Body Women’s Health

The Dark Side of Wigs: Potential Health Risks

Health Risks From Wearing Wigs
Written by Jessie Kimani



Many Black women wear wigs to enhance their style, protect their natural hair, or manage hair loss. While wigs offer versatility and allow for creative expression, they can also pose health risks, particularly when worn frequently or improperly. This article delves into the public health concerns specifically related to Black women and the impact of wearing wigs on our hair and scalp health.

Growing Popularity of Wigs

For many Black women, wearing a wig is a convenient way to switch up their hairstyle without damaging their natural hair or committing to a permanent change. Celebrities and influencers often showcase various looks, making wigs a trendy and versatile accessory. Performers, actors, and cosplayers also use wigs to embody different characters and transform their appearance.

As wigs gain widespread popularity, the reasons for wearing them have expanded. Many women in our community experiencing hair loss from conditions like traction alopecia, chemotherapy, or other health issues use wigs to restore confidence and feel better. Additionally, wigs are worn in some cultural and religious practices to protect natural hair from environmental damage or to meet modesty requirements.

Public Health Concerns Linked to Wearing Wigs to Cover Hair

Wearing wigs offers many benefits, from adding versatility in styling to boosting your confidence. However, you also need to be aware of the public health concerns associated with wig-wearing.

1.     Allergic Reactions

Wearing a wig can occasionally cause allergic reactions or scalp irritation. Most of the synthetic wigs are made from fibers, which have been treated with chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. This may cause allergic reactions like itching or developing a rash after wearing wig for some time. The friction between the wig cap and your scalp can also cause irritation, especially when the wig has been worn for an extended period.

2.     Traction Alopecia

When constant tension is applied to hair follicles when wearing a wig, a certain type of hair loss known as traction alopecia occurs. Wigs that are improperly fitted or too tight tend to pull on the natural hair, causing significant stress on the edges and damaging follicles over time. Furthermore, when the scalp under the wig is not properly cared for, other issues such as dandruff, clogged hair follicles, or fungal infections may occur that hinder the natural growth of healthy hair.

3.     Hygiene

Wigs can trap dirt, oil, and sweat on your scalp. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi that cause health issues like infections and dandruff. Since wigs themselves accumulate dirt and pollutants over time, they can be a source of odor and discomfort. Most wig wearers also do not clean their wigs properly and regularly, increasing the risk of scalp problems developing.

4.     Heat Retention

Wigs made of synthetic fibers, especially those with a dense cap restrict airflow to the scalp. This can cause overheating and sweating, especially in warm weather or during physical activity. The heat and moisture that get trapped can make your scalp more sensitive and prone to irritation.

5.     Psychological Health

Wearing wigs can affect your psychological health in several ways. The physical discomfort from wearing a wig, such as overheating or itching can lead to self-consciousness and anxiety. Some people also become overly reliant on wigs to feel confident, which can affect their body image and self-esteem negatively. Still, the constant concern of the wig falling off or shifting can restrict participants in certain activities, which can make you feel socially anxious and isolated.

How to Prevent Health Issues from Wigs

Most of the health concerns associated with wearing a wig can be prevented or reduced by making a few adjustments in your life. While stopping wearing a wig is the obvious choice, it may not work for everyone. The following tips can be useful:

  • Choose the right material for your wig, especially one that allows breathability to ensure both comfort and scalp health
  • Maintain a healthy scalp while wearing wigs by regularly cleaning and moisturizing the scalp, washing your wig, and making sure it is dry completely before wearing
  • Give your scalp a break occasionally to promote natural hair growth, including nighttime breaks, weekly breaks, and taking time to massage the scalp.
  • Consider alternatives to traditional wigs, such as clip-in hair extensions, headscarves and turbans, and hair toppers

Wigs are great for changing up your hairstyle and even versatility to your look. However, they can also cause potential damage to your natural hair and other long-term impacts. Taking certain measures such as a regular hair care routine that includes moisturizing, taking wig breaks, choosing alternatives like hair toppers and clip-in hair extensions, and enhancing scalp care can help reduce the negative impacts of wearing wigs.

Additional Reading:

Can you pull it off? Appearance modifying behaviors adopted by wig users with alopecia in social interactions. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1740144514000059

A mixed methods survey of social anxiety, anxiety, depression, and wig use in alopecia. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/7/4/e015468.abstract

Your wig could be poisoning you: study finds pesticides and other toxic chemicals in synthetic hair in Nigeria. https://theconversation.com/your-wig-could-be-poisoning-you-study-finds-pesticides-and-other-toxic-chemicals-in-synthetic-hair-in-nigeria-231457

Wigs and Alopecia Areata: Psychosocial Impact and Economic Considerations. https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/2/55

Potential Hazards Associated with Wearing of Synthetic Hairs (Wigs, Weavons, Hair Extensions/Attachments) In Nigeria. https://www.fortunejournals.com/articles/potential-hazards-associated-with-wearing-of-synthetic-hairs-wigs-weavons-hair-extensionsattachements-in-nigeria.html

About the author

Jessie Kimani

Jess is a dedicated natural hair enthusiast, stylist, and writer. From tips on how to style your curls to product recommendations, she is your go-to source for all things natural hair care. She is passionate about helping women embrace their natural beauty; a firm believer that every woman should feel confident and beautiful in their natural hair.

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