It’s common to see a bevy of lace wig

providers during your average social media scroll, but wig hats? Not so much.

Self-taught hairstylist Melissa Walker is not only shaking up the online algorithm with her Wigs by Xtensionsja business, she’s also turning virtual heads with an innovative line of braided wig hats and wig headbands.

The 29-year-old said the COVID-19 pandemic

inspired her to take more risks and pursue her goals, thus birthing the

Kingston-based venture in September.

“As the trend of headband wigs get more

popular, I was inspired to make the braided version as well as with hats for

the main purpose of convenience,” she told BUZZ. “During this pandemic, you want to be able to throw on

your hairstyle and go – literally. Also, managing braids versus loose hair is

relatively easier.”

The braided products range from US$120 to

US$140 per unit with a variety of styles (like locs, twists and box braids) to

choose from.

“The reception has been favourable and

positive,” Walker said. “I get a lot of questions as this is

relatively new to most, but hopefully the interest will reflect in the

sales.”

One such question is the benefit of a wig hat

or headband in comparison to a regular wig.

“The main benefit of the wig cap/headband

I would say is that it will last for years and has little to no maintenance –

no washing or touching-up,” she said. “It’s very sustainable because

it doesn’t need to be maintained after purchase. The headbands are

interchangeable and replaceable.”

The hats can also be customised. Orders can be

made via her website https://wigsbyxtensionsja.company.site/.

From

interest to income

Walker’s interest in hairstyling is innate and

flourished into income after she completed accounting studies at The University

of Mary in North Dakota, United States.

“I didn’t consider it until after leaving

college and being unemployed,” she shared. “I was forced to re-evaluate

plans for the sake of survival at the time. I started my hair business doing

protective styles – mainly faux locs and crochet braids – in 2014… I actually

make regular wigs as well so there’s something for everyone… I also sell my

own line of hair products in partnership with Marabelle as well as

headbands.”

She intends to expand her offering with more

innovative products and sees herself becoming a mega brand in the near future.

“In five years I see my business being a

multi-million dollar business having its own or multiple physical locations,

(and) being the inventor of creative, unique products.”

And for the woman who has never tried a wig

hat or headband?

“She should definitely purchase one for

those throw-on-and-go moments when she doesn’t have time or just doesn’t feel

like combing her hair. It’s the most convenient fix right now.”