Where to get a wig.

[Natnewgirl]

Hello, I wanted to ask where I can find a wig. I have nad some wigs before, but now that I am officially transitioning I want a good wig. I honestly know nothing about wigs other then the ones I've bought for around $50 definitely look like wigs. Any help and guidance would be so much appreciated.  Thanks, Nat

[Jackie C.]

There is a wig boutique about three miles from where I'm at that sells high-end wigs. They are expensive, but the material is SO much better. It's an actual cloth fiber instead of the synthetics. The downside is that they're expensive. The upside is that they can be styled and they're threaded so they can be repaired. The one I'm currently wearing is Raquel Welsh and cost about $450. On the plus side, insurance covers it as a scalp prosthetic. I'm only allowed one a year. Your insurance might reimburse you as well because of gender dysphoria, but it depends on the provider.

 

Hugs!

 

 

[Natnewgirl]

I am trying to find out what my insurance does and does not cover. It is proving to be difficult. Another question I have about wigs is, is it best to be fitted  for a wig? I have kind of a large head and the ones I have tried before are very uncomfortable.  Do wig boutiques style wig?

[Carolyn Marie]

IMO, its always better to try on a wig in a boutique rather than getting one by mail order.  These days mail order takes forever anyway, because of supply chain issues.  A good wig seller can evaluate your head size and shape, the color of your skin, and can ask about preferred styles and colors, and then offer several choices that work for you.  I've always gotten monofilament, many of which can look very natural if you choose carefully.  But others swear by human hair.  It all depends on your budget and preferences.

 

Most wig sellers will not care a whit that you're trans; they just want a sale.  You can ask about a private showing if you are uneasy about being in a public place.

 

Carolyn Marie

[Jackie C.]

13 hours ago, Natnewgirl said:

am trying to find out what my insurance does and does not cover. It is proving to be difficult. Another question I have about wigs is, is it best to be fitted  for a wig? I have kind of a large head and the ones I have tried before are very uncomfortable.  Do wig boutiques style wig?

 

Best practice is to call them and ask. I'm covered because of my alopecia but some providers allow scalp prosthetics for trans patients too.

 

I personally didn't get fitted, but I'm like THE adjustable band size. Default fits me great. They'll absolutely fit and style it for you at the boutique though. Honestly it was a great experience.

 

My wig-seller actually warned me off human hair. It's WAY more expensive, doesn't wear as well and it's harder to dye if you're trying to color match. She basically said human hair is great if you want black.

 

But check out Raquel Welch and Renee of Paris depending on what your hair situation is and see what you like.

 

Hugs!

[Rishaya]

Does anybody know if Medicare will cover hair prostheses?

[Carolyn Marie]

3 hours ago, Rishaya said:

Does anybody know if Medicare will cover hair prostheses?

 

My research has shown that Medicare Part A & B do not cover the cost of wigs, even for cancer patients.  Some Medicare Advantage Plans may cover it if prescribed, but again, only for cancer patients or other diseases that cause hair loss.  They consider such items for trans people "cosmetic."

 

Carolyn Marie