Wigs vs a weave this winter?

Curly wig with some leave out natural hair

Knowing the advantages of covering up my hair in winter to protect it against the dry cold weather,my dilemma is always the type of protective style that I am going to do. I know my hair thrives on protective styling so not doing it is not an option as well. As much as other protective styles may look really pretty on other people and my heart may go all out in wanting to copy every pretty style I see, I still have to be realistic in choosing a protective style that fits well into my hair needs, lifestyle and challenges. Of late, I have been experimenting with wigs and was also toying the idea of a weave or crochet  weave/braid. In trying to make a choice, I came up with the thoughts below.

Advantages of wigs to a weave

• Less cost. You only need to pay for the wig that’s all. No installation costs.
• Versatile. You can change your hairstyle at any time depending on your mood. No long term commitment to a style is required.
• You can still take care of your actual hair really well without having to deal with added hair.

How to use a  wig for protective styling

• If not secured well, a wig may fall off becoming a source of embarrassment.
• Hair underneath the wig needs to be wrapped or plaited properly. Just bunching it up and wearing a wig may lead to tangles which will lead to breakage.
• Make sure hair is dry before wearing the wig to avoid hair and scalp mold
• Glued lace wigs may pose allergy problems. Choose the glue for lace wigs wisely or opt to not use any glue at all.

Secure a wig well to prevent such accidents happening. (picture source: Facebook)

Advantages of a weave to wigs

• A weave is sewn to cornrows so the hair piece is secured well and no falling off accidents expected.
• Long term commitment resulting in less manipulation of the hair. Better length retention
• A weave lasts longer. Rest s the hair and the individual from constantly having to do hair. If you’re comfortable with that, then it is a pro.

How to use a weave as a protective style

• Weaves make it a bit harder to maintain the hair under the weave. So care must be taken not to forget the actual hair you are trying to protect, to keep it moisturised and healthy
• There is no switching of styles so be prepared for a longer commitment to a chosen style.
• Although a weave will generally cost more because of installation charges if you are not a DIY junky like me, the investment may be worth it if the style is kept in for a month or two.
• Make sure the cornrows onto which the weave is attached are not too tight to prevent traction alopecia.

My choice of protective styling

As much as wigs seem quite old fashioned, I feel they suit my lifestyle and the need to wash my hair at least twice a week. So wigs it will be for me this winter. I may still try the weave, who knows. However, keeping things real, wigs serve the purpose for me more than weaves right now.

What’s your fav protective style this winter? Wigs or weaves?