Wearing a wig in summer can pose challenges for many wig wearers. In the hot weather, certain types of wigs can leave you feeling hot, sweaty and weighed down, which is no fun! However, there’s no need to sacrifice wearing a wig in the summertime.
If you’re wondering, can I wear a wig in the summer? Our Wig Whisperer, Lizzie, has some top tips on wearing wigs on holiday, summer headwear, and how to stay cool and comfortable when wearing a wig in the hot weather.
‘I am one of those people who usually starts to wilt a bit when the temperature goes about 25°C. I don’t know about you, but I find my scalp can get pretty damp in hot conditions, especially when rushing around. When wearing a wig, it’s hard to cool my head down, and the moisture goes into the wig base. All in all, it’s not ideal; nobody likes a sweaty head and a damp wig’.
Here Are My Essential Tips for Wearing a Wig in the Summer.
1. What Are the Best Wig Styles for the Summer?
A short or more lightweight wig for warmer days would work if you usually feel weighed down by your wig. There are so many fabulous short wig styles for summer, including sleek bobs, textured pixie cuts or wavy lobs. You could even try a wig style that’s shoulder length or longer, so you can use the summer weather as an excuse to experiment with your style; try a loose ponytail or even a messy up-do.
Top Tip: Opt for a messier approach when styling your up-do, as this will give you a more natural, effortless look.
When wearing wigs in summer, it’s also key to choose your wig colour wisely. It is best to stick to lighter colours if you can, as lighter shades don’t absorb as much heat as dark colours, keeping your wig fresher and your head cooler. Deciding on a shade is something to keep in mind when choosing your summer wig colour if you struggle with the heat.
2. Should I Wear a Synthetic or Human Hair Wig During Summer?
Overall, synthetic wigs are the winner during the summer months. Synthetic fibres are lighter than human hair, so keep your head cooler. Also, human hair wigs can react to the hot weather in the same way natural hair does; a human hair wig may lose shape or go frizzy with the humidity. Synthetic wigs, however, have ‘style memory’ and will hold their shape even when exposed to the elements.
Of course, you can still rock a human hair wig in the summer, but synthetic wigs are a fantastic option to try if you are wearing wigs in the hot weather and are concerned about overheating.Whatever wig type you go for, make sure to choose the right accompanying wig care products to keep your wig fresh and flawless all summer long.
3. What Type of Wig Construction Is the Best in Summer?
When it comes to wig construction, I’ve always been a fan of fully hand-tied wigs. As an everyday wig wearer, I find that the wefted construction helps keep things a bit cooler as it lets the air circulate throughout the wig more. My wig is also a bit loose on me, which – although not something I would usually advocate for – contributes to better airflow!
4. Should I Wear a Wig Cap in the Summer?
Having a moisture-absorbing layer between your scalp and wig can help with heat control. Consider wearing a wig cap to hold everything in place and prevent slipping; if you’re not confident putting on a wig cap, check out our dedicated guide.
6. How to Keep from Sweating While Wearing a Wig
Can you wear a wig if you sweat? In the summer months, sweating is natural, especially if you are wearing a possibly heavy wig. As mentioned, wig caps are one effective method to help reduce sweating when wig wearing. For the summer, we recommend opting for bamboo wig caps/liners. The natural material moves sweat to the outer surface of the fabric and dries quicker, helping to avoid excess sweating.
Keeping your wig off your neck is also key when it comes to preventing your head from overheating. Opting for an up-do if you have a longer length wig can help; however, if your aim is to keep from sweating as much as possible, short, breathable wigs are the most effective wig styles to go for.
7. How Can I Cool Down When Wearing a Wig in the Summer?
Keeping your head cool when wearing wigs in summer is a must. If you’re feeling overheated, one of the fastest ways to cool down is to run cold water over the inside of your wrists. Many runners do this to cool down after a run, as the blood vessels are very close to the surface on your pulse points; it’s a great way to cool down quickly.
There is nothing better than a dip in a cold pool when the summer sun gets too much. If you are a water baby, but are conscious of getting your wig wet, don’t worry, there is nothing stopping you from swimming with a wig on this summer. Follow our guide to feeling confident when swimming in your wig this summer.
8. Should I Bring My Wig on My Summer Holiday?
There’s no reason why you can’t take your wig, or wigs, with you on a summer holiday, as long as you are prepared.
When bringing your wig on your summer holiday, you will want to keep it fresh by storing it safely and properly. One of the most important things to consider when travelling with a wig is making sure you are prepared to ensure you are enjoying your holiday to the fullest and not worrying.
A collapsible wig stand is a great tool to bring with you; not only is it portable, but it will also keep your wig ventilated and avoid damage to the wig so you’ll look and feel fabulous on holiday. If you need assistance when putting together a collapsible wig stand, please see our easy-to-follow guide
9. How Often Should I Wash My Wig in Summer?
When it comes to keeping your wig in good condition and washing it in summer, it all depends on how often you wear your wig and how much you sweat. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to wash your wig more frequently in the summer months because sweat and oils build up more. Excess oils can damage your wig and may irritate your scalp.
10. Can I Wear a Wig in Direct Sunlight?
You can definitely wear a wig in direct sunlight; however, you should be thoughtful about how much sun exposure your wig receives. Too much direct sunlight can damage the fibres of your wig and cause the colour to fade.
11. Should I Wear Headwear or Wigs in the Summer?
This summer, consider alternating between wigs and headwear when the weather gets warmer to give your scalp regular breaks. Headwear such as turbans or headscarves can be a stylish alternative to a wig if you are looking for a cooler option, or even an accessory to your new summer outfit. There are a variety of summer headwear styles out there for you to experiment with.
One question I often get asked is whether you can wear a hat as well as a wig. While you can do this, there are two things to keep in mind:
1. You may need to size up your hat to account for the wig underneath, as you don’t want to crush the fibres, and you want to make sure the wig and your head can breathe underneath.
2. Wearing a hat as well as a wig in summer can also make you more prone to overheating. This is a particular concern for more vulnerable wig wearers, those who are older, or ill.
12. What Style of Headwear Should I Wear in the Summer?
Turbans and headscarves are a fantastic alternative to wigs in hot weather. Make sure you choose a breathable fabric, like silk or bamboo, as these will help keep you cool. There are also plenty of headwear style options, depending on your preference.
If you prefer longer styles, try a turban or headscarf with a tail – the Yanna White Summertime Turban from Masumi Headwear is a gorgeous example, with a floral band that falls down just like a ponytail.
If you prefer to wear a hat, why not try a sunhat that can be worn on over a wig or on its own to help you stay cool and look fabulous! The Mali Straw Hat from Christine Headwear is perfect for protecting your head and face from the sun and disguising any hair loss you may feel conscious of.
Whether you are heading abroad for your holidays or just enjoying the UK heat this summer, be confident that you can participate in all your favourite summer activities and wear a wig in the hot weather without sacrificing comfort or style.
If you need more advice on wearing wigs in the summer or advice on which wig would be best for you this summer, speak to one of our experts today. We are more than happy to help to help you feel your best this summer.
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I struggle with heat every time the temperature goes above 20 degrees.
I wear a strawberry blonde Erika wig, which is a nice light bob. But goodness me my head/wig & cap ends up soaking wet. I find it gets really uncomfortable and quite upsetting. I can’t wait to get home and put my head under a cold shower.
I have, like most contributors, been through so much over the years with hair loss and ultimately the acceptance of my situation. It was such a blessing when I found Simply Wigs …. they literally saved me …. I was at my wits end.
Dealing with heat/sweating is the final problem which I need to find a solution for. I have tried many of the things already suggested. Although I haven’t tried a head scarf (other than at home) as personally I think others can tell you have some sort of hair loss. I wish there was a scarf with a fringe and hair attached to the sides (to give a natural look which would be much cooler than a full wig). I might try having a go at making one myself using one of my old wigs, as someone has already suggested. It would be AMAZING if Simply Wigs could look into this ?
I spray antiperspirant on my scalp before putting wig on.
I find sweat running into my eyes a real problem and now I find that I have to abandon my wigs when it is really hot. I have tried silk scarves, they may look wonderful but have a horrible tendency to part company with my head. Not a good look. My current solution is to wear a snug fitting turban (like the Christine Headwear turbans), not too hot and no sweat in my eyes.
I’m in southern Italy at the moment. The heat and humidity is unbearable. I have been melting. Literally. At dinner the sweat was dripping off my face and into my lap. And, like one of your commenters, I became quite ill from the heat. I wish I had the answer…
As a new wig wearer I was absolutely dreading the summer months. As for planning a holiday, well, that was a definite no no. After reading all your comments I feel more confident and not so afraid of the sun shining. A big thank you to all of you.
I find really hot weather -anything above 25C unbearable in wigs, short or not. Hats a no no as theyre hot to wear. In hot weather I wear wet silk scarfs. Keeps my head protected but cool. Am allergic to alo-vera sadly. U can buy a cool head banana that has gell in it that you wet & freeze – meant 4 walkers & pop that on under ure wig or wear across forehead over wig. I always have UV protected umbrella with me so can keep sun off….that helps too. I find it a real problem if I’m honest…..would love a better solution! Simply wigs if your company can get a proper cool wig designed you would be onto a winner!
In reply to Vicky Thomas I found that when wearing my wig I could fit into a mans trilby type sun hat as it was bigger.
I often have to wear it on its own though as I get so overheated with the wig on and have been sick a few times even though I’ve been careful to stay in the shade.
Becoming a bit if a problem when we go abroad so may just have to brave the bald me!
The advice was very good but one comment I’d like to pick up on was wearing a hat in the sun to stop the wig fading. I find it impossible to wear a hat over my wig (no hat is big enough!) Have you any suggestions about suitable hats?
I keep a tube of Aloe Vera gel in the fridge and if I get too hot I rub it over my head and put my wig back on . Witch hazel can also be good
for that purpose. Both are very cooling .
I have done this but I know it is a bit daft:
I was walking with friends in Portugal. Expiring from the heat and feeling as though I was wearing a wooly hat. Stopped in a café, went into the loo, whipped off the (synthetic) wig and dampened it under the tap. Replaced it: cooling by evaporation followed, like putting a wet towel over your head. So so refreshing! !
I was living in Spain each time I lost my hair through chemo, as I lived a fairly isolated life out there I just used bandanas mainly to cover my head from the sun. One tip though that a lady I knew out there gave me. Put a panty liner between your wig cap and scalp, sticky side towards your wig. You’ll be surprised how much moisture it absorbs.
Daft idea, but it might help someone. Why not keep your wig caps in the fridge when its hot! Just pop it on under your wig when you know you have to go out and about. If you have a fridge at work you could pop one in it and get a cap change at break time, then replace it with the cap that has turned warm. Nobody will know. Just put the cap in a small lunchbox ! Or you could store a cold wig cap in a small cool bag that kids use to take their sandwiches to school.
Hi Lizzie
We were on holiday in the Lake District when the hot weather hit. I had to abandon my wig when walking and just wore a headscarf and sun hat during the day when out and about. It was really good to be able to put my hair back on in the evening!
Normally I wear a cotton or bamboo wig cap because my scalp is super sensitive and this does help prevent some of the sweat trickling down into my eyes. I have an aging wig that is just about long enough to pin up at the back to keep my neck cool. The other thing I have found is to keep as much hair off my forehead as possible – no fringes.
Thanks Lizzie, I feel better about airport security now. At the end of the day I’m sure they wouldn’t insist you take the wig off right there and then infront of everyone! Will definitely try it out this summer.
To keep cool in the summer I bought a broad material hairband (to hide my thinning on top) I then stitched a fringe to the front of it to soften the look ( I uded the hair from a ponytail hairpiece that I bought a few years ago that I didn’t use to make the fringe). I tie my own hair back in a ponytail It works great! I know Simply Wigs sell them if you’re not wanting to make your own.
Thanks for your help Lizzie x