Michael Jackson and His Use of Wigs

Michael Jackson, the iconic pop star, was known for his incredible performances and his unique look. Among the many fashion and grooming choices he made, wearing wigs was a significant part of his image. This article explores the reasons and frequency with which Michael Jackson used wigs throughout his career.

The Reason Behind Wigs

One of the main reasons Michael Jackson began wearing wigs was due to a severe accident he suffered during a Pepsi commercial shoot in 1984. The incident led to burns on his scalp, which prevented his hair from growing back. Additionally, Michael Jackson had Lupus, which contributed to further hair loss. These medical conditions necessitated the use of wigs as a practical solution to maintain his iconic look and protect his damaged scalp.

Wigs were not the only solution Michael Jackson turned to. Like many other artists, he had a team of professionals including wardrobe designers, hairdressers, and makeup artists to help him achieve his desired look. For instance, when his hair was long and straight, he might have used wigs or extensions. During his younger years, when he had an afro, it's believed he likely had natural hair. As he aged, his hair might have started falling out, leading to increased reliance on wigs.

Detailed Look at the Accidents and Aftermath

The Pepsi commercial incident specifically involved a high-beam light that exploded, causing burns on Michael Jackson's hair. The incident happened while the jerry curl hairstyle was popular, and the product used to manage this style was also flammable. This led to first and second-degree burns on part of his scalp. Despite the severity of the burns, efforts were made to control the fire. However, some areas of his scalp were damaged beyond what could support natural hair growth, necessitating the use of wigs.

Interestingly, while wearing a wig to cover the burned area, it is noted that on one side of his head, there were weaves. It is uncertain whether these weaves were genuine hair or extensions, but given Michael Jackson's financial status, it is plausible that he sought professional haircare services. Moreover, due to the nature of wigs and the maintenance they require, it is believed that the side with the weaves might be his natural hair.

Conclusion

Michael Jackson's use of wigs was a strategic choice driven by medical necessity and aesthetic preferences. From the burns caused by the Pepsi commercial to his aging and medical conditions, wigs played a crucial role in his image and performance. Michael Jackson’s multi-faceted approach to managing his image highlights the importance of a professional team and innovative solutions in the world of entertainment and fashion.