Here’s a complete guide on how to care for your human hair wig, with tips on washing, conditioning, styling, storing, and more.
Human hair wigs are popular because they look natural, feel soft, and offer styling versatility. Unlike synthetic wigs, human hair wigs can be washed, styled, and even coloured, giving wearers more freedom. But to keep a human hair wig looking its best, proper care is essential. Whether you wear your wig daily or for special occasions, a thoughtful care routine will extend its lifespan and keep it looking fresh.
Here are 7 Best Tips on How to Care for Your Human Hair Wig:
1. Regular Washing and Conditioning
Keeping your human hair wig clean is essential to maintain its lustre and softness. However, washing too frequently can strip the hair of essential moisture, so aim to wash your wig every 7-10 wears, or when you notice a build-up of products or oils.
Washing Steps:
- Brush the Wig: Gently detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Start from the ends and work up to the roots to avoid pulling or breaking the strands.
- Use Lukewarm Water: Rinse the wig under lukewarm water. Hot water can damage the hair fibres and weaken the wig cap.
- Shampoo: Use a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo, ideally one formulated for color-treated hair. Apply a small amount to the wig, gently massaging it into the hair. Avoid scrubbing or twisting the hair, as this can cause tangling.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse out all shampoo with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
Conditioning:
- Apply Conditioner: While the wig is still damp, apply a moisturizing conditioner, avoiding the roots to prevent product build-up on the cap.
- Let It Sit: Leave the conditioner on for 2-5 minutes to allow it to deeply penetrate the hair.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the wig with lukewarm water. Gently blot it with a towel to remove excess water—avoid wringing or twisting. Place the wig on a wig stand to air dry.
Radiance Hair Clinic, a trusted name in wig care, recommends using high-quality, paraben-free products to prevent product build-up, which can lead to dullness or stiffness over time.
2. Styling Your Wig Safely
One of the best parts of owning a human hair wig is that you can style it as you would natural hair. But, as with natural hair, heat styling can damage a wig if done too frequently or without the right precautions.
Tips for Heat Styling:
- Limit Heat Exposure: Use heat styling tools sparingly, as excessive heat can cause hair fibers to become brittle and frizzy.
- Use a Heat Protectant: Always apply a heat protectant spray before using any heat-styling tools, such as flat irons or curling irons.
- Keep Tools at Low to Medium Heat: Set your styling tools to a low or medium heat setting (under 350°F) to avoid burning the hair fibers.
Non-Heat Styling Options:
For days when you want a quick style without the risk of heat damage, try rollers, braiding, or twisting the hair while it’s damp. These methods create natural waves or curls without the need for heat, keeping the hair healthier.
Radiance Hair Clinic emphasizes the importance of keeping your styling routine as gentle as possible, helping your wig retain its original quality for a longer time.
3. Detangling the Right Way
Human hair wigs, like natural hair, can become tangled, especially if exposed to wind or worn frequently. Detangling should be done carefully to avoid breaking the hair strands.
Detangling Tips:
- Start Gently: Use a wide-tooth comb or a special wig brush to detangle.
- Work from Ends to Roots: This method reduces tension on the hair fibers, preventing unnecessary breakage.
- Use a Leave-In Conditioner: If the wig is particularly tangled, a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray can help make the process easier. Radiance Hair Clinic suggests using a lightweight, silicone-free spray to add slip without making the wig look greasy.
4. Proper Storage
Storing your wig correctly is just as important as washing and styling it. Proper storage prevents tangling, frizz, and deformation of the wig cap.
Storage Tips:
- Use a Wig Stand: When not in use, place the wig on a wig stand to help it retain its shape.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause color fading and dryness.
- Protect from Dust: If you’re not planning to use your wig for an extended period, cover it with a silk scarf or place it in a satin-lined bag to keep it clean.
5. Moisturize Regularly
Unlike natural hair, a wig does not receive oils from the scalp. This means the strands can dry out over time, especially with frequent washing and styling.
Moisturizing Tips:
- Use Hair Oils or Serums: Apply a small amount of hair oil or serum, focusing on the ends. Argan oil, coconut oil, or lightweight serums work well to add shine without weighing the hair down.
- Deep Conditioning: Consider deep conditioning the wig once a month to restore moisture. Use a nourishing hair mask designed for human hair wigs.
Radiance Hair Clinic recommends avoiding heavy products, as they can build up on the wig and make it look dull.
6. Professional Wig Care Services
Even with diligent care at home, taking your wig to a professional every few months can make a big difference. Professionals at places like Radiance Hair Clinic can provide services like deep cleansing, re-styling, and cap adjustments that help maintain your wig’s shape and texture. Additionally, if you ever want to color your wig, it’s best to have it done by a professional, as improper coloring can damage the hair fibers.
7. Avoiding Common Mistakes
While caring for your human hair wig, it’s easy to make mistakes that can reduce its lifespan. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Don’t Overwash: Washing too often can strip the hair of moisture. Stick to a washing schedule of every 7-10 wears.
- Avoid Harsh Products: Only use products specifically designed for human hair wigs or color-treated hair.
- Don’t Sleep or Shower with Your Wig On: Sleeping in your wig can lead to tangling while showering can expose it to water damage.
By following these tips, you’ll keep your human hair wig in top shape for a long time.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a human hair wig may seem overwhelming at first, but once you establish a routine, it becomes much easier. With regular washing, gentle styling, and proper storage, you’ll keep your wig looking as good as new. Radiance Hair Clinic reminds wig wearers that investing in good care practices not only protects your investment but also keeps your wig looking natural and beautiful.
Whether it’s for fashion, convenience, or necessity, a human hair wig can be a wonderful asset. By taking the time to care for it well, you’ll enjoy its benefits for years to come.
