Human hair wigs are a fantastic investment. They offer versatility, style, and confidence. However, unlike your natural hair, a wig requires specific care to maintain its beauty, longevity, and realistic appearance. Proper daily care is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to keep your human hair wig looking its best.
Understanding Human Hair Wig Types
Before diving into the daily care routine, it’s important to understand the different types of human hair used in wigs. The origin and processing of the hair significantly impact how you should care for it.
Virgin Hair
Virgin hair is considered the highest quality because it is completely unprocessed. This means it hasn’t been chemically treated, dyed, permed, or bleached. It retains its natural cuticle layer, making it exceptionally soft, shiny, and long-lasting. Virgin hair wigs require gentle care and high-quality products.
Remy Hair
Remy hair is collected with the cuticles aligned in the same direction. This alignment minimizes tangling and matting. Remy hair wigs are also of excellent quality and generally easier to style than non-Remy hair.
Non-Remy Hair
Non-Remy hair has cuticles that are not aligned. This type of hair is often treated to remove the cuticle layer or coated with silicone to give it a temporary shine. Non-Remy hair wigs are more prone to tangling and have a shorter lifespan. They typically require more frequent and intensive conditioning.
The Daily Essentials: Your Human Hair Wig Care Routine
Daily care is the cornerstone of maintaining a beautiful and long-lasting human hair wig. These simple steps can make a significant difference.
Brushing and Detangling
One of the most important daily tasks is brushing your wig. This prevents tangles and keeps the hair smooth.
- Use the Right Brush: Opt for a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush specifically designed for human hair wigs. These tools are gentle and won’t snag or damage the delicate strands.
- Start from the Bottom: Begin brushing from the ends of the hair, working your way up to the roots. This method prevents tangles from tightening and causing breakage.
- Be Gentle: Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair. If you encounter a knot, gently work it out with your fingers or a detangling spray.
- Frequency: Brush your wig at least once a day, and more often if you’re wearing it for extended periods or if it’s prone to tangling.
Storing Your Wig Properly
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape and style of your wig. How you store it overnight and when not in use significantly impacts its lifespan.
- Wig Stand or Mannequin Head: The best way to store your wig is on a wig stand or mannequin head. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming flattened or tangled.
- Clean Before Storing: Before placing your wig on the stand, ensure it’s clean and detangled.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your wig away from direct sunlight and heat sources. These can fade the color and damage the hair fibers.
- Protective Covering: Consider covering your wig with a silk or satin scarf to further protect it from dust and friction.
Choosing the Right Products
Using the correct products is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your human hair wig. Regular hair products can be too harsh and damage the delicate hair fibers.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner: Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Choose sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner formulated for human hair wigs.
- Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair hydrated and prevent tangling. Apply a small amount after washing and conditioning.
- Heat Protectant Spray: If you use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. This will shield the hair from damage.
- Wig Oil or Serum: A lightweight wig oil or serum can add shine and smoothness to the hair. Use sparingly to avoid weighing it down.
- Avoid Heavy Products: Steer clear of heavy creams, gels, and mousses, as these can build up on the hair and make it look dull and greasy.
Addressing Common Daily Challenges
Wearing a human hair wig every day can present some unique challenges. Knowing how to address these issues will help you keep your wig looking its best.
Preventing and Managing Tangles
Tangles are a common issue with human hair wigs, especially longer styles. Regular brushing and the right products can help prevent them.
- Detangling Spray: Keep a detangling spray on hand for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
- Gentle Detangling: When detangling, be patient and work slowly. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair.
- Braiding for Sleep: If you’re wearing your wig to bed, consider braiding it loosely to prevent tangling during the night.
Dealing with Dryness
Human hair wigs don’t receive natural oils from the scalp, so they can become dry over time. Hydration is key to keeping the hair healthy and manageable.
- Deep Conditioning: Deep condition your wig regularly, at least once a week. Use a hydrating hair mask or treatment specifically designed for human hair wigs.
- Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your bedroom can help add moisture to the air and prevent your wig from drying out overnight.
- Limit Washing: Over-washing can strip the hair of its natural oils. Wash your wig only when necessary, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Minimizing Shedding
Some shedding is normal with human hair wigs, but excessive shedding can be a sign of damage or improper care.
- Handle with Care: Be gentle when handling your wig. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair, especially around the base.
- Seal the Knots: If you have a lace front wig, consider sealing the knots with a knot sealer. This can help prevent shedding.
- Professional Care: If you’re experiencing excessive shedding, consult a professional wig stylist. They can assess the condition of your wig and recommend appropriate treatments.
Maintaining the Style
Keeping your wig styled and looking fresh requires some daily maintenance.
- Re-styling: Depending on the style, you may need to re-style your wig daily. Use heat styling tools sparingly and always apply a heat protectant spray.
- Setting Products: Use lightweight setting products, such as hairspray or mousse, to hold the style in place.
- Professional Styling: Consider taking your wig to a professional stylist for regular trims and styling. This will help maintain its shape and prevent split ends.
Extending the Life of Your Human Hair Wig
Beyond daily care, there are other steps you can take to extend the life of your human hair wig.
Proper Washing Techniques
Washing your wig correctly is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance.
- Fill a basin with cool water: Add a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo formulated for wigs.
- Gently submerge the wig: Swirl the wig gently in the water, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the wig under cool running water until all the shampoo is removed.
- Apply conditioner: Apply a generous amount of conditioner to the wig, focusing on the ends.
- Let the conditioner sit: Allow the conditioner to sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Drying Your Wig Correctly
How you dry your wig is just as important as how you wash it.
- Gently blot the wig: Use a towel to gently blot the wig, removing excess water.
- Avoid wringing or twisting: Wringing or twisting the wig can damage the hair fibers.
- Air dry: Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head. Avoid using a hairdryer, as the heat can damage the hair.
- Style when dry: Once the wig is completely dry, you can style it as desired.
Protecting Your Wig During Sleep
If you wear your wig to bed, take steps to protect it from damage.
- Silk or satin scarf or bonnet: Wrap your wig in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to reduce friction and prevent tangling.
- Loose braid: Consider braiding your wig loosely to further protect it from tangling.
- Silk pillowcase: Sleep on a silk pillowcase to minimize friction between your wig and the pillow.
Professional Maintenance
Regular professional maintenance can help keep your wig in top condition.
- Professional cleaning: Consider having your wig professionally cleaned every few months.
- Professional styling: A professional stylist can trim and style your wig to maintain its shape and prevent split ends.
- Repair services: If your wig is damaged, a professional can often repair it.
By following these tips and establishing a consistent daily care routine, you can keep your human hair wig looking beautiful and extend its lifespan. Remember that consistency and gentle handling are key to maintaining the health and beauty of your investment.
What is the best way to wash a human hair wig daily?
Washing a human hair wig daily is generally not recommended as it can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and damage. Instead, focus on gentle daily maintenance like brushing and storing the wig properly. If you feel your wig needs cleaning daily, use a dry shampoo specifically designed for wigs to refresh it without water.
For a full wash, aim for every 7-10 wears, or when you notice significant product buildup. When you do wash, use a sulfate-free shampoo formulated for human hair wigs. Gently lather the shampoo in a downward motion, avoiding tangling or rubbing. Rinse thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water until all the shampoo is gone.
How should I detangle my human hair wig daily?
Detangling your human hair wig daily is crucial for maintaining its lifespan and preventing excessive shedding. Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush specifically designed for detangling. Start at the ends of the hair and gently work your way up to the roots, taking small sections at a time.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray designed for wigs before brushing to provide extra lubrication and minimize friction. Avoid pulling or tugging at knots, as this can damage the hair fibers. Be patient and persistent, gently working through any tangles you encounter.
What type of styling products are safe to use on a human hair wig daily?
When using styling products on your human hair wig, it’s essential to choose products specifically designed for human hair wigs. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, sulfates, or alcohol, as these can dry out the hair and cause damage. Lightweight serums, leave-in conditioners, and heat protectants are generally safe for daily use.
Before applying any product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the wig to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions. Use a small amount of product and distribute it evenly throughout the hair, avoiding excessive buildup at the base of the wig. Always check the product label for instructions and ingredients before use.
How should I properly dry my human hair wig daily?
Avoid using a regular hair dryer on high heat to dry your human hair wig daily, as this can damage the hair fibers and cause frizz. Instead, gently blot the wig with a soft towel to remove excess water. You can then allow it to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head.
If you must use a hair dryer, use it on a low heat setting and a diffuser attachment. Hold the dryer at least six inches away from the wig and move it continuously to prevent overheating. Allow the wig to dry completely before styling or storing it.
What’s the best way to store my human hair wig daily?
The best way to store your human hair wig daily is on a wig stand or mannequin head. This will help maintain its shape and prevent it from tangling or becoming flattened. If you don’t have a wig stand, you can gently fold the wig and store it in a dust bag or the original packaging.
Avoid storing the wig in direct sunlight or in a humid environment, as this can damage the hair fibers and cause discoloration. Ensure the wig is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew or mold growth. Regularly rotate the wig to prevent pressure points and maintain its overall shape.
How often should I trim my human hair wig?
The frequency of trimming your human hair wig depends on the length, style, and how often you wear it. As a general rule, aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and maintain the wig’s shape. Regular trimming prevents further damage and keeps the wig looking fresh.
If you notice split ends, dryness, or excessive tangling, it’s a sign that your wig needs a trim. It is always recommended to have your wig trimmed by a professional stylist who specializes in wigs. They can assess the condition of the wig and trim it accordingly to maintain its style and health.
Can I sleep in my human hair wig?
Sleeping in your human hair wig daily is not recommended. It can cause tangling, matting, and damage to the hair fibers due to friction against your pillow. The constant pressure can also distort the wig’s shape and reduce its lifespan.
If you must sleep in your wig occasionally, take precautions to minimize damage. Braid the hair loosely or wrap it in a silk scarf or bonnet to protect it from friction. Use a silk pillowcase to further reduce tangling. Remove the wig as soon as possible in the morning and gently detangle it.