By Aderinola Adeogun
For many women, wigs and hair attachment accessories have become more than just beauty products, they are tools of transformation, confidence, and convenience. Many women, even those who profess a faith, have difficulty resisting the urge to touch up their hair
Pastors’ wives, church workers, corporate professionals, and students have embraced the trend. Just as people change their clothes to suit different occasions, the use of wigs, weaves, and clip-ins to complement their looks has almost become the norm for many women.
While some women have set attachments aside due to health concerns, financial costs, or a return to natural hair, a vast number continue to join the trend daily.
Social media has fueled the popularity of wig and hair attachment reviews with tutorials, and transformation videos, making them more accessible and desirable than ever.
A hairstylist and wig expert at Ruky’s Beauty Salon:, Mrs. Temitope Ahmed explains that the difference between wigs and braids is that wigs save time unlike braids which take time to fix.
According to her, “One of the things women look out for before making their hair is an environment where they see a lot of people. Some people prefer to weave their natural hair into all-back and wear a wig on it.”
She noted further that maintaining natural hair without attachments or extensions can be painful and expensive. It is easier to maintain wigs than attachments or natural hair. As a hairstylist, I would rather make wigs for clients because the income is often higher than what I get from braiding in a single day.”
Mrs. Comfort Chibuike, CEO of Ladi’s Beauty Salon, however believes natural beauty comes from natural hair.”I focus more on natural hairstyles without attachments, such as Didi (local weaving), Suku, etc. I also make hair with attachments and wigs, depending on my customers’ requests, and I treat them well.”
She adds: “I always advise women to embrace natural hair because it promotes hair growth and has other benefits. Wigs and attachments should not be used all the time, although certain occasions may require them.”
Why Women Wear Wigs and Attachments
Women give various reasons for wearing artificial hair. Some say wigs help them achieve lengths and fullness their natural hair cannot grow. Others feel that wigs save them hours of daily styling. Many use attachments to protect their natural hair from heat, chemicals, and harsh weather.
An undergraduate law student from the University of Ibadan, Naomi Adeoye, says “I prefer wigs to attachments. Sitting for hours to make hair is stressful and time-consuming. Wigs are convenient and can be removed at any time, especially during hot weather. Wig prices vary. Unlike attachments, I don’t have to keep buying extensions and paying for services. I can simply revamp my wig and wear it again. It is comfortable, convenient, and durable.”
Another respondent, Eniola Raji, an agriculturist, says: “I prefer attachments. Although it can be stressful and time-consuming, I believe it helps my natural hair grow. This way, I won’t have to depend on wigs, which may make the hair dormant and limit growth.”
Toyosi Adeogun, a linguist says she prefers wigs because they are not stressful. “I don’t like spending hours making my hair or dealing with the pain of attachments. I prefer to keep my natural low-cut hair, and when I want a different look, I use wigs. Wig makers have made things easier. Now we have braided and styled wigs that give the same look without the stress, pain, and time. Instead of spending money repeatedly on attachments, I would rather invest in a quality, durable wig.”
Miss Mistura Lawal, a political.scientist says she prefers attachments because “I can style my hair in different ways. The advantage of wigs is that they are convenient, comfortable, and easy to wear, especially during the hot season.”
Dermatologist’s perspective
Lagos-based dermatologist Dr. Oluwaseun Bankole explains that while wigs and hair attachments have become a popular beauty choice among women, improper use can pose risks to scalp health.
According to the expert, tight braiding underneath wigs and constant use of heavy attachments can lead to traction alopecia, a condition caused by repeated tension on the hair roots.
The dermatologist further notes that poor hygiene, such as infrequent washing of wigs or scalp, may result in dandruff, itching, or infections.
However, when properly maintained and worn in moderation, wigs and attachments are generally safe and can even serve as protective styling options.
The Economy of wigs and attachment
From an economic perspective, the wig and attachment industry is a booming sector of the beauty business. It creates income opportunities for wig makers, hairstylists, distributors, and online retailers. Many women have built successful businesses selling handmade wigs or offering installation services.
Some women maintain braids for a maximum of one or two months, but wigs can last for years depending on their quality and maintenance. Wigs can also be repaired if damaged by taking them to a hairstylist to revamp and make them look new again.
The price of braids depends on the length of the hair and the salon. The price for braids ranges from ₦10,000–₦15,000, but in bigger salons, it can range from ₦100,000–₦150,000, often with added comfort like air conditioning.
Funke Adeyemo, a wig maker and salon owner in Lagos, explains: “The wig business is very profitable. A good human hair wig can cost me ₦40,000 to make, and I sell it for ₦80,000 or more. But customers must understand that quality costs money. Cheap synthetic wigs may save money upfront but can damage natural hair or fall apart quickly.”
However, from a consumer perspective, regular wig users spend thousands of naira annually on purchases, maintenance, adhesives, and salon visits. For women on tight budgets, this can become a financial strain.
Diverse Perspectives: Men’s Opinions on the Trend
Mr. Gift Etim, a 26-year-old engineer, says “For me, it is perfectly fine for a woman to grow and maintain her natural hair. Natural hair adds to her beauty.
However, not all women can grow or manage their natural hair, so it is also okay for them to wear wigs or style their hair differently. I appreciate both options and do not see anything wrong with either.”
Samuel Bamidele, a 30-year-old artist however believes women should be careful when using wigs or attachments and not treat them like a ‘small god.’ It is important to understand the details and materials used before wearing them, as some wigs may be made from questionable sources.”
For Olayinka Simeon wigs should be worn with modesty..”I have no issues with wigs or attachments. However, they should be worn with modesty and not overdone.”
A Religious Perspective
Bernard Olutayo, Pastor of a branch of Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries, Ogun State, emphasizes modesty and natural appearance.
“Within this context, the use of wigs and hair attachments is often discouraged, as our members are encouraged to prioritize inner beauty and spiritual values over outward appearance.” He said.
He stated further, “Hair can act as an altar of covenant. Because human hair bundles are often sourced from donors in distant countries sometimes harvested as part of religious rituals or ‘sacrifices’ in foreign temples wearing them is a way of unknowingly connecting yourself to those foreign spirits.”
He continues: “Your hair symbolizes your spiritual glory. When you attach hair that was dedicated to an idol to your own head, you are inviting spiritual pollution into your life. You become a ‘photocopy’ of someone else’s problems.”
He adds: “The Bible says in 1 Peter 3:3-4 that beauty should not come from outward adornment alone but from the inner self. God is more concerned about the beauty of the heart than outward appearance.”
He emphasized that true beauty reflects inner values such as humility, confidence in God, and good character.
Another pastor Seun Daramola however believes to the pure all things are pure. ‘if people use those items with a mindset that is polluted, using it could translate to negative effect.
“But if it is used without having such understanding that it is demonic then there will be no consequence I think it has to do with the mind. There is nothing that the enemy cannot use so it’s not about avoiding things, it about what God saying per time.”
He however advocates that women should be.modest. “Many years back ladies were content with their natural hair. But today they have to enhance it. In doing so there should be moderation.”
