China Beauty Products Buying Guide (3): All About Wigs
2025-08-05 14:00:02
Wigs are the key to creating versatile hairstyles. This article will delve into China's top wig manufacturers, which produce high-quality wigs in a variety of styles.
If you are looking for wig suppliers, this article will be your ideal reference.
We will explore the main suppliers, materials used, production technologies, quality control, and purchasing considerations when importing wigs from China.
I. What Is the Purpose of Wigs?
The uses of wigs are extensive, covering practical, decorative, medical and other fields:
Complementing hair defects: For people with hair loss, alopecia areata, or post-chemotherapy hair loss, wigs help restore a normal appearance and boost self-confidence.
Fashion styling needs: They are used for daily matching, stage performances, film and television shooting, cosplay, etc., making it easy to quickly change hairstyles (such as length, color, curly/straight hair, etc.) without damaging one's own hair.
Special scene applications: In traditional operas (such as the plumes and hair patches in Peking Opera), costume drama shooting, and festivals (such as Halloween and Carnival), wigs meet the styling requirements of specific roles or scenes.
Medical assistance: Some medical institutions provide customized wigs for cancer patients as a psychological support tool during the recovery period.
II. What Materials Are Wigs Made of?
Wig materials are mainly divided into two categories: human hair and synthetic hair, each with its own characteristics:
Human hair Processed from natural human hair, it has a texture, luster, and drape close to real hair. It can be permed, dyed, and combed, with a relatively long service life (1-3 years), but the cost is higher. Classified by origin, it includes Chinese hair, Indian hair, European hair, etc. Among them, Chinese hair is favored in the global market due to its thick, hard texture and strong toughness.
Synthetic hair Made from chemical fibers, common materials include polyester (polyester fiber), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, etc. It features low cost and fixed styling (e.g., curly hair is not easy to deform), but has a harder texture, poor heat resistance (not suitable for perming or dyeing), and a shorter service life (3-6 months). In recent years, improved synthetic fibers (such as high-temperature fiber) have emerged, which can withstand perming at a certain temperature.
III. What Types of Wigs Are Available in China?
China offers a rich variety of wigs, categorized by purpose, craftsmanship, and form:
Medical wigs (customized for people with hair loss, mostly made of human hair).
By Craftsmanship
Machine-made wigs: Woven by machines, they are efficient and low-cost, suitable for mass production;
Handmade wigs: Crocheted by hand, they feature high realism and breathability, with a higher price point, mostly used for high-end products.
By Form
Full wigs: Cover the entire head, ideal for people with total baldness or those pursuing an overall hairstyle;
Half wigs/hair pieces: Cover areas (e.g., the top of the head, sides), used to cover partial hair loss or add volume;
Hair blocks/hair bundles: Small hair pieces, perfect for accentuating hairstyles;
Traditional wigs: Such as "ran kou" (beards) and "tou mian" (hair ornaments) in traditional operas, belonging to culturally inherited wigs.
IV. Understanding the Quality Standards for Wigs Manufacturing
The quality standards for wig manufacturing cover multiple dimensions including raw materials, craftsmanship, performance, and safety, aiming to ensure the durability, safety, and user experience of the products. Here is a classified explanation of common quality standard requirements at home and abroad:
A. Quality Requirements for Raw Materials
Human hair
Hair quality: The hair should be intact without breakage, with distinct roots and ends. It should not be mixed with synthetic fibers or inferior hair.
Cleanliness: It must undergo degreasing and disinfection treatments, free of oil, impurities, and microorganisms (such as bacteria and fungi), complying with hygiene standards.
Color: The color of wigs in the same batch should be uniform, with color difference controlled within the standard range (e.g., gray scale difference ≤ 2 levels).
Synthetic hair
Material stability: Polyester, high-temperature fibers, and other used materials should have friction and light resistance to avoid easy fading or breaking.
Safety: Fibers containing formaldehyde, heavy metals (lead, cadmium, etc.), and other harmful chemicals are prohibited. They must meet the chemical restriction requirements in regulations such as the EU REACH and US CPSC.
B. Quality Requirements for Craftsmanship
Weaving/crocheting craftsmanship
Uniform density: Machine-woven or hand-crocheted hair nets/hair pieces should be tightly woven without missing or skipping stitches. The error in the number of hair strands per unit area should not exceed 5%.
Firmness: The fixation of hair strands to the base should be firm, with a single hair strand’s tensile strength ≥ 5N (to prevent easy falling off). Seams should not be loose or pilling.
Realism: The root direction of hand-crocheted wigs should simulate natural growth. The breathability and fit of the base (such as mesh caps) should conform to ergonomics, with smooth edge treatment to avoid scratching the skin.
Styling craftsmanship
Curly/straight hair shape: The styling should be stable, with no obvious deformation after washing (3-5 times), and the curl retention rate ≥ 80%.
Trimming precision: The hairstyle outline should be symmetrical, with a length error ≤ 0.5cm, and no burrs or frizz.
C. Performance Index Requirements
Wash resistance: After a specified number of washes (e.g., 5 times), there should be no obvious color fading or hair loss (loss amount ≤ 2%), and the base should not deform or break.
Heat resistance: Synthetic hair (especially high-temperature fibers) should withstand a certain temperature (e.g., 160-180℃) to avoid melting or deformation during perming; human hair should maintain stability after perming and dyeing.
Breathability: The air permeability of mesh cap wigs should be ≥ 300mm/s (to ensure no stuffiness when worn). Base materials (such as lace and nylon mesh) should be wear-resistant, with a service life meeting standards (e.g., machine-made wigs ≥ 6 months, hand-made wigs ≥ 1 year).
D. Safety and Hygiene Requirements
Chemical safety: Formaldehyde content ≤ 20mg/kg, pH value between 4.0-8.5 (close to human skin’s acidity and alkalinity), and azo dyes (which can decompose into carcinogenic aromatic amines) are prohibited.
Biological safety: Human hair must undergo sterilization and disinfection, with a total bacterial count ≤ 200cfu/g and no pathogenic microorganisms (such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus).
Physical safety: Base materials should have no sharp edges to avoid scratching the skin; small parts (such as hair clips and decorations) should be firm to prevent falling off and causing accidental ingestion risks (for children’s wigs).
E. Core Domestic and International Standards
Chinese wig production standards:
GB/T 23166-2008 "Hair Products - General Technical Conditions": Specifies general requirements for wig materials, appearance, physical and chemical properties, etc.
QB/T 4464-2013 "Wig Caps and Hair Pieces": Details indicators such as size deviation, color fastness, and wash resistance for wig caps and hair pieces.
Import certification requirements for different countries/regions:
EU: Must comply with the REACH regulation (restricting harmful chemicals) and CE certification (proving compliance with safety and health standards).
US: Requires FDA registration (Food and Drug Administration, related to chemical safety in wigs) and CPSC certification (Consumer Product Safety Commission, ensuring no safety hazards).
Africa: Some countries require a certificate of origin and quality inspection report; some regions have special regulations on wig materials and hygiene indicators (e.g., Nigeria, South Africa).
International: ISO 9001 quality management system certification (compliance of enterprise production processes) and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 (textile safety certification, proving wigs are free of harmful substances and suitable for direct skin contact).
China’s wig industry dominates the global market with its complete industrial chain, mature craftsmanship, and cost advantages. Meanwhile, by continuously improving quality standards and certification compliance, it further consolidates its international competitiveness.
V. What are the Production Bases of Wigs?
China is the world's largest producer and exporter of wigs, with its key production bases concentrated in the following regions:
Xuchang, Henan：Known as "China's Wig Capital," it is the world's largest wig production base, covering a complete industrial chain from raw material procurement, R&D, production to sales. Its products account for over 50% of the global market share, home to well-known enterprises like Rebecca.
In Xuchang, if you search for "hair product manufacturers" on a map application, you will find a great many results.
Qingdao, Shandong：Mainly exporting to European and American markets, it focuses on producing synthetic hair and mid-to-high-end human hair products. Boasting a well-developed industrial cluster, it is home to many large-scale manufacturers.
In Qingdao, if you search for "hair product manufacturers" on a map application, you will find a great many results.
Taihe, Anhui：Featuring the acquisition and processing of human hair, it serves as a key raw material supply base for wigs. It also produces finished wigs, with products exported to regions such as Africa and Southeast Asia.
Shenzhen and Guangzhou, Guangdong：Leveraging the advantages of the local fashion industry, they focus on high-end custom wigs, film and television wigs, and trendy wig designs, emphasizing brand building and personalized services.
VI. Choosing The Right Manufacturer: Tips And Strategies
Choosing a reputable Chinese wig factory as a long-term supply partner requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors.
Given the large number of Chinese wig manufacturers currently, importers must thoroughly assess candidate partners to find those that meet quality expectations and production needs. Here are key considerations when sourcing wigs:
Operational Experience Long-term stable operation implies solid practical accumulation and a mature production system. Priority should be given to enterprises with at least 5 years of wig production experience, as new entrants are often still in the stage of technical exploration. For those seeking high-end custom wig craftsmanship, visiting factories with over 10 years of operation allows experiencing their mature and well-established production processes. Experienced wig manufacturers typically possess exquisite professional skills and profound industry expertise.
Production Capacity Through in-depth communication, understand the breadth and depth of products and services beyond the online catalog. Inquire about the actual production capacity for annual orders exceeding 100,000 units, and whether simultaneous production of different types of wigs (such as human hair wigs, synthetic hair pieces, etc.) will cause delays or require outsourcing. Check current monthly output data to judge its capacity expansion potential, ensuring it can meet growing order demands.
Quality Assurance High-quality wig suppliers conduct rigorous inspection and recording of incoming raw materials, implement quality control analysis at each production stage, conduct comprehensive evaluation of finished products before packaging, perform real-time and accelerated shelf-life testing on samples, and handle unqualified products through corrective measures. Verify that the factory’s quality assurance processes comply with global standards such as ISO, ensuring adherence to high standards of hair product manufacturing specifications. This rigorous attitude reflects a commitment to consistent quality and continuous improvement.
Certifications Leading wig manufacturers follow the latest versions of international standards for quality management, occupational health and safety, and environmental protection. Common certifications include ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and SA8000, demonstrating their social responsibility. Complete registration qualifications ensure legal and compliant operation, facilitating efficient export customs clearance. Compliance certifications from relevant Chinese authorities and product safety testing certifications (such as formaldehyde content and microbial index testing) further guarantee product safety.
R&D Investment Excellent suppliers continuously improve manufacturing technology, optimize product design, and promote material innovation. Inquire about their R&D progress in next-generation wig materials—such as new fibers with natural texture and durability, more breathable base designs that fit the scalp, and hand-crocheting techniques with higher realism. These innovations can expand product options. Sustained R&D investment is key for innovative wig manufacturers to maintain competitiveness in the industry.
Consistency Testing To strictly ensure consistency in appearance and performance across different batches of wigs, professional manufacturers conduct tests in accordance with international standards, evaluating indicators such as hair loss rate, wash resistance, heat resistance (for synthetic hair), wearing comfort, and base breathability, ensuring stable quality for each batch.
VII. Top 10 Reliable Wigs Manufacturers in China
China is home to thousands of wig manufacturers, including many excellent yet little-known ones. If you intend to engage in the wig business, it is a wise move to conduct an on-site visit in China. There are over 1,000 wig manufacturers alone in Qingdao, Shandong. Should you plan to visit, we would be happy to accompany you; additionally, we have compiled a list of some eyelash suppliers for your reference.
Founded in 2006 and based in Qingdao, Shandong—a hub of the wig industry—Seaforest has grown into a leading giant in China’s wig sector through over a decade of dedicated development. As a full-industry-chain powerhouse integrating R&D, production, and foreign trade, the company boasts a team of over 1,400 professionals, standing out with its massive scale and comprehensive industrial layout. From cutting-edge material research to sophisticated manufacturing, from global market expansion to end-to-end services, it maintains a highly efficient and synergistic operational edge. Notably, Seaforest has also built a high-standard false eyelash production base. With its profound insights into beauty products and strong innovation capabilities, the company continuously delivers diversified, top-quality beauty solutions to global clients, establishing itself as an industry benchmark renowned for both strength and reputation.
2. 河南瑞贝卡发制品股份有限公司
Ranked among China's Top 10 wig brands, this brand holds a national protected trademark and is one of the larger professional hair product companies in China. Its product range is extensive, covering six major series such as craft hairpieces, women's wigs, and synthetic hair, with thousands of varieties. These products are not only popular in over 40 countries and regions worldwide but also available in more than 100 large and medium-sized cities across China. It should be noted that no official English website of the company has been found so far, while there are many counterfeit websites using the brand name. It is crucial to stay alert and guard against related risks.
3. Henan Ruimei Products Co. Ltd.
Founded in 1992, the company boasts its brand IREMY, which was born in France in the same year. As a high-end and highly influential wig brand, IREMY leads the trend of wig fashion, with its products covering five major series (including craft hair wefts, men's and women's wigs) and over 2,000 styles.
4. Jifa established
As a time-honored Chinese enterprise, the company was founded in 1955. Starting from a small industrial hair sorting cooperative, it has developed into a large national enterprise group. Its hair products include more than 1,000 varieties such as hair nets, men's and women's wigs, and toy wigs, which are sold well in more than 30 countries and regions around the world. Men's wigs account for over two-thirds of the international market, making it one of the largest hair product production bases in China.
Based on our in-depth understanding of the wig industry, the current market is extremely competitive: on one hand, many once well-known Chinese wig manufacturers have withdrawn from the market in recent years; on the other hand, a large number of new manufacturers continue to emerge. While these new entrants may have better cost control capabilities, the potential risks in the overall market have also increased. In recent years, IMEXsourcing has received numerous complaints and lawsuits against wig manufacturers, involving issues such as substandard product quality, delayed shipments, or incorrect deliveries.
It is undeniable that there are still many high-quality wig manufacturers in China, but these enterprises often do little external promotion. If you plan to come to China to source wigs, IMEXsourcing can accompany you throughout the process and provide comprehensive services including screening qualified suppliers and managing cooperation risks, helping you complete your procurement efficiently and safely.
VIII. Precautions for Purchasing: Making an Informed Decision
Once you’ve identified potential wig suppliers and their products, follow these steps to ensure a successful purchase:
Start with samples: Before placing a large order, it’s highly recommended to order samples. This allows you to assess quality in terms of craftsmanship (e.g., wig cap durability, evenness of hair distribution), material texture (smoothness of synthetic fibers or softness of human hair), and performance (fit and comfort during wear).
Evaluate supplier production capacity: A supplier’s production capacity is a key indicator of their ability to meet your needs, especially for large orders. Inquire about their daily/monthly output and delivery timelines. Established high-volume manufacturers are more likely to handle bulk orders efficiently, with stricter control over process stability—critical for maintaining consistency in wig length, curl, and style across batches.
Consider after-sales support: A reliable supplier should offer after-sales assistance, such as return/exchange services for issues like hair shedding or cap damage during shipping, or rework solutions for bulk products that don’t meet quality standards (e.g., uneven hair density or inconsistent curl).
Calculate total costs: Remember to account for all costs beyond the unit price. This includes shipping fees (note that wigs, though not overly heavy, require protective packaging, so dimensional weight may apply), import duties, customs clearance fees, local taxes, and potential costs for customization (e.g., private labeling, branded packaging) or warranty services.
Conduct due diligence: Use tools like Alibaba’s "Audited Supplier" badge or third-party inspection services (e.g., SGS) to verify the supplier’s qualifications and factory conditions. You can also hire professional agencies (such as IMEXsourcing) to research their business status, including financial health, actual production capacity, past order fulfillment records, and any legal disputes, to minimize collaboration risks.
IX. Choose IMEXsourcing as Your Sourcing Partner for Wigs in China
When it comes to procuring high-quality wigs from China, partnering with an experienced and reliable sourcing agent is paramount. IMEXsourcing stands out with a comprehensive service suite designed to streamline your acquisition process and secure exceptional value. Here are compelling reasons to select IMEXsourcing for your next wig purchase:
Extensive Procurement Expertise IMEXsourcing boasts a profound and long-standing history in the sourcing industry, enabling us to proficiently identify and connect with a wide range of reputable Chinese wig suppliers. Our deep market knowledge ensures we match you with manufacturers known for reliability and superior products, covering everything from high-end handcrafted custom wigs to mass-produced mechanized hairpieces and toppers.
Bespoke Design Solutions We understand that unique brand needs often demand tailored solutions. IMEXsourcing empowers you to commission wigs aligned with your brand identity—whether it’s specific materials (such as premium virgin human hair or heat-resistant synthetic fibers), styles (natural fluffy wigs, seamless hair extensions, retro curly designs), or base craftsmanship (ultra-thin lace caps, breathable biodegradable bases). Each product is precisely engineered to your specifications, ensuring perfect alignment with your brand positioning.
Thorough Supplier Verification Our commitment to quality begins with rigorous due diligence. We conduct comprehensive factory audits for all potential manufacturers, verifying their production capabilities (e.g., daily wig weaving volume, ratio of manual to mechanical production lines), assessing quality control protocols (e.g., hair shedding rate testing, base durability inspection procedures), and ensuring full compliance with domestic and international industry standards (such as EU REACH, US FDA regulations, etc.) and legal requirements.
Expert Price Negotiation Leveraging our veteran status and in-depth understanding of market dynamics, IMEXsourcing excels in negotiation. This expertise allows us to secure the most favorable pricing and terms with top-tier wig manufacturers renowned for their craftsmanship, material control, after-sales service, and cost efficiency, optimizing your investment.
Stringent Quality Assurance IMEXsourcing implements a robust quality management framework spanning the entire procurement cycle, including careful supplier selection, diligent production oversight (such as checking the firmness of hair attachment to bases and cap breathability), and thorough pre-shipment testing (such as wash resistance assessment and wear comfort evaluation), guaranteeing the integrity and performance of your wigs.
