Wig Out: A Guide to Wig Shopping Around Boston

Punky pink pixie cuts, shocking-blue Katy Perry bobs, flowing bleach-blond locks—we’d love to try them all, but we’re still suffering PTSD from hair blunders of yore. That’s why we’re embracing wigs: They let us take a style for a spin without risking shattering regret and months of hat-wearing. Ready to go faux? Start here.

WHERE TO GO

Parisian Style Beauty Supplies
657 Eastern Ave., Malden, 617-272-6312, parisianstylebeauty.com.

If you’re looking to take a (temporary) walk on the wild side, look no further than this Malden salon and supply shop. You’ll find wigs of every length, style, and color—from Nicki Minaj pink to Rihanna red to Kylie Jenner green. Once you’re set with your hue of the moment, Parisian’s team will style your new mane to perfection.

Extology
338A Commercial St., Boston, 617-564-1558, extology.com.

Come to this full-service salon for a huge selection of high-quality natural and synthetic hair—cut and styled to please—or try out Boston’s fairy godmother of natural- looking extensions, salon owner Allana Fabrikant Kanevsky, who’s certified by all of the top brands.

The Salon at 10 Newbury
10 Newbury St., Boston, 617-247-4900, salonat10newbury.com.

Owner Patricia Wrixon is the region’s expert on every hair-replacement service under the sun, be it a fully customized piece, professional wig-fitting and alterations, or wig cuts and coloring. Wrixon even created her own non-profit program, “Wigs for Well Being,” which offers customized wigs to women experiencing hair loss from medical treatments.

WHAT TO KNOW

Human-Hair Wig: Usually cut and acquired from people in India, China, and parts of Europe, these tend to be more lifelike and durable than synthetic-hair wigs, but also pricier.

Remy-Hair Wig: Made of human hair, often Indian in origin, these wigs keep the cuticles intact and aligned to create a more natural appearance and prevent tangling.

Synthetic-Hair Wig: Constructed from synthetic fibers such as polyester, acrylic, and PVC, these are lighter and require less upkeep than human-hair wigs.

Lace-Front Wig: Hair—either human or synthetic—is hand-tied to a sheer lace scalp covering, which is either glued or taped to the head. Lace-front wigs create a realistic-looking hairline.

ASK THE PRO

Patricia Wrixon, owner of the Salon at 10 Newbury, dishes on faux strands.

What should I look for in a wig or hairpiece?

It’s crucial to find something that fits well so you can wear it comfortably. Higher-quality pieces are often softer and more lightweight. If you’re going for a hairpiece, make sure that its texture matches your own texture. You want just the right amount of curl so it blends into your hair.

Can I use styling tools?

You can style a human-hair wig any way with any kind of tool at any temperature heat. You have to be careful with synthetic wigs because they damage more easily. As long as your wig isn’t made from polyester, you can style it with low heat.

How should I care for my wig?

You can wash a human-hair wig or hairpiece with any sulfate-free shampoo and a little conditioner. We always provide a mannequin head for storage. I recommend covering the wig with a lightweight scarf for extra protection, and carrying it in a box while traveling.