Throughout history, women and men have worn wigs to establish their social class, to hide the gray, or to simply try a new "look".

Today, wigs comes in all shapes, sizes and styles including natural hair and synthetic. Some lengths can be styled as you would your own hair, in curls and updos - or teased, combed, picked, shampooed and conditioned.

Short, or long and straight wigs tend to be easier to manage, and tangle much less frequently, than long, wavy or curly wigs. No matter what style you choose, however, one basic rule of wig care is not to comb it while wet, unless you want the results to look like a tangled mess!

If its your first time buying a wig, be sure to ask about the wig cap, which can play an important part in both your comfort and the wig's longevity.

Wigs also come in various prices ranges, so it alway pays to shop around for just the right style, length and fit for your budget. Alopecia sufferers can look into special insurance coverage to offset the cost, and those undergoing chemotherapy can also receive expert advice through the American Cancer Society's "Look Good, Feel Better" program.

Elsewhere on the Web, find more advice on wearing, washing, drying & storing your new wig, discussions on the pros and cons of natural vs. synthetic wigs, with tips on how to choose and buy the best wig that's just right for you ....

Wigs and Hairpieces - Advice on wig basics, tips on cost & quality, and a discussion on the pros & cons of both synthetic and natural hair, related links.

Expert Wig Salon Advice - Expert tips including suggested wigs styles for your face shape, choosing the right color & size, how to wear a clip-on hair piece, with general instructions on styling, cleaning & proper care, FAQ.

How to Care for Your Wig - FAQ from Headcovers Unlimited with general tips for the wig novice on how to wear them, plus advice on washing & styling, and do's & don'ts of wig care.

Wig Caps - FAQ - A how-to on wig construction with pros & cons plus descriptions of wefted or capless, micro-skin, monofilament, hand-tied, hair integration and 3/4 wigs.

Your Essential Guide on Hair Wigs - Hairdresser to the stars, Trevor Sorbie, offering help to cancer patients with information and advice about how to choose & buy a wig, information on synthetic vs. real hair wigs, facts on made-to-measure and customized wigs, and a checklist of things to consider before you purchase your first wig.

Look Good...Feel Better - Wig Choice - More tips for cancer patients on choosing a wig plus detailed advice on wig styling, wearing, washing, drying & storing.

also see -> Hair Extensions