Why Do Black Women Wear Wigs?

As I’m scrambling to pick out the best wig for the new year, I bumped into the question: why do black women wear wigs? I asked myself the same thing. Then I realized I honestly just looked up one day, and suddenly wigs were in—I mean really in. My mother and aunts had maybe one or two wigs, and even then, the idea of wearing one felt a little off.

Personally, I used to look at my roommate with a little side-eye each time she’d return from lectures and throw her wig on the bed. Something about it felt like living a “fake life”—and maybe my reaction was even a sprinkle of jealousy. We had conversations about her wigs, and she would say, “The peace I get when I throw my wigs on the bed and let my scalp breathe is unmatched.”

Then someone would ask her, “What if someone walks up and pulls your wig off?” Her hilarious response? “I’ll pick it up and wear it back!”

If only I knew then what I know now.

Well, I can now answer the question: why do Black women wear wigs? Even though I don’t necessarily consider myself a Black woman—instead, as an African woman who is part of the culture of importing wigs into Nigeria—here are some of the reasons why I wear wigs:

Protecting My Natural Hair and Giving It a Break

Yes, keeping my hair in a protective style—usually cornrows braided all back or in a center part—protects it from all sorts of damage, such as harsh weather and constant manipulation.

Additionally, wigs allow us to give our hair a break, letting it grow out and relax from constant strain, all while avoiding the appearance of being unkempt or “letting ourselves go.”

Read Also: “Just say no”

Some of us need to wear wigs

While wearing wigs has become more of a fashion choice, there are some of us who are forced to wear wigs because of some medical or genetic condition. Hence, not only black women, but men and women all over the world turn to wigs after suffering conditions that are out of their control from alopecia to dandruff, accidents such as fire, and balding because of aging and genetics.

Switching Things Up and Trying New Hairstyles with Ease

With wigs, I can experiment with different hairstyles, colors, textures, and lengths without committing to shaving, cutting, dyeing, or waiting months (or years) to grow my natural hair back.

Stress-Free Style

Let’s be real: women rarely complain about how painful or uncomfortable wearing braids or dreadlocks can be—especially in the first few days. But we all know the truth. Tight braids, for instance, can cause significant pain or discomfort for beauty and durability.

Even after those first few days, long and thick braids can feel heavy and uncomfortable to tie up in a bun. Sleeping in them can also be tricky because they tug when you roll over. After weeks or months, switching to wigs offers a welcome break while still maintaining a polished look.

Looking Good Effortlessly

Sometimes, you just want to look good for the world, especially on outings or events. In those moments, wigs often become the go-to solution.

If you’re considering wigs for the first time or looking to refresh your collection, the reasons above might convince you to try them!