Wigs have gotten more popular over the last few years, along with hair units, systems, and extensions. Such things are worn for a variety of reasons. There’s nothing wrong with changing one’s appearance, whether to hide hair loss or to just try something new.
Wigs can restore confidence and self-esteem and make someone feel more like themselves. Because they play such a vital role, they must always be taken care of.
For more natural-looking locks, go for human-hair wigs. They are much more durable and are even shinier than synthetic wigs. Whatever you choose, know that wigs come with responsibilities to make them last longer. Take a look at the basic things you must avoid as a wig owner.
1. Don’t Use Excessive Heat
Heat can damage natural hair, so naturally, it can damage wigs badly too. They are extremely sensitive to heat and can really harm authentic or synthetic wigs. Some wigs may be labeled as heat-friendly, but they still need to be handled with care.
Keep a distance from high temperatures like campfire, wood stove, or grills. This includes not leaving the wig inside a hot car. The wig can melt, shrink, or get reshaped altogether.
It’s just not worth the risk, so always store the wig at the right temperature. It’s also important to use some sort of hair-protection spray beforehand to reduce damage to some extent, especially if you style your hair regularly.
- Don’t Overextend Its Life Span
The life spans of wigs and hair systems are usually affected by direct sunlight, smoke, dust, and also maintenance. High-quality synthetic wigs can last for around three to six months if they are handled and used with care. Human-hair wigs last longer, about nine to twelve months, but that still depends on the use and upkeep.
Don’t try to extend the wig’s life span for too long. The hair strands may be separating already, and soon enough, the wig won’t resemble natural hair anymore. Even if it is a high-quality wig, it will eventually reach its end.
Washing and conditioning may save its appearance for a while, but it will never last. For best results, just keep on taking care of the wig until its use has been maximized.
- Don’t Wear an Incorrect Size
Professionals who style wigs measure heads to ensure that the wigs will fit perfectly. If the wig is too small or too big, it will definitely show, and it won’t look or feel natural. It should be a snug fit with just the right amount of space to allow the scalp to breathe.
Tight wigs can damage the natural hair, cause hair breakage and loss, and irritate the scalp. Loose wigs move around and accidentally ride up, which scrunches the natural hair together. For a wig to be believable, it should be a proper fit.
Before buying a wig, make sure that all the necessary measurements have been taken. This will also ensure that the wearer is comfortable with wearing the piece for long periods.
- Don’t Wear It in Water
Some people plan to jump into a pool with their wig on, but it’s best to reconsider that. It can cause major damage that may or may not be irreversible. The hair strands can break and get tangled because of elements like chlorine, saltwater, and organisms.
Chlorine is bad for natural hair, so naturally, it also harms wigs. After getting wet, wigs can’t be styled as easily, and they must be brushed, washed, conditioned, and dried. As a general tip, have a designated wig especially for sports and pool use.
Wearing swim caps is a good idea, but it’s better to avoid the risk altogether. The wig cap can be stretched because of the water, and it will get bigger. This makes the wig too big to wear, and it can’t be worn again because of the incorrect size.
- Don’t Use Styling Products That Aren’t Safe for Wigs
Owning a wig requires a commitment to wig care, and this means researching which hair products work best. Heat-free styling methods like hair curlers or sponge rollers are very effective and won’t harm the hair. Using excessive heat is very harmful, so try low-heat flat irons and straighteners.
Do not use products for human hair on synthetic wigs and vice versa. Products designed for one can cause damage to the other because the composition of the wig is different from that of the hair. Dry shampoos and shine sprays can work for either to maintain good quality.
Always read and follow the directions on shampoo and conditioner bottles. Human-hair wigs can be washed with regular shampoo, but not synthetic wigs.
Do enough research to know the dos and don’ts of wig maintenance. Products that harm the natural hair can also harm wigs, so be wary. Wigs don’t repair as natural hair does, so any damage may be permanent.
Photo URLs:
https://unsplash.com/photos/dMwxvojKy9M
https://pixabay.com/photos/wigs-venice-carnival-birth-masked-4168599/