If you have noticed hair loss—especially in circular patches—you may suffer from alopecia. Alopecia is an autoimmune condition that attacks the hair follicles, and it can be exacerbated by stress. You may be tempted to pull your hair in tight braids or ponytails to camouflage the patches. However, those corrections can sometimes be worse since pulling hair strands too tight can cause another type of hair loss called traction alopecia.

One way to cover your hair loss is with a custom-made wig. While some custom wigs can be pricy, the investment is worth it since they fit your head shape, look like natural hair, and last years with good care. Here are a few things to keep in mind with a custom-made wig.

Get Fitted with the Right Wig

It's important to go into a wig maker shop to have your wig fitted. Like traction alopecia, an improperly fit wig can cause hair loss and breakage since it may fit too tightly.

Besides getting the fit, you also need to figure out if you want a wig made of synthetic hair or natural hair. There are pros and cons to both types. Synthetic hairs can look like natural hair, but they may be more cost-effective. The downside is that if you have alopecia, you may already have a sensitive scalp, and some synthetic materials may cause itchiness or tenderness. A custom-made wig with natural hair may be a better fit since they work well with people who have sensitive scalps.

Some customized wigs come with stocking caps, which can keep your hair flat so that it doesn't look bulky under the wig. If you choose to get a wig with a stocking cap underneath, make sure that it has an adjustable band. These bands protect your hairline from breakage. They are often made with materials like velvet so that they are comfortable to wear.

Take Care of Your Wig Correctly

You may be tempted to skip your natural hair washing schedule, but it's important to maintain your natural hair hygiene. Otherwise, dirt, skin, oil, and bacteria from your scalp can get on the stocking cap and custom wig. Dirty hair can make your custom-wig smell and wear it out sooner.

It's important to invest in the proper chemical cleaner for your wig. For example, you cannot clean synthetic wigs with shampoos like you would with natural hair. A wig maker can help you find the proper cleaner for your wig. If you need to detangle or style the hair on the wig, use a brush that has rubber tips to avoid split ends.

Lastly, make sure that you get a wig box or a mannequin head to store the wig when you aren't using it. You may be tempted to just hang the wig up on a coat rack or in a closet, but gravity can warp its shape that way. If the wig is warped, then it won't hold its shape and may be uncomfortable to wear. If you need to keep the wig in a box temporarily or travel with it, make sure you use a clean, insulated plastic bag. You don't want to store it in something like cardboard because if it gets humid, the cardboard will absorb moisture that can damage the wig.

Keep all of this advice in mind and you are sure to find a custom wig that will work with your alopecia. Contact a custom wig maker in your area for more information.