How to Take Care of a Wig
This article will talk about how to take care of a wig.
Wigs require a significant amount of investment, in both production and upkeep. Not to mention the lengthy process of picking which wig to purchase from the numerous color, style, and texture options available.
We will give you tips to keep your wigs in tip-top condition. Keep reading to learn more!
Why Taking Care of a Wig is Important
No wig lasts forever, the longer you use a wig, the more it will deteriorate. Understanding how to wash and care for a wig properly helps keep it in good condition, and you can avoid fiber damage and maintain the quality of your wig for a longer time.
By taking time to maintain its condition, your investment will be worth it each time you wear it. Here are some tips to remember when caring for your wigs:
Do’s of Taking Care of a Wig
Here are what you need to do to care for your wig properly.
Learn the Difference Between Human Hair and Synthetic Wigs
Generally, human hair is more durable and heat-resistant than synthetic hair. This is because human hair has a natural protective layer made up of cuticles, making it more resilient towards styling.
But not all human hair wigs are created equally. The more expensive type of hair, virgin human hair, still has all of its cuticles intact. Remy hair has less cuticles left, while non-Remy hair wigs have been completely stripped of their cuticles, which makes them cheap but brittle.
On the other hand, synthetic hair is an artificial option created from plastic. We have written a detailed article “Human Hair Wigs vs Synthetic Hair Wigs“. Check it out if you are interested in learning more about their similarities, differences, pros and cons.
Use Specialized Products (Shampoo, Conditioner, and Wig Comb)
Both synthetic and human hair wigs also can’t produce the natural oils (sebum) and nutrients that hair growing on your scalp has. So, one of the most important tips in taking care of wigs is to use products specifically designed for human hair and/or synthetic hair wigs.
Standard shampoos and conditioners that people use daily tend to include harsh chemicals like sulfates that could harm the texture of the wig’s hair, especially if it is synthetic.
When choosing a comb for your wig, always opt for a wide-toothed one or one specifically designed for wigs. This will make combing easier and less likely to cause hair to fall out of the wig.
Be Gentle While Washing
Unlike your natural hair, different techniques are required to clean/wash a wig. You must soak it in wig shampoo and water in a basin for a while. Then, gently run your fingers inside the wig cap to remove any excess dirt or build-up.
Afterward, thoroughly rinse the wig with lukewarm water to remove all of the product. Finally, gently detangle the wig with a wide-tooth comb starting from the ends up to the base, and then let it air dry.
Remember that combing the wig after washing it is sufficient—no need to rub or massage it!
We have filmed a video about how to wash your human hair wigs properly, hope it is going to give you some useful information.
Keep Your Wig Covered and Safe
Store your wig in a cool and dry area when you are not wearing it. If you use it regularly, put it on a mannequin head, or a wig stand so that it is upright and not twisted. If you don’t plan on using it for a while, store it in a box, a plastic container, or a silk bag to avoid collecting dust.
Leave Styling to the Professionals (Optional)
You can style your wig on your own, but you can also leave it to a professional if you’re unsure what to do. Remember that your wig’s hair won’t grow back if you accidentally cut it the wrong way, and it will most likely get damaged if you use the wrong amount of heat.
So visit a hairdresser. Several salons offer services for maintaining and styling wigs. These professionals can assist you.
Don’t Forget About Your Own Hair
Keep your own hair clean and conditioned! Wearing a wig does not excuse filthy, unruly, or dry hair. Always braid or tie your hair back so it doesn’t show when you put on your wig. Also, use a wig cap since it simplifies hiding your hair and keeps it clean.
Don’ts of Taking Care of a Wig
Here are the things you should avoid to care for your wigs properly.
Don’t Go Overboard in Using Sprays on Your Wig
Putting on too much product will make the wig’s hair more likely to tangle, break, or get oily and difficult to manage. This is especially true if you use various products simultaneously, like a holding spray and glossy spray combo. It’s okay to spritz a little here and there, but don’t overdo it.
Avoid Too Much Heat
If not done well, heat when styling can harm your wig. You can use heating tools to style human hair wigs made from virgin and Remy hair, as long as you don’t use them too often.
Avoid heat-styling synthetic wigs unless it is heat-resistant, since heat will melt off the fibers. Always remember to check the directions that came with your wig to see how much, if any, heat is permitted.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Remember to keep wigs in a cool and dry place, away from the sun. The UV rays from the sun will make the hair brittle.
Don’t Wet Your Wig Unless It’s for Washing
Refrain from taking a shower while wearing your wig. If you are wearing an install, you should put on a shower cap to protect the wig hair from getting wet.
You should also remove your wig if it’s raining heavily. Leaving the hairs wet will get them all tangled up, frizzy, dirty, and knotted from the rainwater.
Don’t Sleep with Your Wig On
It is generally not recommended to wear wigs when sleeping. But if you must, you can tie it with a satin or silk scarf and use a satin or silk pillowcase, and this will hopefully prevent tangles, knots, and frizz.
Wrapping Up
Wigs are decorative fashion items. Like anything else, how well you take care of it will determine how long it will last. Follow the dos and dont’s of wig care, and you should be able to keep your wigs looking good for a longer time.
