4 Reasons Why Wigs Are Trending Big Right Now (2024)

Change it up!

• Britt FallonBritt FallonInstagramBritt has been an editor with NewBeauty for more than 11 years, and worked in both the New York and South Florida offices before going remote post-pandemic. She previously held the roles of Special Projects Editor, Senior Beauty Editor and Beauty Director. Before NewBeauty, she was the Executive Editor at Cosmetic World, a beauty trade publication for industry insiders.

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This article first appeared in the Summer 2022 issue of New Beauty.Click here to subscribe

From Moira Rose’s wall of wigs on Schitt’s Creek (thank you, Catherine O’Hara) to the dozens of hair pieces on rotation within the Kardashian clan, wigs can be a fun, noncommittal way to switch up your look, as well as a daily essential when hair loss sets in. These are four reasons why wigs are trending big right now, according to celebrity hairstylists.

They let you experiment with a new cut or color without committing to it.

“Wearing a wig is a great way to switch up your hairstyle, color or overall look without the commitment,” says celebrity hairstylist and colorist Guy Tang. Wigs can let you experiment with a new style while it’s trending, rather than committing to a full-on cut. I’ve been seeing a lot of textured haircut wigs lately, which go with the trend of textured bobs and lobs happening right now.”

If the wig is for fun and casual wear, Tang says any basic one will do, but if it is for a special event or continued wear, then you should find a high-quality wig that fits properly. “I would start by asking your hairstylist for recommendations—Bellami makes great lace-front wigs that are affordable and good quality, and would be a great first-wig option,” he adds. Celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan has an entire room in her house dedicated to wigs, hair extensions and accessories. “I love to have my more decorative wigs out on display, and the others I keep wrapped in hair nets with a polaroid on top so I can see what’s inside,” she says. “Thanks to social media, there is a lot more education on how to apply wigs properly, and therefore we are seeing more people feel comfortable wearing them.”

They can change your look and style in an instant.

Wigs are also a way to get the style you want quickly. “Say you have extremely curly hair and want to wear it straight, but don’t have the time to do so—a straight wig can be your go-to in a time crunch,” says Tang, whose professional hair-color brand #mydentity is to credit for some of the most uniquely colored wigs making the rounds on Instagram. “It still takes time to apply the wig to look correct, but much less time than straightening a full head of super curly hair.”

If your wig is made of human hair—the longer-lasting option with more styling flexibility—Marjan says to gently wash it and let it dry on a wig head so the lace doesn’t stretch. “If it is made of synthetic hair, you may want to take it to a pro, like your own hairstylist, to style.” Other tips from Marjan: “Store your wigs wrapped in a hair net or silk to maintain their style and prevent frizz, and gently brush them regularly.”

They’re a celebrity favorite.

Though Hollywood A-listers are no stranger to wearing wigs on-set to help them get into character, faux hair has become more popular on the red carpet and in everyday life, offering a dramatic change that matches an outfit, a campaign, or even a mood. “I would say 90 percent of celebrities on the red carpet are wearing some sort of hair extensions or a wig,” says Marjan, whose clients include Khloè Kardashian and Ashley Graham. “If you are cautious about the world of wigs but want to change up your look without damage, I personally love Great Lengths Hair Extensions because they are virtually undetectable and blend seamlessly with your natural hair for a discreet finish.”

They can help hide hair loss and thinning hair.

For those experiencing thinning hair or hair loss due to cancer, alopecia or another medical concern, wigs can restore confidence. However, according to the American Cancer Society, Medicare and most private insurances do not cover them without a very specific prescription. But, there is hope: Last year, a bill known as the Wigs as Durable Medical Equipment Act was reintroduced to Congress, and if passed, it will require Medicare to cover the cost of wigs for these individuals.