Importance of Wig Maintenance
For ordinary women who choose human hair wigs, proper maintenance is crucial. These wigs can be quite an investment, and taking good care of them not only keeps them looking natural and beautiful but also extends their lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Precautions for Daily Wear
Preparation Before Wearing
Before putting on the wig, it is necessary to manage your own hair properly. If you have long hair, comb it smoothly and braid it or coil it up to make it lie flat against your head. This prevents your hair from tangling with the wig and reduces friction. Also, carefully check the wig cap for any damages or tangles in the hair. If there are any issues, address them before wearing.
Correct Wearing Method
When putting on the wig, be gentle. Slowly place the wig on your head from front to back or vice versa, and then adjust its position according to your head shape to make it look natural. Some wigs come with adjustable straps or clips, make sure to fasten them properly to keep the wig in place, especially in windy conditions.
Care During Wearing
While wearing the wig, avoid constantly touching, scratching, or pulling it. The sweat and dirt on your hands can make the wig dirty and greasy. Also, keep the wig away from strong sunlight and high-temperature environments. For example, when shopping in the hot sun or cooking in a hot kitchen, it is advisable to remove the wig to prevent color fading and hair quality deterioration.
Correct Washing Steps
Washing Frequency
The frequency of washing your human hair wig depends on how often you wear it. If you wear it daily, washing it once every one to two weeks is appropriate. If you don’t wear it often, once a month is sufficient. Over-washing can damage the hair quality, while under-washing can make the wig dirty and uncomfortable to wear.
Choice of Cleaning Products
Use only specialized shampoos designed for human hair wigs. These shampoos are milder and will not harm the wig’s hair strands. Avoid shampoos containing alcohol or strong alkaline ingredients, as they can cause the wig to become dry and frizzy. In addition to shampoo, you will also need a wide-toothed comb and a clean towel.
Washing Procedure
- Gently remove the wig from your head and place it on a clean surface. Use a wide-toothed comb to start combing from the ends of the wig, gradually working your way up to detangle the hair. Do not start combing from the roots, as this may damage the wig.
- Pour an appropriate amount of wig shampoo into warm water and stir gently to create some foam. Slowly immerse the wig in the water, making sure the hair is completely covered, and let it soak for about 5 – 10 minutes.
- After soaking, gently rub the wig with your hands in the water, focusing on the roots and areas that tend to get oily, such as the forehead and crown.
- Once washed, drain the soapy water and rinse the wig thoroughly with clean water until the water runs clear. Residual shampoo can make the wig stiff and unnatural.
- Wrap the wig in a clean towel and gently press to absorb excess water. Do not twist or wring the wig forcefully to avoid deforming it.
Key Points of Wig Care
Using Conditioner
Applying conditioner after washing is essential. Just like with our own hair, conditioner can make the wig’s hair smoother and shinier. Evenly apply the conditioner to the hair strands of the wig, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse it off with clean water. However, be careful not to use too much conditioner, as it can make the wig look greasy.
Drying Techniques
Do not let the wig air dry naturally, as it takes too long and may cause bacteria growth and deformation. Use a low-temperature hair dryer to dry the wig. Place the wig on a stand and start drying from the roots, gradually moving downwards, while using your hand or a comb to shape the wig. Keep the hair dryer about 15 – 20 centimeters away from the wig and move it continuously to ensure even heat distribution.
Regular Deep Conditioning
In addition to regular washing and conditioning, the wig also needs periodic deep conditioning. You can use a wig-specific care oil or hair mask once a month or so. Evenly apply the care product to the wig, wrap it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing it off with clean water and drying it as usual. This helps to repair and nourish the hair quality of the wig.
Appropriate Storage Methods
Preparation Before Storage
Before storing the wig, make sure it is clean and dry. Any moisture or dirt left on the wig can cause mildew and deformation during storage. Follow the previously mentioned cleaning and conditioning steps to prepare the wig, and then comb it thoroughly with a wide-toothed comb.
Choosing the Right Storage Tools
It is best to use a specialized wig stand or a wig box for storage. A wig stand helps maintain the shape of the wig, preventing it from being crushed. A wig box protects the wig from dust, sunlight, and other elements. If you don’t have a wig box, you can use a clean plastic bag to store the wig, but make sure to poke a few small holes in the bag to allow air circulation.
Storage Location
Store the wig in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated place. Avoid damp basements or sunny windowsills. Also, do not store the wig with items that have strong odors or sharp edges to prevent the wig from absorbing odors or getting damaged.
Handling Special Situations
Severely Tangled Wig
If the wig is severely tangled, perhaps due to lack of maintenance or improper wearing, don’t panic. Spray some wig detangling spray on the tangled areas and then use a wide-toothed comb to gently comb through the knots starting from the ends. If the tangles are extremely stubborn, you can carefully cut off the severely tangled parts with scissors, but be cautious not to damage the overall shape of the wig.
Faded Wig
Fading of the wig may occur due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or improper washing. You can use a wig-specific color restoration agent to address this issue. Follow the instructions on the restoration agent, evenly apply it to the wig, let it sit for a while, and then rinse it off with clean water. Additionally, always avoid direct sunlight when wearing and storing the wig to minimize fading.
Wig with Odor
If the wig has an unpleasant odor, which may be caused by excessive sweating or improper storage, you can air it out in a well-ventilated area or spray it with a wig-specific freshening spray. If the odor is particularly strong, you may need to wash the wig again using shampoo, adding some white vinegar or lemon juice to the water can help eliminate the odor.
By following these care tips, ordinary women can keep their human hair wigs in excellent condition, allowing them to enjoy the beauty and versatility that wigs offer for various occasions with confidence.
