Human hair wigs are a significant investment, prized for their natural look and versatility. Unlike synthetic wigs, they offer the styling flexibility of natural hair. However, to maintain their beauty and longevity, proper care is essential. Just like your own hair, human hair wigs require regular washing, conditioning, careful styling, and correct storage. This guide provides you with a comprehensive understanding of how to care for your human hair wig, ensuring it remains a stunning accessory for years to come.
In this article, we will delve into the essential steps for maintaining your human hair wig. From washing and conditioning techniques to styling tips and storage solutions, we’ll cover everything you need to know. We will also address common questions to help you confidently care for your wig and avoid common mistakes.
How Often to Wash Your Human Hair Wig
Determining the frequency of washing your human hair wig is crucial to its upkeep. Generally, aim to wash and condition your real human hair wig every 6 to 8 wears. Since human hair wigs don’t receive natural oils from a scalp like your own hair, they require deep conditioning treatments more frequently. Incorporate a deep conditioner into your routine every other wash to replenish moisture and maintain the hair’s luster.
When applying conditioner, remember to focus on the mid-shaft to the ends of the hair. Avoid applying conditioner to the wig cap or base as it can weaken the knots and potentially lead to shedding. Always opt for hair care products specifically formulated for color-treated hair, as these are gentler and designed to preserve the wig’s color and integrity. If you use heat styling tools like blow dryers or straighteners, protect your wig with heat protectant sprays, oils, or serums applied to the ends to prevent damage and dryness. Remember, these are general guidelines; adjust your washing routine based on your wig’s needs and how often you style it.
Preparing Your Human Hair Wig for Washing
Before you begin washing your wig, gentle detangling is key. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to carefully remove any knots or tangles. Always start from the ends of the hair and slowly work your way up to the roots. Avoid using a brush, as it can be too harsh and may cause breakage or excessive shedding, especially for delicate human hair. Taking the time to properly detangle before washing will make the process smoother and help maintain the wig’s overall condition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Your Human Hair Wig
Washing your human hair wig correctly is vital to maintaining its quality and appearance. Unlike washing your natural hair, you should never soak or submerge your wig completely in water. Instead, rinse it under cool running water, allowing the water to flow from the roots down to the ends.
Next, take a small amount of shampoo designed for color-treated hair in your hand. Gently and evenly distribute the shampoo through the wig, starting at the roots and moving down to the ends in smooth strokes. Once the shampoo is applied, rinse the wig thoroughly under cool, running water until the water runs clear, ensuring all shampoo is removed. After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water – never twist or wring the wig, as this can damage the hair fibers and the cap structure.
Conditioning Your Human Hair Wig for Softness and Longevity
Conditioning is a critical step in human hair wig care, helping to replenish moisture and keep the hair soft and manageable. Apply a small amount of conditioner, again formulated for color-treated hair, to your hand. Gently work the conditioner into the wig, starting from the mid-shaft and moving down to the ends. It’s crucial to avoid applying conditioner to the wig base, as this can weaken the knots and potentially lead to shedding.
Let the conditioner sit on the wig for 1 to 2 minutes, or as instructed by the conditioner’s manufacturer, but generally no longer than 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse the conditioner out thoroughly under cool, running water. Gently squeeze out excess water, or pat the wig dry with a clean, dry towel. Again, avoid twisting or wringing. Place your wig on a wig stand to air dry completely. Once dry, you can style your wig as desired, using your fingers to gently shape and arrange the hair.
Styling Your Human Hair Wig: Heat Styling and More
Human hair wigs offer the versatility of styling just like your natural hair. If you choose to heat style your wig, there are several methods you can use:
- Straightening: To straighten your wig, divide the hair into 1-inch sections. Using a flat iron, gently run it down each section from root to tip, ensuring smooth, straight strands.
- Curling: For curls, wrap sections of hair around a curling iron. Hold each section for about 10 seconds before releasing to create beautiful curls or waves.
- Hairspray: Once you’ve achieved your desired style, you can use hairspray to set the look and provide longer-lasting hold.
Remember to always use heat protectant products before applying heat to your wig to prevent damage and maintain its integrity.
Properly Storing Your Human Hair Wig
Proper storage is essential for preserving the style and condition of your human hair wig when you’re not wearing it. To maintain its shape and prevent tangling, use a canvas block, Styrofoam head, or a folding wig stand for storage. These options keep the wig upright and allow air circulation, preventing it from becoming matted or misshapen. Storing your wig correctly will extend its lifespan and keep it ready to wear whenever you desire.
Essential Tips and Tricks for Human Hair Wig Care
To ensure your human hair wig stays in excellent condition, consider these additional tips and tricks:
- Pre-washing: Human hair wigs should be washed or at least rinsed before their first wear. Wigs cannot be worn straight out of the box. This initial wash is often handled when you purchase from a reputable wig store.
- Cool Water is Key: Always use cool or lukewarm water when washing and rinsing your wig. Hot water can dry out the hair fibers and potentially damage the wig cap, especially for medical wigs which are designed for sensitive scalps.
- Avoid Mannequin Heads for Drying: Never dry your wig on a solid form or mannequin head, as this can stretch the wig cap out of shape. Opt for a Styrofoam head or canvas block for drying instead.
- Avoid Wearing During Certain Activities: Do not sleep, swim, or shower while wearing your wig. These activities can cause tangling, damage, and reduce the lifespan of your wig.
- Wig Stand for Daily Storage: Store your wig on a wig stand when not in use to prevent crimps, kinks, and maintain its style.
- Handle Lace Wigs with Care: Lace wigs, especially lace front wigs, are delicate. Avoid pulling or tugging on the lace to prevent tearing or damage.
- Gentle Detangling Tools: Always use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb for detangling. Brushes can be too harsh and cause unnecessary shedding.
- Professional Services: For any cuts or chemical processes, it’s best to seek a professional stylist experienced with human hair wigs. DIY attempts can potentially damage your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Human Hair Wigs
Here are answers to some common questions about caring for human hair wigs:
Can You Use Regular Shampoo on Human Hair Wigs?
Yes, you can use regular shampoo on human hair wigs, but it’s highly recommended to use shampoos formulated for color-treated hair. Human hair wigs undergo chemical processing and lack natural oils, unlike your own hair. Avoid clarifying shampoos as they can strip essential oils and cause dryness. Color-treated shampoos are gentler and help maintain the wig’s moisture and color.
Is Hot Water Bad for Human Hair Wigs?
Yes, hot water is not recommended for washing human hair wigs. Cool or lukewarm water is best. Lukewarm water is effective for rinsing out products while being gentle enough to protect the hair fibers and wig cap. Hot water can lead to dryness, damage the hair, and potentially loosen the wig cap’s construction.
What’s the Best Oil for Human Hair Wigs?
The ends of human hair wigs are prone to dryness and split ends. Applying a light oil to the ends can provide needed moisture and protection. Excellent oil choices include olive oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, and coconut oil. These oils are known for their moisturizing properties and ability to nourish human hair. When using oils or cream-based moisturizers, apply them sparingly to the ends and avoid the wig base to prevent buildup and potential shedding.
Wig Shampoo vs. Regular Shampoo: What’s the Difference?
Wig shampoos, particularly those designed for synthetic wigs, are typically very mild and gentle. They are formulated to cleanse and freshen the wig without stripping the fibers. Regular shampoos, designed for natural hair, often contain stronger cleansing agents to remove product buildup and natural scalp oils. While you can use regular shampoo on human hair wigs, conditioning afterward is crucial to restore moisture that might be lost during washing.
Conclusion
Investing in a human hair wig is choosing a beautiful and versatile hair solution. By following these comprehensive care tips for washing, conditioning, styling, and storing your wig, you can significantly extend its life and maintain its stunning appearance. Proper care not only preserves your investment but also ensures your wig always looks its best, giving you confidence and style every time you wear it.
