At The Salon at 10 Newbury, we understand that a human hair wig is more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a key part of your everyday look and confidence. Whether you’re wearing a wig due to hair loss, for medical reasons like chemotherapy, or simply for a style change, proper care is essential to maintain its quality and longevity. In this blog, we’ll provide you with essential tips for keeping your custom wig looking fresh, stylish, and natural for as long as possible.
Understand the Type of Wig You Have
Before you begin caring for your wig, it’s important to understand what type of wig you have. At The Salon at 10 Newbury, we specialize in 100% European human hair wigs, which require different care than synthetic wigs. Human hair wigs offer a natural look and feel but need more maintenance to keep them looking their best. Knowing the specific care requirements of your wig will help you keep it in top condition.
Tips for Long-Lasting Wear
Washing Your Human Hair Wig
Washing your wig regularly is necessary to keep it clean and free from build-up, but over-washing can lead to damage. Generally, we recommend washing your wig every 10-14 days, depending on how often you wear it. Here’s how to wash your custom wig properly:
- Use the Right Shampoo: Always use a gentle, sulfate-free salon quality shampoo or a shampoo designed specifically for wigs or hairpieces. These shampoos help to maintain the hair’s natural texture without stripping away essential moisture.
- Wash in Lukewarm Water: Never use hot water to wash your wig, as it can damage the hair. Instead, use lukewarm water to gently cleanse the wig.
- Avoid Scrubbing: Gently lather the shampoo and avoid scrubbing or twisting the wig. Instead, let the shampoo run through the hair and rinse gently to remove any dirt or product build-up.
- Condition the Wig: After shampooing, apply a salon quality conditioner or a conditioner formulated for wigs to keep the hair soft and manageable. This is especially important for human hair wigs, as it helps maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
Drying Your Human Hair Wig
Proper drying is key to maintaining the shape and texture of your wig. Never wring or twist the wig to remove excess water, as this can cause damage. Here’s how to dry your wig correctly:
- Towel Dry First: Gently blot the wig with a clean towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause the hair to frizz.
- Air Drying: Place your wig on a mannequin head to air dry. This allows the wig to maintain its natural shape and texture. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the hair color to fade.
- Avoid Heat Styling: If you have a human hair wig, you can use heat styling tools, but avoid using them frequently. Overuse of heat can cause damage and reduce the wig’s lifespan. If you are going to heat style, make sure to use a heat protectant. For synthetic wigs, avoid heat styling altogether.
Combing and Detangling Your Human Hair Wig
Wigs can get tangled over time, especially if they are worn daily or exposed to wind and weather. Gently combing your wig is essential to keep it smooth and prevent damage.
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Always use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to gently detangle your wig. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots to avoid putting too much stress on the hair.
- Avoid Tugging: If your wig is particularly tangled, try applying a leave-in conditioner or wig detangler to help smooth it out. Never tug or pull on the hair, as this can cause shedding and damage.
Storing Your Human Hair Wig
Proper storage is crucial when you’re not wearing your wig. If you toss your wig on a shelf or leave it out of its proper container, it can lose its shape or become damaged.
- Use a Wig Stand or Mannequin Head: Store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to help maintain its shape. This also prevents the wig from getting crushed or tangled.
- Avoid Direct Heat and Sunlight: When storing your wig, keep it out of direct heat or sunlight. Both can cause the hair to dry out or fade, especially if it’s made from human hair.
- Keep It in a Wig Box or Bag: If you’re not wearing your wig for an extended period, store it in a breathable wig box or bag to keep it safe from dust and dirt.
Styling Your Human Hair Wig
When it comes to styling, one of the best things about a custom human hair wig is that it can be treated just like your natural hair. You can cut, color, and style your wig to suit your preferences. However, always keep in mind that over-styling or frequent heat exposure can cause wear and tear.
- Heat Styling: Use a heat protectant spray before using any heat styling tools on your wig. Set the tools to a low or medium setting to prevent damaging the fibers.
Protecting Your Wig from the Elements
When wearing your wig outside, there are a few factors to keep in mind to keep it looking its best.
- Rain Protection: If you’re caught in the rain, try to avoid getting your wig wet. Keep an umbrella or hat on hand to protect your wig from moisture. If it does get wet, do not worry as it will not get frizzy from the weather or humidity.
- Wind Protection: Wind can cause your wig to shift or become tangled. Use wig grips or an adjustable wig band to ensure your wig stays securely in place.
Start a Conversation
Caring for your custom wig doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips and trusting the experts at The Salon at 10 Newbury, you can keep your wig looking natural, fresh, and beautiful for as long as possible. With proper care, your wig will continue to complement your style and boost your confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you find the perfect human hair wig that fits your needs and lifestyle.
