Alternative Hair Alchemist - A podcast about everything wigs, toppers and alternative hair!

There's been a lot of women experiencing weight loss as the result of taking meds such as Ozempic and Wegovy (both versions of semaglutide--initially developed with the intent to help control Type II Diabetes) and some of those women also have been noticing texture and condition changes of their hair as well as some reporting noticeable hair loss.  Could this be a side effect of the meds, too? In this episode, I am going to give you my take on this based on what I have seen firsthand both as a nurse and now having eight years of experience with hair loss clients in person, and what questions they have asked me and the opinions they have given. I also address a reminder that ANY body changes, trauma, dramatic weight loss, changes in nutrition, medical conditions such as hypothyroid, COVID and auto-immune disorders ALSO affect your hair's condition, growth and texture.   Think of your hair as a "report card" for your health on the inside.  Anything that affects your physical and mental health has the potential to have an effect on your hair.   Remember, taking care of yourself involves both your physical and mental health, and most of all....your spirit!  Put yourself just as high on your priority list as you do the others that you love!   And remember, I am not a physician and nothing I say should replace medical care with the professionals that know you and your specifics!    Peace, Love, Alternative Hair Debra Heim @debra_heim on Instagram and Debra Heim on Facebook @verybestlittlehairhouse on Instagram and Facebook  

Almost everyone knows that there are such a thing as petite sizes, but what can you do when you have measurements that are larger than most brand's averages?  This week I will give you some helpful tips to try. Fit and comfort in your alternative hair unit should be just as important as how something looks.  Sometimes women aren't aware that they could use a roomier size or that one even exists.  With most average heads of women estimated at 21.5 to 22.5 inches. there are many women that measure 22.5 to 24.5.  Not only that I have had some women have an average circumference measurement yet the fit isn't great.   Thanks for listening to the podcast! Until next time:  Peace, Love and Alternative Hair!!   xxDebraxxo

Toppers are usually the first options women consider with alternative hair.  There's so many choices out there and videos and ads make it look so easy. The latest online statistics on topper returns quoted by Jon Renau in an email this week stated the return rate of toppers purchased online is a whopping 50%! I would bet that 50% is an underestimate simply because I have clients that come into my shop for help making a topper purchased elsewhere look natural when it was not the best topper for their situation.  This week I will break it down for you as simply as I can on the three main things to consider when shopping for a topper. Also, attention fellow true crime fans!  At the end of this episode, I am going to make a recommendation for my latest binge listen in a case that is ongoing right now! Until next time, thank you for listening! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra  

As you probably already know, styles and colors get discontinued from time to time.  Sometimes, without a lot of notice.  But not to worry, I am going to give you my best advice as to how to navigate the changes with confidence.  Then when the compliments start rolling in about your new style or color, you'll be right at home in the new look. Until next time, Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair Deb   Find me at   www.debraheim.com or at:   www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com  Find Nikki on Facebook at Nouveau Hair and Wigs page and www.nouveau.hair 

Hey everyone!  Happy June to you!   This week I am back with an episode that was inspired by the client who came to the shop today, and who left with gorgeous results that she did not expect (as I always say time and time again),   We discussed alternative hair journeys and what she experienced at other wig shops as well as what she's tried along the way to my shop.  There are many many things I could discuss that you'd want to look out for, but today I discuss three biggies. Keep watching for the next series of episodes here, I plan to do an audio version of my book "Too Much Hair" one chapter a week.   Thanks for listening this week and thank you for every single episode you've listened to along the way!  Drop me a line on socials and let me know if you have any thoughts.  Till next time...;. Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra   www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com

Long story short, I was pleasantly surprised by quality of the haul of wigs I purchased each for 12 USD or less!  I think the least expensive one was 6 USD.  I tried many colors, shoulder length or longer, hats with hair attached and one with detachable hair!  I will post a few of the pictures in the Wise Wig Advice and Support group on Facebook.  This is not a sponsored review. Other than size variations and a few construction differences in them they were much better looking than I expected.  So if you've been on the fence, I say at that price you should give it a go! As always.....Peace, Love and Alternative Hair Debra Heim www.debraheim.com

Hey there!  Part Two I start to explain a little more about the pricing structure and how they are suggested from the manufacturer of the alternative hair for retail and internet suggested pricing plus what to reasonably expect from an authorized dealer.   Thanks for listening! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim

Hey there! This is the first in a multi part series where I am going to talk about alternative hair shopping in a boutique or salon versus internet.  There is a price difference but there is also a RESULTS difference from going to a qualified alternative hair consultant or a hairdresser educated and up to date in alternative hair versus doing it yourself.  This episode, I tell you about my qualifications and certifications so that you can see for yourself the education and service I personally provide to a client.   The results you'll get from coming to my shop or any shop like mine just by the guidance, trying caps, styles and colors on in person, can save you money, not to mention trial and error. I explain some of the behind the scenes factors that go into making a wig purchased in a retail setting vs internet site initially more expensive.   I try and keep these episodes less than 15 minutes, so this is going to be a series explaining everything I feel you should know so that you can understand what I wish someone would have told me early in my alt hair journey!   Thank you from the

One thing I see in common with all women, no matter how much money they earn, there is the tendency to feel guilty about what they spend on their hair.  Here's the reasons why you should allow yourself to feel good and how to reframe your thinking about it. Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim

There's so many places to get a good deal on alternative hair that someone else purchased that didn't work for them.....if you know what to check for!  First and foremost you want to trust the seller, do your due diligence on that.  But here are a few questions you might want to ask because things like care products or perfumes used by the person selling can scent the hair.   These questions are just a start as to what to ask the seller. When you find a group where trusted sellers buy, sell, and trade you will learn so much more.   Upcoming episode:  I'm going to give you my review of some super inexpensive wigs and hat/hair type wigs from different sites.  Also, how to handle vulnerable moments when you are an alternative hair wearer.  If you have any other episode suggestions, just send them on it! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim debra@debraheim.com

Back in 2017, practically nobody was using the term "alternative hair' for wigs and toppers. I deliberately chose that term to help change the perception of "wig" to become more acceptable.  Words have power, and it worked to an extent!  But, I got tired of explaining the term as I meant it:  alternative hair is just that....an ALTERNATIVE to hair you grew yourself.  Wigs have long been the source of jokes and just the word 'wig' can cause fear in some, but not so much anymore.  We have come a long way towards acceptance of self and acceptance of "helper hair" but there are two things that need to stop pronto!  And those are:  making jokes or telling stories about wigs looking bad or flying off, and wearing wigs that are obviously not right for the person.  But don't get me wrong everyone has to start somewhere with alternative hair, you get better at it and learn more about what works for YOU along the journey.  But lets face it, there are some wigs that are so obvious they cause someone to feel fearful about how they will be percieved. Remember, wearing alternative hair doesn't mean anything about you! It's not superficial to want to look great, nor is it dishonest or inauthentic to wear alternative hair.  It's about confidence! Much love to all my alt hair family that listen to this podcast and thank you!   Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra

There's a lot of different variables in your choices of wigs and toppers out there to consider when choosing your next wig or topper. You want a certain style, but maybe it parts on the opposite side.  You want a certain color, but there isn't your favorite color choice in that style. It usually happens like this:  you have this picture in your head of how you want your hair to look and when you get your new choice in, when it doesn't match the picture you had in your head, disappointment can happen.  So, prioritizing what is most important to you is a big key in choosing hair that works best for you. The main three things in a wig that you may have to choose between is color, style, and fit.  This week I discuss how to approach choosing and if something unexpected comes up and you feel disappointed, four things to keep in mind and consider. Peace love and alternative hair, Debra Find me at www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com  Wise Wig Advice and Support Group on Facebook  

One of the most common questions I get is "how long does a wig (topper) last?".  That's such an individual thing to answer

It's true, there is a grief associated with lots of things, and hair loss is one of those. In coming to terms with hair loss or an alopecia diagnosis ( or ANY diagnosis for that matter), you can expect to go through phases of anger, denial, bargaining, depression and acceptance in no particular order.  So the healthy thing to do is to acknowledge your feelings and surround yourself with supportive people.  And the good news is, how long you stay in the grieving process is up to you entirely.  Listen and find out the three mindset shifts you need to make to start on the road to self acceptance. As always.... Peace, Love and Alternative Hair ✌

One of the things I see often is someone having a difficult time making a decision between two favorites.  Find out why second guessing happens and why you ultimately can't make a wrong decision.  First of all, you learn from each time you try.  Second, no choice is permanent, there will always be another style for you. Remember, it's a journey to finding what works for you.  It's a process that includes trial and error and be kind to yourself.  My best tip when deciding between two colors and styles?  Get both! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair ✌ Debra Heim

Change is not easy for everyone.  Ideally we all want everyone to absolutely love our new look and the truth is, someone may say something that hurts your feelings.  Sometimes boyfriends, family, friends and the people closest to you will need some time as well to get used to the change and might say "I don't know' or "it looks different" and take it from me, that doesn't mean you are choosing the wrong style or color.  This week I give you some behind the scenes situations where someone says something about it and what to say back. Remember, the most important person that should like your new look is YOU. No alternative hair is a permanent decision and you are so much more than just your hair.  If your hair makes YOU feel great, that's all that matters! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair Debra Heim

Hello! This week's episode is based on fear a loved one may have with taking action on their own hair loss situation. Every year around holiday time like it is here in the USA, I will get a flurry of calls from daughters of moms and moms of daughters that have hair loss wanting to make an appointment for them.  I explain the fears running the show behind the situation and how I suggest dealing with them.  Even when someone is complaining about their hair loss, sometimes the wig or topper isn't the solution THE PERSON with the hair loss really wants themselves.  Sometimes, someone who is not truly ready will find a reason to dislike the most perfect wig or topper in the world. Survival fear is hardwired into our brains.  Your brain will act the same way with fight or flight reaction when faced with a good change like a great new 'do, too.  Fear is a sneaky thing sometimes.  I talk about how sometimes it's more comfortable to stay in a familiar pattern such as complaining and not doing something about it, as crazy as it sounds. Peace, Love and Alternative Hair

One thing I wanted to discuss this week was that you can have two of the same wig in the same color and although overall the same, there will be individual differences piece to piece.  Also, did you know about clip on bangs? Milano, Jon Renau and HairDo all make versions.  You can try bangs without the committment!   Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim

It's a sad, sad day anytime your new wig or topper starts to show wear.  But, just like shoes, alternative hair will wear out with use.  I have come up with some pretty clever hair styles just based on trying to hide something on a wig that didn't look 100% fresh and here are some hacks for hiding the wear. Thanks for listening.... Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra

It's a sad, sad day anytime your new wig or topper starts to show wear.  But, just like shoes, alternative hair will wear out with use.  I have come up with some pretty clever hair styles just based on trying to hide something on a wig that didn't look 100% fresh and here are some hacks for hiding the wear. Thanks for listening.... Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra

This week I would like to address something that I pick up on from women who call the shop that want to come in and see about natural looking alternative hair but feel that because they have their own hair, they might be not allowed to come to the shop.  It's something I never thought about until I noticed that many women seem to feel a sense of guilt/resistance/reluctance (or something?) about wanting to look and feel better in a luxury wig yet still have hair growing on their own head.  So lets' address the most common concerns once and for all. 1.)  Will it make my hair fall out? No, wearing a wig that fits correctly won't make your hair fall out. In fact, when you take the pressure off of yourself because your own hair isn't growing fast enough to feel great about yourself, it can grow in a little faster. 2.)  It's not like I have cancer or anything, is it ok if I come in for an appointment? Certainly! Repeat after me: It is safe for me to wear alternative hair to look and feel good. 3.)  Why is it more accepted in some circles to wear a wig but in others its not? Because women themselves make it more of an issue than it has to be!  If we could all get past making it mean something bigger than what it is, something that helps confidence and self esteem it will be more accepted. If you look great, it doesn't matter if you grew it or you bought it.   Until next time...peace, love and alternative hair! Debra

If we are going to talk alternative hair, we would be remiss to overlook men and their choices! Did you know that there are men's full wigs in addition to top pieces?  The selection of the styles in the heat friendly synthetic fiber has doubled in choice since I opened the shop!  The thing that may be of interest to you is that the men's cap on the average is quite roomier than the ladies.  Check your specs for specifics as far as size per style and colors available from brand to brand, and I will post links to some of the mens' choices in the Wise Wig Advice and Support Group on Facebook.     Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra

When you are an empath (deeply sensitive, loyal, giving) some times 'friends' won't respect your boundaries.  Sometimes too, their opinion on whether you look good or not isn't entirely accurate.  Find out why this week as I discuss how insecurities can affect what someone says to you when you ask them for an opinion on your hair or clothes...plus be prepared ahead of time with these comeback replies for when you are at a loss for words because you are feeling disappointed that they didn't 'love' your new look. psssssst.....wear it anyway, you look good! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair! Debra

I see in my shop people coming in with something that doesn't work for them simply because they were embarrassed to say 'no' or the sales tactics unscrupulous. Often people buy things that they don't want just to avoid saying "no".  Here are some tips to spot manipulative sales tactics and a few responses to be prepared with to empower you to say "No" gracefully. It's ok to say "No" and not to have to justify it.  But being prepared with some responses to have ready can help a lot! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim  

In my five years of having the shop, I see firsthand how beautiful, intelligent women get caught up in these five areas with overthinking things that really don't matter in the long run.  As someone who wears alternative hair and an overthinking "worrier' myself but also a confidence coach, here's some tips on how to not overthink it and just wear that wig or topper knowing you look gorgeous! If you want a free copy of my e-book "Too Much Hair: A Wig Shop Owner and Wearer's Guide to Wigs and Toppers just find it on Amazon on October 27 and 28, 2023 and get yourself a download for free during those two days! Until next time....Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair! Debra 

This week, I found an online article that someone wrote with do's and don'ts for wig wearing.  I go over the article with my thoughts, and while everyone has different experiences and opinions and I respect that, I can tell from the article that this woman may not have had a wig on that fits her head correctly.  This is not by any means an insult! I have had women in my shop that have worn wigs that were way too big or small for their head and since they had nothing to compare it to, and were trying to figure it all out themselves. The information in this article written about the risk of wigs flying off and stretching in water and slipping out of place because of turtleneck tops is quite frankly, not accurate.  If your wig fits, there isn't any situation that you have to worry about it accidentally flying off I promise you! Wear that alternative hair bravely and proudly!   Debra Heim Peace, Love and Alternative Hair  

Hi everyone! This week I had the chance to observe a woman who was clearly jealous of someone else's alternative hair!   At the bottom of it (IMO) a resentment of the fact that someone else could have hair that looked as good as hers that wasn't "homegrown'. I give the details on this and also describe a few other reactions that friends and family have been less than nice about someone's alternative hair.  Usually, at the bottom of it all, it's more an issue of self esteem and basing your worth on a given feature about yourself.  But we are all so uniquely beautiful in our own way, the Universe has a perfect plan for each and every person coming into this world so celebrate what makes you YOU!. It doesn't matter if you grew your hair or you bought it, it is YOURS and you should feel great about it!  Don't outsource your joy by listening to opinions that are trying to bring you down.  And if I can help you with any of that, let me know! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim  

After five years of helping over two thousand people in person, I can tell you a few of the reasons why the wig or hairpiece can look so different on your head.  Plus, my theories s why the wig always looks 'better' on someone else.  (Spoiler alert: it really doesn't, you just think it does). Drop by www.debraheim.com and sign up for my email list and I will send you my 16 page PDF E-Book "10 Steps to Making Your Style Memorable" just for signing up! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra xx

This week the pros and cons of shaving heads for wig wearing and some iconic examples of women characters with shaved heads is discussed.  The number one pro:  Confidence! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim

This week I discuss stress related hair loss (telegen effluvium) and how stress can affect hair growth in general.  As always, remember to consult your physician about your hair loss and regularly, but here are ten things you can do at home reported to help hair growth and strength. Balanced diet, mindfulness/meditation, exercise and plenty of water are key though, no matter what you do! Oh, and a supportive listener can do wonders for you too! Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair,  Debra Heim

This past week, someone brought to my attention a website that had "Debra" as part of the name and asked if it was a new line for me.  The site had pictures that were stolen from famous influencers and reputable websites.  By stealing pictures and using similar look alike names and fake reviews, that is just a few of the tactics that these scam artists trick unsuspecting buyers into thinking they are the real deal!  This week I talk about some of the things to look for.  But always, always, make sure you know who you are buying from!  That's the best way to avoid getting ripped off. Next best line of defense, ask before buying from a trusted wig group.     Get my 14 page e-book "10 Steps to Making Your Style Memorable" for FREE download by signing up at www.debraheim.com

Being true to yourself is what authenticity is about! It doesn't mean your physical appearance, it doesn't mean you can only have hair that you grew yourself.....let's talk about what authenticity means and why you aren't being 'fake' if you embrace alternative hair! Peace, love, and alternative hair!! Debra The ORIGINAL alternative hair alchemist ✌

This week we wrap up the last five of the top twenty searched questions by wearers of wigs and toppers. How to I properly clean and care for my wig? What is the difference between a lace front and a full lace wig? How long does a wig typically last with regular use? Can a wear a wig while swimming or exercising? Are there any specific tips for wearing a wig in hot weather? How do I secure my wig for a more natural and comfortable fit? Answers to these and many more questions are answered throughout all the episodes of this podcast.  I was very pleased when I reviewed all of the previous episodes because most every question was covered in depth much more than just today's episode.   Any if you have any burning wig questions, just drop me a line through the contact forms on the website or find me on social media.   Much peace, love and alternative hair to you! Debra xx

Here is the continuation of last week's episode covering the most commonly asked questions to Google (and myself) concerning alternative hair.  I cover the next five and next week we will wrap it up. The thing to remember is for every question, there is an answer and for every problem there is a solution! Looking back over the show's episodes I have done an episode for all of the questions and more.  You can find them by checking out the episode guide. Check the Very Best Little Hairhouse page for an episode guide to the episodes I mentioned, plus a chart for measuring and other helpful info. If I can help you with alternative hair, style, or mindset, you can find me at  www.debraheim.com  and www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com And, stay tuned for exciting news of in person events coming up that I will be doing starting soon!   Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair! Debra

This week in the first of a two part series, I will answer the questions most frequently searched on the internet about wigs.  The difference between me and the internet is I am going to give you answers based not only on my experience but also from the view of someone that has helped 1800 clients in person and counting!  Also, find out about how you can work with me on a deeper level!   Peace, Love and Alternative Hair! Debra Heim

Alternative hair is a great way to look salon fresh in minutes, or to change your look completely for a photo shoot or mood.  Slept in and have to do a Zoom in ten minutes? No problem, hair can be ready to go! Wigs and hairpieces have been used by celebs for years! The difference is they have someone who knows alternative hair to do it for them.  Listen for your chance to get a virtual makeover via style and color recommendations for a special listener price no matter where you live! Peace, Love and Alternative Hair, Debra Heim www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com 

If you are worried that someone "will know" you are wearing a wig or hairpiece, fear not! If you do it right, nobody has to know unless you tell them.  But here's a recap of the reactions you may get if you decide to tell someone that your hair is yours, but you didn't grow it!   www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com 

The time to replace your alternative hair is mainly up to you! My best advice is don't wait until the last minute! But here are the key things that I see that show wear in your alternative hair, and most importantly, don't feel guilty about self care!  Plus, a big surprise....a new shop opening in the USA!

Hand tied wigs take on the average, 40 hours to produce each, where wefted wigs take about 8 hours each according to one of the major manufacturers my shop carries.  But allow yourself to try a good one if you have the chance, here are the five advantages you will find. Thank you for listening and as always, Peace, Love and Alternative Hair! Debra Heim www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com

Sometimes you can get a really great deal on buying a wig or topper that simply didn't work for someone else.  It's a great way to snag a bargain, if you know what to look for and most of all, trust the seller!

Alternative hair scams are out there in full force!  Here are some of the tactics scammers use to fool and manipulate you. www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com www.debraheim.com 

This week I will break down the differences in cap designs and what that means for you.  Also there will be a short video to go along with this episode posted on YouTube and also in the Wise Wig Advice and Support Group that can be found on Very Best Little Hairhouse's Facebook page to show you the differences along with the explanation. www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com www.debraheim.com Peace, Love, and Alternative Hair! Debra

This week I will give you the guidelines on how to determine if you are cool, warm, or neutral as far as skin tones and what hair colors are flattering to them.  Here's the thing, though:  rules were made to be broken as far as I am concerned and I say the real test is to try it in person to tell for sure!  I'm a very visual person as far as that goes in guessing what colors look good,  And I can tell you this for sure, more colors are going to work for you than you might think!

One of the biggest concerns alternative hair wearers can have is that someone will "know" they have a wig or topper on and will ask the dreaded "Is that a wig?" Here's the different types of responses I've experienced when I choose to reveal that "Yes, it is indeed a wig!".  The good news is that if you do alternative hair right, you won't ever be asked....but here's what to expect if you do choose to do  a "reveal".  

If you are afraid of looking 'fake' in a synthetic, let me tell you that those days are over!  Here's my top reasons why synthetic is the way to go for the most part, especially if you are in the experimentation phase of alternative hair styles and colors.  

Whether you have a round, square, heart shape, diamond or classic shaped face, there is a style that is recommended for you, and I am going to run through them.  Spoiler alert:  a longer side swept bang is flattering to all faces (according to the hair style experts).  But rules are made to be broken and I have seen all kinds of different styles work on different faces in my shop.....and with alternative hair the only limits are the ones you set on yourself! Speaking of style, I will be having a free masterclass in my "Activate Your Pizzazz" series which will be on my personal profile on my Facebook page.  You can sign up for exclusive content at www.debraheim.com and/or add me on Facebook. And as always....peace, love and alternative hair! Debra  

Even to this day, I find there are women who are terrified at the thought of someone finding out or knowing they are wearing a wig or topper. Why is that?  Because most people have pretty significant memories of a bad wig or toupee.  There's no need for that anymore, the alternative hair out there now is amazing!  Here's some of my thoughts and observations.  And as always, when you become aware that you have a fear holding you back, the first step to changing it is to become aware of it!   Peace, Love and Alternative Hair! Debra

Changing your color or style is always an adjustment and there is a phase where it might seem like a huge mistake.......but it's not! It's just part of the process.  Here's my process to adapt to new colors and styles. 

Choosing a first wig or topper? Consider these 5 tips.

It's warming up in my part of the US and I often get asked if I have or know of any wigs or hairpieces that are "good for summer", meaning less 'hot' than others.  You can look at these three things when choosing your hair to help you decide if it might be cooler than another. I'm sure there are wigs being sold as "summer" or "hot weather" wigs but here's the three biggest factors to considerer if one wig or topper might be heavier than another.   www.debraheim.com www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com  

Not everything you may hear or read on the internet is accurate for everyone.  Often people think a wig is going to look 'more natural' if it is human hair, if it has a lace front, or if it is hand-tied.  This should help you understand that not all wigs or toppers are bad just because they aren't human hair or are classic construction. www.verybestlittlehairhouse.com www.debraheim.com @debrathewiglady on Twitter