FAQS
CHOOSING A WIG
How do I find the right style?
If you are buying a wig for the first time, choose a length and style which closely resemble your current hairstyle. That way you will “look like yourself” and most people will not even realise you are wearing a wig! When you are ready for something different, try longer or shorter versions of similar styles or a subtle change of colour, highlight or even roots for a more natural look. Unless of course your aim is to achieve something totally different!
Certain facial shapes are flattered by certain styles. Taking your face shape into consideration will help you to achieve the best result. View our face shape guide .
What size do I need?
95% of women will fit an “average” wig cap size, 54-57cm. The wigs we supply all have adjustable tabs or straps for a secure fit. Some styles are manufactured in petite and large sizes and there are a small number of wigs designed to fit children. See our size chart for more information.
Which is best, synthetic or human hair?
Modern manufacturing methods make it difficult to tell the difference between synthetic hair wigs and human hair wigs supplied by Simply Wigs. In a nutshell, a synthetic hair wig is easier to care for and requires little styling – just “shake and go”. On the other hand, a good quality human hair has more styling flexibility and is more durable, but needs more care and is a bigger investment. See our full comparison table.
Can you explain the different kinds of cap construction?
There are 5 main types of cap construction:
- Traditional cap wigs are durable and most affordable. The traditional cap wigs Simply Wigs supply have open wefted cap bodies (sides and backs) which make them lighter, cooler and more comfortable to wear.
- Capless wigs are more lightweight and airy as they are made entirely of open wefts.
- Monofilament wigs have an inset of transparent micromesh to which individual strands of hair are hand tied. This allows hair to be brushed or parted in any direction and gives the illusion of a natural scalp and hair growth. They are generally recognised as a higher quality wig product and are more expensive.
- Lace Front wigs are designed to give the most natural looking hairline and allow the hair to be worn away from the face. The lace front is quite delicate and will need more care.
- Hand Tied wigs were specifically designed for people experiencing total hair loss. Each hair is hand tied to a micromesh cap for maximum comfort and you can brush the hair in any direction creating the illusion of natural hair growth where you part it. This makes for a premium product.
Some wigs will offer combinations of cap, for example a monofilament top with a lace front.
Detailed, illustrated descriptions of each type of cap can be found in our guide and specifically for each style offered in the cap detail tabs.
What type of wig would you recommend for total hair loss or hair loss due to chemotherapy?
Hand tied wig caps are well ventilated and lightweight and offer the maximum comfort. Combined with a lace front, they will give the most natural looking hairline too. Next best would be a wig with a monofilament top.
How do I choose the right colour for me?
As with choosing a style, staying close to your current colour is advised to begin with. If you are undergoing medical treatment, your skin tone may change and going a shade or two lighter or warmer can help. It is especially important to get the colour of synthetic hair wigs right as synthetic hair cannot be dyed – lightened or darkened.
We provide online colour charts to guide your choice of wig colour. However colours may vary depending on your monitor’s settings we recommend that use our colour ring service to ensure that you get the result you expect.
WEARING A WIG
Do you recommend using a wig cap?
Stretchy nylon liner caps help to hold existing hair under your wig, create a smooth surface free of bumps and help to protect your wig from hair and scalp oils. They also provide a comfortable barrier and help to make your wig feel more secure if you have total hair loss. View our wig caps .
HEADLINE IT, patented disposable No Sweat Liners can be used if you find that sweating is a particular problem for you. However, for most wearers of our wigs, most of the time, this will not be necessary. View this product here
How do I put a wig on?
If you have long hair, either gather it in a small twist towards the back of your head if it thin enough or wrap it tightly around your head. To do this, part it into 2 sections at the nape, cross the sections bringing each one round your head and pinning each end at the side hairline. Apply a wig cap, it should be on your hairline and behind your ears for a smooth fit.
If you have short hair, brush it back and smooth it down. Apply a wig cap, it should be on your hairline and behind your ears for a smooth fit.
Even if you have no hair wearing a nylon wig cap will help you a achieve a more secure feel. Place it over your head so that it is behind your ears and adjust to roughly where your hairline should be.
For added comfort and security, some women prefer to also use a Suregrip band.
Step by step guide to putting a wig on:
Put the wig on your head from front to back.
- Hold the wig with both hands towards the nape where the label is
- Place the front edge of your wig above your eyebrows on your forehead and pull the wig backwards until it reaches the back part of your neck
- Pull the wig down gently at the back to ensure it covers your nape
- Position the flexible side tabs evenly at your temples in front of your ears and bend them towards your face to conceal your hairline
- Adjust your wig to your natural hairline – this is usually the height of 4 fingers above your eyebrows
- If the fit is too tight or too loose, remove your wig, adjust the tabs/straps and try again!
All our wigs have adjustable tabs or straps for a secure fit. In most cases this is all you will need to do!
For added comfort and security, some women prefer to also use a Suregrip band.
Some monofilament and lace front wigs come with tape tabs which allow you to use double-sided adhesive tape or wig adhesive for a more secure hold.
You can purchase “snappy” combs that can be sewn inside your wig. These clip to fine/thin or short hair for added security.
How often will I need to replace my wig?
This will depend very much on how much you wear your wig, your lifestyle and how well you care for it! Estimates vary between 3-12 months, but most synthetic hair wigs should last at least 6 months and human hair wigs a year or more with proper care.
Why do you recommend having at least 2 wigs?
Particularly if you wear your wig every day, having a back-up means that you should never be caught out. You will always have one on hand if the other is being washed! Rotating between wigs will also help to extend their life.
Will my wig frizz?
Unlike human hair, synthetic hair wigs will not frizz in wet and humid weather conditions. However, synthetic hair fibre is sensitive to heat and excessive steam exposure such as opening an oven or clothes dryer during operation, blow dryers and curling tongs, will cause it to frizz (irreparably). Frizzing can also be caused by friction such as long hair rubbing against the back of a chair.
LOOKING AFTER SYNTHETIC HAIR WIGS
How often do I need to wash my wig?
Wash your wig as little as possible. This will vary between 12-25 times of wearing depending on your lifestyle and environment (around smoke, perfume etc), length of wear and application of products.
How do I wash my wig?
Follow the instruction that come with your wig. Use only products designed for use on synthetic wig fibre and cool or cold water. After shampooing, use a conditioner and allow the wig to dry naturally away from heat. Never rub or wring your wig.
For full details see our section on wig care and wig care products.
What styling tools can I use on my synthetic hair wig?
It is important to only use combs and brushes that will not damage the synthetic fibres. Brushes must have single teeth from the base and bristles that will flex and bend. Wide-toothed combs and hair picks are also great for light styling. See our selection under accessories.
Do not use hairdryers, heated curling tongs or hair straighteners unless you have a Heat Defiant fibre wig.
How do I store a wig when it’s not being worn?
Keep your wig on a wig stand between wearing to maintain its shape and style. Make sure it is in a clean, dry, dust-free environment, away from any heat source and out of direct sunlight.
Our folding wig stands are ideal for travelling. When packing a wig, turn it inside out and place it in a box to preserve the fibre and maintain shape.
We do not recommend this. If you have total or major hair loss, you might find it more comfortable to wear a cap or turban at night.
How can I pay for my wig?
We accept payment by cheque, bank deposit, credit cards online, and by cash in person.
In addition, as an approved provider of wigs by the NZ Ministry of Health, Simply Wigs can help you obtain a Government Subsidy, the Wigs and Hairpiece Service Payment. This grant of between $408.88 and $2330.66 depending on your hair loss condition can be used to fund the purchase of wigs, hats and turbans.
Am I eligible for Government funding?
If you are a New Zealand citizen or Permanent Resident and suffer either permanent or temporary hair loss you will be entitled to a Government Subsidy (the Wigs and Hairpiece Service Payment).
You will need a medical certificate from your GP or specialist stating:
- Your NHI number
- The reason for your hair loss
- Whether your condition is temporary or permanent
Once you have this certificate Simply Wigs can assist you with applying for the grant.
Please note: Funding is not available for hereditary hair loss (cause of most male baldness!)
For further information visit the Ministry of Health website.
How does the Government Subsidy work?
Eligible applicants receive a claim number to access their grant.
The amount and time period over which it is allocated depends on your age and whether your hair loss is temporary or permanent. See our table detailing this.
Once you have chosen your wig, we will claim back the amount of our invoice from the Government using your claim number and provide you with copies of the paperwork. You can of course choose to pay us and make the claim yourself.
Can I pay using my existing claim?
Most definitely! If your remaining balance is sufficient to cover your purchase we will process the paperwork for you so that it becomes a “cashless” transaction. If the product(s) you choose exceed the amount you have left to claim, you can choose to top up by paying the remainder by cash, cheque, bank deposit or credit card.
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What are your delivery times?
Once payment is received or your Government Subsidy claim is approved, we aim to despatch items shown as being “ Colour in stock now” within 2 workings days, and styles in "colours available to order” in 10 working days.
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Can wigs be returned for any reason?
No, for reasons of hygiene we only accept returns of wigs ONLY IF THE WRONG ITEM HAS BEEN SENT TO YOU OR IF IT IS DEFECTIVE.
Returned product must be in original condition and packaging and not used in any way. Please see our Terms and Conditions.