If you are just starting your journey into wig wearing, you will have probably heard such terms as; monofilament, lace front, hand knotted and open cap, but what do they mean?
It’s easy to assume that underneath every wig is a simple ‘one size fits all’ cap liner. Afterall, the main sought-after feature is the perfect style and colour. So, let’s debunk that myth and appreciate how far wig cap technology has progressed in recent years with an in-depth description of the wig caps available on the market today.
Open Cap:
Also known as capless or wefted, this is the most basic and machine-made cap. Open cap construction provides a secure, comfortable fit by combining featherlight, close fitting cap materials with a well-ventilated design. These styles offer many benefits for first time wig wearers.
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Featuring a fine net material in the top area with an open cap in the back. “Wefts”, or curtains of hair, are attached to a thin strip of stretch elastic material. The wefts are disguised with a technique called “permatease” to hide them from view at the part area. Each weft of hair is volumised with short, finely textured fibres stitched to the “root,” preventing any visible gaps and adding shape and body to the style. The part is backed with sturdy lace or open wefts, while the nape and sides of the cap are open between the bands.
Open cap styles lend themselves to shake-and-go wearability. Because of their lightweight materials and volumised wefts of hair, open cap wigs require little re-styling daily and keep the head cool and comfortable even in warmer temperatures. The low maintenance care of an open cap wig also results in extended life for the wig. Plus, in general, open cap wigs are less expensive than fully hand-knotted wigs.
PROS:
Breathable
Lightweight
Affordable
Durable
Built-in volume
CONS:
Not as versatile as hand-knotted wigs.
The parting and crown of wefted wigs sometimes look quite noticeable. Unless, as with finer wigs, a combination of different weft types are used including “thin wefting” and carefully permanent teasing the hair before sewing into the weft.
Monofilament
Monofilament caps are a popular choice for those who wish to achieve the illusion of natural hair growth. This cap allows for multidirectional styling whilst also providing a cool, smooth feel against the scalp for long lasting comfort.
A translucent segment made from a strong synthetic mesh is placed into either the part area or the entire crown of a Classic Cap Wigs. The fibres are then individually hand tied onto the monofilament section, so that each hair can move freely in any direction, creating an ultimately natural appearance. This mobility also allows the hair to be parted and styled in any direction.
Mono Crown
Mono crown provides a natural looking crest by making it appear like hair is growing just around the crown. If you’re looking for a lush-looking crown, look for a mono crown wig.
Mono Top
A mono top covers the entire crown area with double knotted soft mono, where the hair looks like it’s growing out of the scalp and brushes in either direction. This way, you can part your hair whichever way and it’ll look just as natural.
Mono Top Lace Front
A mono top lace front combines all the features of a hand-knotted mono top with a hand-knotted deep lace front, giving you the ultimate comfort, undetectability, and versatility. This is the kind of wig you’ll love wearing all day.
Double mono wigs are another accessible option. These wigs are created using a double layer of monofilament material. This design provides excellent protection from scalp irritation.
Please note, every person’s sensitivity is different, and you don’t necessarily need the most luxurious features to feel comfortable whilst wearing a wig.
PROS:
Natural-looking scalp
Natural hair movement
Parting & styling versatility
A lightweight material that is cooling and pleasant
A double mono has an extra layer of soft fabric for added comfort
CONS:
Mono wigs can be a bit more expensive than other types of wig caps.
Hand-tied knots may irritate some scalps – but don’t forget double monofilament wigs are always an excellent alternative for sensitive scalps, as is wearing a wig cap liner that not only feels soft to the scalp, but also keeps your own hair in place comfortably tucked into the cap.
Sheer monofilament material needs proper care.