For over 25 years, Lisa Lindner has been in the beauty industry, perfecting her craft as a hairstylist. But her journey took quite a turn when she began specializing in wigs and hair toppers. As the owner of Wigs by Opulence Salon, Lisa focuses on providing hope for individuals experiencing hair loss. Her mission? To help clients regain their confidence and embrace their natural beauty with the perfect, customized wig.
Lisa’s path into wig design began when her career as a hair extension specialist led her to new challenges. "I started noticing a different type of hair loss among my clients," she shares. One key moment shaped the trajectory she would take: a client with inflamed scalp issues that made extensions impossible. “I told her we couldn’t continue with the extensions, and she was devastated. I realized then that I didn’t have the right solution for her.”
From that experience, Lisa began her research and discovered the gaps in the wig industry. While larger wig shops existed, few offered the personalization and expert care that clients with sensitive scalps and medical conditions needed. “Most shops don’t customize or color wigs the way I do. At my salon, we custom color each wig to create a more realistic look, tailoring it to match the client’s natural tones or preferences. I wanted to provide something better,” she explains.
Her salon now specializes in medical wigs designed for those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or dealing with alopecia. These wigs feature softer caps for sensitive scalps, HD lace for a natural hairline, and low-density options for those unaccustomed to the volume of traditional wigs. “Low-density wigs are our best sellers because they look and feel more natural to someone experiencing hair loss,” Lisa says.
Creating Breathtaking and Uplifting Transformations
Lisa’s work goes far beyond creating wigs—it’s about bettering lives. She recalls a client whose depression left her hair severely matted and unkempt. “Her husband called me, saying she needed help but was too ashamed to come in. When she arrived, she was in tears,” Lisa recounts.
The client wanted to look her best for her son’s wedding, so Lisa gave her a fresh, short haircut and customized a wig that matched her personality. By the end of the appointment, the woman’s demeanor had completely shifted. “She started coming out of her shell, and I could see her confidence growing. That’s why I do this—it’s about making people feel like themselves again. From custom coloring to on-site alterations using our specialized sewing machine, every detail is personalized to create a perfect fit for each client.”
Breaking Down Stigmas
Despite her success, Lisa acknowledges the challenges of educating others about glueless wigs and medical hair loss solutions. “There’s still a negative stigma around wigs. People think they’re unnatural or only for costume wear,” she explains. So, she regularly visits clinics and drops off brochures to raise awareness. “I want doctors to know I’m here to help, but it’s been hard to get responses. Education is key to changing perceptions.”
The need for high-quality wigs is growing—40% of women over 50 experience female pattern hair loss. Many also face emotional struggles tied to their appearance. “I hear from clients who don’t even want to look in the mirror or leave their homes. They’re not happy with how they look and don’t want to show themselves to anyone else. But once they put on a wig that feels right, their confidence skyrockets,” Lisa shares.
In Minnesota, a new law going into effect in January 2025 will provide up to $1,000 in insurance coverage for wigs for medical hair loss. Lisa sees this as a significant step forward but believes there’s still work to be done in connecting people with the right resources.
A Vision for the Future
Lisa’s trademark low-density, glueless, human hair wigs are designed with love to meet the unique needs of her clients. "The synthetic market is oversaturated," she explains. "My business focuses on realistic, human hair wigs that look and feel like the real thing."
Her commitment to quality and customization is what makes Wigs by Opulence different from the competition. Lisa’s work isn’t just about wigs; it’s about creating a space for clients to be supported, seen, and understood. “My assistant, Andrea—who handles most of our consultations and is a huge part of my business—always says it’s unusual for someone like me to build an entire career around wigs.
“Most people in this industry get into it because of their own experience with hair loss. But for me, it’s not about personal need; it’s about compassion for my guests and fulfilling a real need in their lives. I love being able to give them confidence and help them feel like themselves again.”
Did You Know?
Starting January 1, 2025, Minnesota health insurance plans will cover up to $1,000 for glueless wigs. This groundbreaking initiative supports individuals experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions. Visit Wigs by Opulence Salon to explore your options for high-quality, customizable wigs designed for comfort and confidence.
“I see clients who don’t want to look in the mirror, but the right wig can change everything.”