Wig Caps Explained

Wig have various features which give the wearer choice and adaptability depending on their particular needs.

If you are new to the world of wig the chances are you are unfamiliar with the terms used to describe these features. We realise it can feel like you’re learning a new language and choosing a topper can be daunting task!

Our guide breaks down the features and will help you to get an idea of what you would like in a wig.  

Knots:-

Knotting is the process carried out when a wig is made to secure the hair strands to the base.

Single knots are achieved when a strand of hair is secured to the base by tying one knot.

Double knots are achieved by using two or more strands of hair and securing them to the base together.

Triple/reversed (hidden) knots are achieved when hair is hand tied, then inserted between a base layer and top layer. The knot is tied three times, making it very secure and unlikely to shed. Because the knot is hidden between the two layers it becomes invisible, making it look as if the hair is growing out of the scalp.

Hand Tied:-

A hand tied wig has the fibres hand sewn into the cap (rather than machine sewn) allowing easy styling and parting of the hair. It has a lighter finish than a wefted design. 

Monofilament:

One step above hand tied. The hair strands are hand-tied and knotted individually into a sheer material. The hair is injected through the material which gives the illusion that the hair is actually growing out of the scalp. The hair can be parted and brushed in any direction and can move just as natural hair moves.

Due to the time intensive process involved in making monofilament toppers, these are considered to be a high quality product and are more expensive than a standard wefted cap.

Double Monofilament:-

A double monofilament cap has an additional layer on the bottom of the monofilament layer which protects the individual hand knotting. This feels softer on the head compared to regular monofilament.

Silk Top:-

One step above monofilament. A silk top is the most realistic looking cap available. It is constructed with a layer of lace and silk fabric which can be skin coloured to give a scalp-like appearance. When the hair is knotted, the knots are concealed below the top silk layer. The hair is injected through the silk material which gives the illusion that the hair is actually growing out of the scalp.

French Knotted:-

French knotted caps are very similar to silk tops and have a triple layer base:-

1. A silk bottom layer which is smooth and comfortable against the scalp.

2. A lace middle layer which the knots are secured to.

3. A silk top layer which hides the knotting and gives a very natural appearance.

Wefted:-

Wefted wigs are the most basic and affordable on the market and are more likely to be made with synthetic fibre. A wefted design is a seam that holds the base of the hairs together on the cap. They can have a feature called Permatease, which is usually located at the crown and creates permanent lift and volume.

Some wigs are part monofilament, part wefted. The monofilament base is placed in the centre where the hair can be parted and the wefted part is placed around the edge of the monofilament base.

Permatease: -

This is a permanent teasing of synthetic fibres at the roots and is designed to give the fibres extra volume. The permateased fibres can be short and wiry in appearance.

This is a popular option for those wanting to achieve extra height with a wig.

Lace Front:-

This feature is ideal for those suffering from hair loss toward the front of the scalp and like to have natural looking hairline. A small panel of sheer lace is sewn into the front part of the wig and sits where the front hairline should be when the wig is applied. When worn properly the end result is an undetectable hairline giving the illusion that the wig hair is actually growing out of your own head. 

Bondable:-

This means that part of the wig cap is made with a material that can be bonded to the head using tape or adhesive.

Polyurethane/PU:-

Some parts of cap construction have sections of polyurethane which enables them to be secured using a special tape or adhesive. 

Do you have any questions? Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help you.