Modern wigs are an amazing addition to anyone’s look and style. The human hair wig market is currently valued at $1,75 billion and is expected to grow in the next few years.
But human hair wigs aren’t anything new and have long been part of people’s beauty kits for elevating their everyday look, as tools for medical needs, and for use in the entertainment industry too.
Whether you need a human hair wig for everyday wear to cover thinning natural hair or you simply want to change your look and style, you can find real hair wigs in a vast array of lengths, colours, styles, and hair types.
But how do you care for your human hair wig once you have purchased it and started wearing it? Understanding the correct care for your human hair wig can extend its lifespan and keep it looking good for every wear. Let’s take a look at some of the best human hair wig care practices.
Gentle Detangling
It goes without saying you should keep your wig tangle-free at all times. You wouldn’t let tangles build up in your own hair, so don’t do it to your wig either. Part of the care and upkeep is detangling it regularly.
- Use a wide-toothed comb or a specific wig brush
- Work from the ends up to the roots
- Be firm but gentle, and don’t tug tangles excessively
Washing Your Wig
It cannot be overstated enough that overwashing your wig is a big no-no.
Overwashing can strip the wig of its natural oils, causing it to lose its shine and softness. Experts recommend that you avoid washing your wig more frequently than every six weeks unless it becomes dirty in between washes.
- Wash your wig using lukewarm water
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo or a shampoo designed for human hair wigs
- Lather the shampoo into the hair, but do not rub vigorously or twist the hair, as this can cause tangling or excess damage and breakage
Conditioning Human Hair Wigs
You need to make sure you use a nourishing conditioner to keep your wig soft and smooth. Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends, not the top of the wig, as this is where wigs are more likely to need it and be drier. Always rinse thoroughly after the post-conditioning treatment.
When you have washed and conditioned your wig, make sure you gently pat the hair dry, do not wring it with a towel as this can cause tangles and damage to the hair.
Drying Your Wig
Ideally, you want to let your wig air dry as much as possible. However, this isn’t always possible, and if you need to use heat to dry your wig, use the lowest settings and don’t get too close to the hair to avoid heat damage. The less heat your wig is exposed to over time, the better.
Drying tips for hair wigs for women include
- Air drying where possible
- Use heat to dry on the lowest settings
- Keep appliances at least 6 inches from the hair
- Place on a wig stand prior to drying
- Do not leave your wig in direct sunlight to dry
Styling and Definition
Even with the best care and attention, over time, your wig may lose its shape or definition. In such cases, a professional stylist, especially one who specializes in wig care, can help you restore its original look. This occasional professional touch-up will ensure your wig maintains its quality and shape, giving it a new lease of life when needed.