. Synthetic hair that can withstand heat styling tools, such as curling irons or straighteners.
Human Hair Wig
A wig made from natural human hair, providing the most natural look and feel, along with versatility in styling.
Knot Sealer
A product used to seal the knots on the wig base, preventing shedding and prolonging the wig’s lifespan.
Knotting
The process of tying individual strands of hair to the wig cap or lace by hand during wig construction.
Lace Adhesive
A strong adhesive used to attach the wig to the scalp.
Lace Closure
A small piece of lace with individual strands of hair used to close off the top or front of a wig, giving a natural-looking parting.
Lace Front Tape
Double-sided tape used to secure the lace front wig to the hairline.
Lace Front Wig
A wig with a sheer lace along the front hairline that creates a natural-looking hairline.
Lace Frontal
A larger piece of lace that covers the entire front hairline and allows for versatile styling options.
Lace Release
A solvent used to remove lace adhesive and release the wig from the scalp.
Lace Tint
A product used to tint the lace to match the wearer’s skin tone, creating a more natural appearance.
Monofilament Wig
A wig constructed with a fine mesh material at the crown that gives the appearance of natural hair growth and allows for multi-directional parting.
Pre-Plucked
Refers to a wig with a natural-looking hairline that has been customized to resemble a real scalp.
Remy Hair
Human hair where the cuticle is kept intact and not stripped, ensuring the hair remains tangle-free and more natural-looking.
Shedding
The natural loss of strands from the wig, which can occur over time.
Sizing Straps
Adjustable straps inside the wig cap that allow for a custom fit.
Stretch Cap
A wig cap made with stretchable material to accommodate various head sizes and shapes.
Synthetic Wig
A wig made from synthetic fibers, offering a wide range of styles and colors at an affordable price.
Tangling
When the strands of the wig become twisted or knotted, leading to difficulty in combing or styling.
Tape or Glue Method
Adhesive techniques used to secure wigs to the scalp for a natural-looking and secure fit.
Thinning Shears
Specialized scissors used to thin out the hair and create a more natural look in the wig.
T-Part
A wig with a T-shaped lace parting that allows for versatile parting and styling options.
Tracks
The lines in which hair wefts are sewn onto the wig cap.
U-Part Wig
A wig with a U-shaped opening at the top that allows you to leave out a portion of your natural hair for a more natural look.
Ventilating
The process of knotting individual strands of hair into a wig cap or lace to create a realistic appearance.
Ventilating Needle
A specialized tool used for knotting individual strands of hair into the wig cap or lace.
V-Part Wig
A wig with a V-shaped lace parting that allows for versatile parting and styling options.
Weft
A thin strip of fabric with hair sewn onto it. Wefts are often used to create wig caps.
Do you use any of these terms on a daily basis? If so, let us know! We’d love to hear from you!
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