FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Shopping for a wig can feel like learning a new language: color codes, cap construction, fibers, sizing, availability, and return rules all at once. This FAQ is designed to make the process feel clearer, more personal, and far less overwhelming.
About Liora Alternative Hair
What is Liora Alternative Hair?
Liora Alternative Hair is an online alternative-hair boutique offering thoughtfully selected wigs, personal guidance, and educational resources for women experiencing hair loss or exploring alternative hair for any reason. Liora was founded by Chrissy, a longtime alternative-hair wearer and licensed massage therapist with more than two decades of experience supporting women through personal, physical, and emotional transitions. The goal is not simply to sell wigs. It is to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in what you choose.
What does “Liora” mean?
Liora means “my light.” The name reflects Liora’s purpose: helping women reconnect with confidence, identity, and a sense of themselves through compassionate alternative-hair guidance.
Do I need to be experiencing medical hair loss to shop at Liora?
No. Liora welcomes anyone interested in wigs or alternative hair. You never need to explain or justify why you wear alternative hair.
- Alopecia or medical hair loss
- Chemotherapy or other medical treatment
- Hormonal, postpartum, age-related, or genetic thinning
- Trichotillomania
- Convenience, fashion, protective styling, or personal preference
What makes Liora different from a large online wig retailer?
Liora is built around thoughtful curation, honest education, and personal guidance. Instead of presenting thousands of options with little context, Liora helps customers understand fit, fiber, cap construction, color, and realistic expectations so they can make a more confident decision.
Choosing a Wig
How do I choose the right wig?
Start by considering the five factors below. The best wig is not always the most expensive or the most popular. It is the one that fits comfortably, works with your daily life, and helps you feel like yourself.
- Your preferred length and overall style
- Your natural coloring or desired wig color
- Your head measurements and likely cap size
- Your preferred fiber and maintenance level
- Your budget, lifestyle, and how often you plan to wear it
What information should I review before ordering?
Read the full product page rather than relying only on the model photo.
- Fiber type
- Cap construction and cap size
- Fringe, crown, side, and nape measurements
- Overall weight and density
- Lace-front and monofilament features
- Heat-styling guidelines
- Available colors
- Current inventory or pre-order status
How do wig measurements work?
Wig measurements are usually taken from specific areas of the wig, not from the top of the head to the very bottom. A style listed as 12 inches can look very different depending on layering, curl pattern, your height, your neck length, and where the wig sits on your head. Curly and wavy wigs often appear shorter than straight styles with the same listed measurement.
Can you help me choose between several styles?
Yes. A complimentary consultation is ideal when you are comparing multiple wigs, brands, colors, cap constructions, or price points. Chrissy can help you evaluate which options are most likely to work based on your measurements, preferences, lifestyle, and previous wig experience.
Do you offer personalized wig recommendations?
Yes. Recommendations may consider head circumference, face-framing preferences, desired density, length, curl pattern, color family, lace-front preferences, permatease tolerance, fiber type, styling ability, and budget. Recommendations are guidance rather than a guarantee because every person experiences fit, color, and comfort differently.
What is a good first wig for a beginner?
Many first-time wearers do best with a style that feels familiar, is easy to maintain, and does not require constant adjustment. A traditional synthetic wig in a manageable length can be easier than a very long heat-friendly style. The right first wig still depends on your cap size, preferred density, comfort needs, and personal style.
Complimentary Consultations
Do you offer free wig consultations?
Yes. Liora offers a complimentary 30-minute wig consultation for customers who would like guidance before ordering. It is a comfortable, no-pressure place to discuss first-wig questions, style selection, color ideas, cap sizing, cap construction, fiber options, comfort concerns, budget, and products you are already considering.
How long is the consultation?
The standard complimentary consultation is approximately 30 minutes.
Are consultations virtual or in person?
Complimentary consultations are generally offered virtually. Private in-person appointments may be available by arrangement. Any private location details are provided only after an appointment is confirmed.
Do I have to purchase a wig after my consultation?
No. There is no obligation to purchase. The purpose is to help you feel more informed and confident about your options.
Should I measure my head before the consultation?
Yes, if possible. The most helpful starting measurement is your head circumference. Additional measurements may include front hairline to nape, ear to ear across the forehead, ear to ear over the top, temple to temple around the back, and nape width.
Wig Sizing and Fit
How do I measure my head for a wig?
Use a soft fabric measuring tape. Keep it snug without pulling tightly.
- Place the tape at your natural front hairline.
- Bring it around above one ear.
- Continue around the back of your head at the occipital bone.
- Bring it above the other ear.
- Return to the starting point and record the measurement.
- Repeat at least once to confirm accuracy.
What are the most common wig cap sizes?
Most wigs are offered in petite, petite/average, average, average/large, or large. Average is the most commonly produced size, but fit varies significantly by brand and cap construction.
Does every average-size wig fit the same?
No. Two average-size wigs can fit very differently based on brand, cap shape, stretch, ear-tab placement, nape adjusters, lace-front design, and the amount of biological hair underneath.
What should I do if a wig feels too tight?
First, loosen the adjustable tabs at the nape and make sure the wig is positioned correctly rather than sitting too far forward. Some wigs relax slightly with wear, but a wig should not cause significant pain, pressure, numbness, or headaches. Do not permanently stretch, cut, or alter it until you are certain you are keeping it.
What should I do if a wig feels too large?
Tighten the adjustable nape tabs and confirm that the ear tabs and front hairline are positioned properly. A wig grip may improve stability, but it cannot fully correct a cap that is significantly too large.
Can a wig be altered for fit?
Some professional wig specialists can make limited cap adjustments. Alterations are permanent and generally make the wig ineligible for return, so fit should be carefully evaluated before any changes are made.
Wig Colors
How do I choose a wig color online?
Consider your natural hair color, skin undertone, eyebrow color, desired contrast, rooting, highlight placement, and whether you prefer warm, neutral, or cool tones. Manufacturer color charts and descriptions are helpful, but they cannot perfectly reproduce how a color will look in person.
Are wig colors the same across different brands?
No. Wig color names and codes are not standardized across the industry. A medium brown from one manufacturer may be warmer, cooler, lighter, darker, or more highlighted than a similarly named shade from another brand.
What does the “R” mean in a wig color name?
In many naming systems, R indicates a rooted color, meaning the wig has a darker shade at the root to create depth and a more natural appearance. Manufacturers use different systems, so review the specific product description and photos.
Why does the color look different on my screen?
Screens display color differently based on device type, brightness, color settings, photo lighting, and manufacturer editing. A shade can also look different against your skin than it does on the model.
Can you guarantee an exact color match?
No online retailer can guarantee an exact match based only on photographs. Liora can help narrow down options, but color selection remains subjective and can vary by production batch.
What is a rooted, shaded, tipped, or blended color?
Rooted or shaded colors have darker depth near the base. Tipped colors concentrate a lighter or contrasting shade toward the ends. Blended colors mix multiple tones throughout. The exact effect varies by manufacturer and style.
Wig Fibers
What is a traditional synthetic wig?
A traditional synthetic wig is made from manufactured fibers designed to hold their color, texture, and style. It usually returns to its original shape after proper washing and air drying, making it a low-maintenance choice.
What is a heat-friendly synthetic wig?
Heat-friendly synthetic fiber can be restyled with approved low-temperature tools. It offers flexibility, but it usually requires more maintenance and is more vulnerable to friction than traditional synthetic fiber. Always follow the manufacturer’s temperature limit.
Can I use a regular curling iron or flat iron on a wig?
Only when the product is specifically labeled heat friendly or heat resistant. Traditional synthetic fiber can melt, frizz, or become permanently damaged. Even heat-friendly wigs should be styled at the lowest effective temperature within the manufacturer’s stated limit.
What is the difference between synthetic and human-hair wigs?
Synthetic wigs generally hold their style, require less daily work, cost less, and offer complex blended colors. Human-hair wigs provide greater styling flexibility and natural movement, but usually require styling after washing, more maintenance, and a much larger investment.
How long does a synthetic wig last?
There is no guaranteed lifespan. Longevity depends on wear frequency, fiber type, length, friction, heat exposure, washing, product use, storage, and environment. Long heat-friendly styles often show friction sooner than shorter traditional synthetic styles.
Which fiber is easiest for a beginner?
Traditional synthetic fiber is often the easiest starting point because it maintains its style and usually needs less daily maintenance. A customer who enjoys restyling may prefer heat-friendly fiber despite the additional care.
Cap Construction
What is a lace-front wig?
A lace-front wig has a sheer lace section along the front hairline. Individual fibers are tied into the lace to create the appearance of hair growing from the scalp. It can provide a natural-looking hairline and allow some styling away from the face.
What is a monofilament top?
A monofilament top is a fine mesh area where individual fibers are hand-tied. It creates a scalp-like appearance and often allows more flexible parting.
What is a monofilament part?
A monofilament part provides a natural-looking scalp effect along a designated parting area. It offers some of the realism of a full monofilament top, often at a lower price.
What is a hand-tied wig?
A hand-tied wig has fibers individually tied into a soft cap material across most or all of the cap. Hand-tied caps are often valued for natural movement, flexible styling, reduced bulk, and a softer interior.
What is a basic or open-wefted cap?
A basic cap uses machine-made wefts, often with open spaces between them for ventilation. Basic caps are generally lightweight, breathable, affordable, and designed to maintain a specific style.
What is permatease?
Permatease consists of shorter, crimped fibers near the base of a wig. It creates lift, support, and style retention. Some customers enjoy the fullness; others prefer lower-density or hand-tied designs with little or no permatease.
Which cap construction is the most comfortable?
Comfort is personal. A fully hand-tied cap may feel soft and flexible, while an open-wefted cap may feel cooler and lighter. Sensitive scalps may prefer fewer seams, softer materials, and carefully finished lace.
Inventory and Availability
What does “in stock” mean?
An in-stock product is currently available for fulfillment based on the inventory information shown on the website. Inventory can change quickly, especially for popular colors and styles.
What does “ready to ship” mean?
Ready-to-ship products are physically available for shipment rather than waiting for a future manufacturer restock or release. Processing time and carrier transit time are separate from availability.
Can an item sell out after I place my order?
Inventory systems update frequently, but rare discrepancies can occur when multiple customers order the same item or manufacturer inventory changes unexpectedly. Liora will contact you with available options if an availability issue occurs.
Why is a color unavailable?
A color may be sold out, backordered, discontinued, awaiting production, limited release, or simply not manufactured in that style.
Can you notify me when a wig is back in stock?
When available, use the back-in-stock notification option on the product page. You may also contact Liora for help checking availability or possible restock information.
Pre-Orders
What is a pre-order wig?
A pre-order wig is purchased before it is physically available for immediate shipment. Pre-orders may apply to upcoming releases, manufacturer restocks, limited-production styles, or colors with a future estimated availability date.
When will my pre-order ship?
The estimated release or arrival information will be listed on the product page when available. Manufacturer dates are estimates and may change because of production, freight, customs, allocation, or other delays outside Liora’s control.
Are pre-order dates guaranteed?
No. Pre-order and restock dates are estimates provided by the manufacturer and are not guaranteed. Liora will share meaningful updates when they become available.
Can I combine a pre-order item with an in-stock item?
You may be able to place both in one order, but the order may be held until all items are available unless otherwise stated or arranged. Separate orders are usually best when you want an in-stock item as soon as possible.
Can I cancel a pre-order?
Pre-order cancellation terms are governed by Liora’s posted pre-order and return policies. Review those terms before purchasing, especially when an item is being specifically reserved or ordered for you.
When is payment collected for a pre-order?
Payment is generally collected at checkout so the item can be reserved or ordered. Any different payment timing will be stated on the product page or during checkout.
Ordering and Payment
How do I place an order?
Select the style and color, add the item to your cart, and complete checkout using an available payment method. Review the product title, color, price, availability, and shipping information carefully before submitting the order.
When is my payment processed?
Payment is generally processed when the order is submitted. Pre-orders are also typically paid at purchase so the item can be reserved or ordered.
Can I change my order after placing it?
Contact Liora as soon as possible. Once an order has entered processing, been submitted to a manufacturer, or shipped, changes may not be possible.
Can I use more than one discount code?
Shopify generally permits one discount code unless specific offers have been configured to combine. Some brands, new releases, pre-orders, clearance items, or special promotions may be excluded.
Why is my discount code not working?
A code may be expired, entered incorrectly, limited to one use, subject to a minimum purchase, excluded from the item, or unable to combine with another offer. Review the promotion terms or contact Liora for help.
Do you charge sales tax?
Applicable sales tax is calculated during checkout based on the order and delivery location.
Can I place an order by phone or during a consultation?
Availability may vary. For security and accuracy, customers may be directed to complete checkout through the secure Liora website even when a product was selected during a consultation.
Shipping
Where does Liora Alternative Hair ship?
Available destinations are shown during checkout. Shipping options may vary based on location, order value, and product availability.
How much is shipping?
Current shipping charges are displayed at checkout. Any free-shipping threshold or promotional shipping offer is based on the qualifying merchandise subtotal after applicable discounts unless stated otherwise.
How long does shipping take?
Estimated delivery includes both order processing and carrier transit. Many orders arrive within approximately 5–8 business days, but timing can vary because of inventory location, weekends, holidays, weather, carrier delays, and manufacturer fulfillment. Pre-order and backordered items follow separate timelines.
Will I receive tracking information?
Yes. When tracking is available, it will be sent to the email address or phone number used at checkout. Tracking may take time to update after the shipping label is created.
Why does tracking say “label created” with no movement?
This usually means the label has been generated but the carrier has not yet scanned the package into its network. Updates can be delayed by 24–48 hours.
What should I do if my package is delayed?
Review the tracking information first. Carrier scans may be delayed during severe weather, holidays, or high-volume periods. Contact Liora if the package has not moved for an extended period or appears lost.
What should I do if my package arrives damaged?
Take clear photos of the outer package, shipping label, visible damage, product packaging, and the item itself. Contact Liora promptly and keep all packaging until the issue has been reviewed.
Can I change my shipping address after ordering?
Contact Liora immediately. Address changes are not guaranteed once an order is processing or a label has been created. Customers are responsible for entering a complete, accurate delivery address at checkout.
Returns and Exchanges
What is Liora’s return policy?
Eligible returns are accepted according to Liora’s posted Returns & Exchanges Policy. Approved returns are generally issued as store credit rather than a refund to the original payment method. Review the complete policy before ordering.
How long do I have to request a return?
A return request must be submitted within the time frame stated in the current Returns & Exchanges Policy. Submitting a request does not automatically guarantee approval.
What condition must a wig be in to qualify?
An eligible wig must generally be unworn, unaltered, uncut, unwashed, free of odors, makeup, skin products, hair products, and pet hair, in its original style, and returned with original tags and packaging.
Can I try the wig on?
Yes, but handle it carefully. Use a wig cap when possible and avoid makeup, fragrance, smoke, food odors, hair products, or anything that could transfer to the wig or lace. Try it on only long enough to assess basic fit, color, and appearance.
Can I brush or style it while deciding?
No. Do not brush, comb, heat, steam, spray, wash, trim, or style a wig until you are certain you are keeping it. These actions may make it ineligible for return.
Can I return a wig after removing the tags?
Generally no, unless the posted policy specifically states otherwise. Removing tags or altering packaging can make the item ineligible.
Are clearance or open-box wigs returnable?
Clearance, final-sale, and open-box items are generally not eligible for return unless specifically stated on the product page.
Are shipping charges refundable?
Original shipping charges and return-shipping expenses are generally not included in store credit unless the return results from a confirmed Liora fulfillment error.
What happens after my return is received?
The item is inspected to confirm it meets the return requirements. Approved store credit is issued after inspection. Worn, altered, damaged, scented, or otherwise ineligible items may be refused.
Why is the return policy strict?
Wigs are personal-wear products that come into close contact with the head, skin, and face. Strict standards protect hygiene, product integrity, and the next customer receiving the item.
Trying On Your Wig
What should I do when my wig first arrives?
Before removing tags or making any changes, follow these steps:
- Open the package carefully.
- Confirm the style and color on the tags.
- Inspect the wig without altering it.
- Put on a wig cap if desired.
- Gently place the wig on your head.
- Check cap fit, ear-tab placement, and front hairline.
- Look at it in both natural and indoor light.
- Give yourself time before making a final decision.
Why does my new wig look different from the product photo?
A wig can look different because of head and face shape, placement, professional photo styling, lighting, production variation, fiber settling during shipment, part placement, curl pattern, and model proportions. Some wigs need gentle settling before they resemble manufacturer images.
What if I do not love it in the first five minutes?
Pause before making a decision. Do not judge a new wig for the first time when you are exhausted, rushed, hungry, hormonal, emotional, or already having a difficult day. Alternative hair often needs a little time for your eyes and brain to adjust. Check the fit, placement, part, lighting, and overall shape without altering it, then step away and look again later.
What is “box hair”?
Box hair is temporary flattening, bends, or separation caused by packaging and shipping. It is common and does not automatically indicate a defect. Do not aggressively style a return-eligible wig; contact Liora for guidance if you are unsure.
Wig Care
How often should I wash my wig?
Washing frequency depends on how often it is worn, climate, perspiration, skin oils, product buildup, fiber type, and length. Many wigs do not need washing after every wear, and overwashing can shorten fiber life.
What products should I use?
Use products specifically formulated for synthetic or heat-friendly synthetic wigs. Regular human-hair shampoos, conditioners, oils, and styling products can coat or damage synthetic fibers.
How should I store my wig?
Store it clean and dry, away from heat, direct sunlight, and pets. Use a breathable wig bag, box, or suitable stand, and protect longer fibers from friction and tangling.
Can I sleep or shower in my wig?
It is generally not recommended. Sleeping or showering in a wig increases friction, tangling, matting, stretching, and premature wear.
Why are the ends becoming frizzy?
Friction is a common cause, especially with long heat-friendly styles. Clothing collars, scarves, seat backs, car headrests, pillows, and shoulder contact can roughen the fiber. Proper detangling and approved low-heat maintenance may help depending on the fiber.
Can I use fabric softener on a synthetic wig?
Liora recommends using manufacturer-approved wig-care products rather than household products. Unapproved methods can coat, dry, or damage the fiber and may affect any manufacturer support.
How do I detangle a long wig?
Work slowly from the ends upward using an approved wide-tooth comb or wig brush recommended for the fiber. Support the hair above the section you are detangling, avoid pulling at the cap, and use a wig-safe detangling spray when appropriate.
Product Photos and Variations
Will my wig look exactly like the photo?
Not necessarily. Manufacturer photos show a styled sample under professional lighting. Your wig may vary slightly because of fiber placement, curl pattern, highlight distribution, rooting, production batch, packaging, styling, and head shape. These normal variations do not necessarily indicate a defect.
Why do photos show different shades of the same color?
The same color can appear different because of studio lighting, outdoor lighting, camera settings, background, model skin tone, fiber texture, and image editing. Review multiple images when available and seek guidance when color is your primary concern.
Why do product images look different sizes in a collection grid?
Manufacturers often supply photos with different aspect ratios, crops, or amounts of background. The website may display the full image inside a uniform product-card area, which can make the model appear larger or smaller. This does not affect the actual wig size.
Are color swatches exact?
No. Swatches are visual guides and can vary by screen and photography. They are useful for comparing color families but are not a guarantee of an exact in-person appearance.
Defects and Order Issues
What is considered a wig defect?
A possible defect may include a confirmed manufacturing problem such as incorrect construction, significant missing fiber, faulty stitching, damaged lace before wear, the wrong item or color, or a structural issue not caused by handling. Normal fiber variation, box hair, minor shedding, styling differences, and personal fit or color preference are not automatically defects.
What should I do if I believe I received a defective wig?
Stop handling or wearing it and contact Liora promptly. Include your order number, a clear description, photos, video when helpful, and images of the tags and packaging. Do not alter, wash, cut, or attempt to repair the item before receiving instructions.
What if I received the wrong item or color?
Keep all tags and packaging intact and contact Liora as soon as possible with your order number and photos of what was received. Do not wear or alter the item.
Is some shedding normal?
A small amount of loose fiber can be normal, especially when a wig is new. Significant or persistent shedding may require review. Avoid pulling or brushing aggressively while the issue is being evaluated.
Privacy and Support
Is my consultation information private?
Personal information shared during a consultation is treated respectfully and used only to provide appropriate guidance and service. You are never required to share medical details you are uncomfortable discussing.
How can I contact Liora Alternative Hair?
Use the contact information or contact form on the Liora Alternative Hair website. For order questions, include your order number so the request can be reviewed efficiently.
Where can I learn more about wigs?
Visit Wig GPS, Liora’s educational resource for practical guidance about wig basics, sizing, colors, cap construction, fibers, styling, care, first-wig support, and shopping with greater confidence.
Still Have Questions?
You do not have to figure everything out by yourself. Schedule a Complimentary Wig Consultation for personalized guidance, or contact Liora Alternative Hair with your question. Chrissy will help you sort through the options in a comfortable, no-pressure way.
Still have questions?
You do not have to figure everything out by yourself. Chrissy is here to help you sort through the options in a comfortable, no-pressure way.