Common Wig Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Wigs, toppers, and toupees can be completely life-changing. When chosen and cared for properly, they look natural, feel comfortable, and boost confidence in a way few other beauty solutions can. But for many wearers—especially beginners—small mistakes can quickly turn a great hairpiece into a frustrating experience.
The good news? Most wig mistakes are incredibly common and very easy to avoid once you know what to look for.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most frequent wig mistakes we see—wrong cap size, poor colour matching, over washing, heat damage, and improper storage—and explain exactly how to fix (or prevent) them.
Whether you’re new to wigs or have been wearing them for years, this guide will help you get the most out of your hair investment.
Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Cap Size
One of the biggest (and most overlooked) mistakes wig wearers make is choosing the wrong cap size. Many people assume wigs are “one size fits all,” but in reality, fit plays a huge role in comfort, security, and realism.
Why cap size matters
- Headaches or pressure points
- Slippage or riding up
- Damage to the wig cap over time
Why cap size matters
A wig that’s too small can cause:
- Headaches or pressure points
- Slippage or riding up
- Damage to the wig cap over time
A wig that’s too large can result in:
- A loose, unstable fit
- Excessive movement
- An unnatural silhouette
In a hot climate, a poorly fitting wig can also trap heat or rub against the scalp, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods.
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How to avoid this mistake
- Measure your head properly before purchasing. Use a soft measuring tape and measure around your hairline, from the forehead to behind the ears and around the nape.
- Check size charts carefully. Don’t assume “average” will fit—petite and large sizes are more common than people realise.
- Look for adjustable features like Velcro tabs, elastic straps, or silicone grips for a more customised fit.
- Seek professional help from a wig salon or supplier. Sometimes it can be easier to obtain assistance from the experts. It may cost more initially, but if you waste money on getting the wrong size wig, you may save in the long run by getting it right the first time.
A well-fitting wig should feel secure but never tight.
Mistake 2: Poor Colour Matching
Another very common issue is choosing the wrong colour—either because it looks great on the model or because it’s close enough to your natural hair.
Unfortunately, “close enough” often isn’t good enough when it comes to wigs.
Why colour matching is tricky
Lighting, screen settings, and photography can all distort colour online. On top of that, natural hair usually contains:
- Multiple tones
- Subtle highlights
- Root depth or variation
Choosing a flat, single-tone wig can make the hair look less natural,
especially in bright sunlight.
How to avoid this mistake
- Match undertones, not just shade. Is your natural hair warm, cool, or neutral?
- Look for rooted or multi-dimensional colours. They tend to look far more realistic.
- Compare in natural daylight whenever possible.
- If you’re between two shades, choose the slightly lighter option. Darker colours are harder to adjust.
- Seek professional advice and guidance from salons or wig suppliers. This may cost more, but well worth the investment.
If you’re based in Australia or other hot countries
remember that the strong sunlight can make colours appear brighter or flatter than expected,
so realism matters even more.
Mistake 3: Over Washing Your Wig
It’s easy to assume wigs should be washed just as often as natural hair—but overwashing is one of the fastest ways to shorten the life of a wig.
Why over washing is damaging
Unlike natural hair, wigs don’t produce oils. Every wash:
- Strips moisture from fibres
- Causes friction and tangling
- Reduces shine over time
This is especially true for synthetic wigs, which rely on factory-applied coatings to maintain their appearance.
How often should you really wash a wig?
As a general rule:
- Synthetic wigs: Every 10–15 wears
- Human hair wigs: Every 7–10 wears
Always check the care instructions of your specific wig or hairpiece.
If you live in a warmer or more humid part of Australia, you may need to wash slightly more often—but not after every wear.
Tips to extend time between washes
- Use a wig liner to absorb sweat
- Air out your wig after wearing
- Spot-clean the lace or cap if needed
- Use dry shampoo designed for wigs (sparingly)
Less washing = longer-lasting, better-looking hair.
Mistake 4: Heat Damage (Especially on Synthetic Wigs)
Heat damage is one of the most heartbreaking mistakes because it’s often irreversible.
Many people don’t realise that standard synthetic wigs cannot tolerate heat, even from everyday tools.
Common sources of heat damage
- Curling irons or straighteners
- Hair dryers on high heat
- Ovens, BBQs, or open flames
- Hot car interiors (very common in Australia and other hot countries)
Once synthetic fibres melt or frizz, they can’t be restored.
How to avoid this mistake
- Check the fibre type before styling. Only heat-friendly synthetics can handle heat tools.
- Use low heat settings only (even on human hair wigs).
- Never leave your wig in a hot car or near windows.
- When blow-drying human hair wigs, use a heat protectant and keep airflow gentle.
If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to avoid heat altogether.
Mistake 5: Improper Storage
When you’re done wearing your wig, how you store it matters just as much as how you style or wash it.
Poor storage can lead to:
- Tangling and matting
- Flattened fibres
- Misshapen caps
- Lace damage
Common storage mistakes
- Tossing wigs on a dresser or chair
- Stuffing them into drawers
- Leaving them exposed to dust and sunlight
- Hanging them improperly
How to store wigs correctly
- Use a wig stand or mannequin head for daily wear
- Store long-term wigs in a silk or satin bag
- Keep wigs out of direct sunlight
- Gently brush before storing to prevent knots
Wig stands come in various styles…wire, full head – padded, wood, plastic etc. short to stand on a table or tall to stand on the floor.
If space is limited, collapsible wig stands are
an affordable and effective option.
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Bonus Mistake: Not Asking for Help
Many wig wearers struggle unnecessarily because they feel embarrassed or assume they should “just know” how things work.
The truth? Wig wearing has a learning curve…and that’s completely normal.
How to avoid this mistake
- Read care guides from reputable wig suppliers
- Watch professional styling tutorials
- Ask questions before purchasing
- Reach out to wig specialists or customer support
A small question early on can save you hundreds of dollars
and a lot of frustration—later.
Final Thoughts
Wigs, toppers, and toupees are an investment—not just financially, but emotionally too. When something goes wrong, it can feel discouraging. But most issues aren’t caused by the hairpiece itself—they’re caused by small, fixable mistakes.
By:
- Choosing the right cap size
- Matching colour thoughtfully
- Washing less often
- Avoiding unnecessary heat
- Storing wigs properly
You’ll dramatically improve how your wig looks, feels, and lasts. A great wig should work with you, not against you. And with the right care, it can become one of the most reliable, confidence-boosting tools in your everyday life.
