Whether you’re new to wigs or a seasoned expert, knowing the art of wig installation and upkeep is vital for a natural appearance and long-lasting style. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about installing and caring for wigs—from lace fronts to synthetic and human hair wigs. Get ready to get that flawless, salon-worthy appearance with confidence!
Installing a wig might seem overwhelming, but with a few skills and the correct supplies, you can conquer it! Here are the necessities.
1. Prepare Your Natural Hair Braid or Wrap: If your hair is long, braid it into flat cornrows or wrap it tight to your scalp. This will give you a smooth foundation so the wig sits naturally without any bulges.
Moisturize: Protect your natural hair by using a leave-in conditioner or oil. Wearing a wig may occasionally dry out your hair, so it’s crucial to keep it moisturised.
Cap it Up: Use a wig cap to secure your hair in place. Wig caps not only produce a smooth surface but also protect your wig from oils on your head.
2. Choose the Right Adhesive
Glueless solutions: If you intend on removing your wig everyday, consider glueless solutions like elastic bands, wig grips, or combs to hold the wig in place.
Wig Glue: For extended usage, wig glue gives the most solid grip. Look for water-based adhesives for delicate skin.
Wig Tape: Tape gives a firm grip and is a wonderful alternative if you need to secure your wig all day but also want something that’s simple to remove.
3. Secure and Blend the Wig
Lace Cutting: If your wig contains lace, cut it gently along the hairline. Don’t cut too tight; allow a small amount of lace to mix in for a more natural effect.
Application: Apply a small coating of adhesive to your hairline if you’re using glue or tape. Wait until it’s tacky (about 30 seconds), then push the lace down and smooth it into place.
Blend with Makeup: Use a little foundation or powder to mix the lace with your skin tone, producing a smooth transition. This step is critical, particularly for lace fronts.
Caring for your wig properly is the key to keeping it looking fresh and fabulous. Here’s how to maintain different types of wigs:
1. Cleaning Your Wig Synthetic Wigs: Synthetic wigs require cleaning after around 8-10 wears. Use lukewarm water and a sulfate-free shampoo intended for synthetic fibres. Swish the wig lightly and rinse completely.
Human Hair Wigs: Human hair wigs need less frequent washing (about every 10-15 wears) and may be cleaned with light sulfate-free shampoo and warm water. Deep conditioning is needed to preserve softness.
2. Drying Techniques
Avoid Heat for Synthetic Wigs: Synthetic wigs should be air-dried on a wig stand to help retain their form. Avoid heat as it might harm synthetic fibers.
Use Heat Sparingly on Human Hair Wigs: Human hair wigs may be blow-dried on a low, cold setting, but air-drying is advised to reduce frizz and retain lifespan.
3. Detangle and Style Carefully
Use the Right Brush: A wide-tooth comb or a wig brush (boar-bristle for synthetic wigs) works best to minimise tugging and breakage.
Gentle Styling: For synthetic wigs, be aware of the sort of style you pick, since they frequently retain a single style. For human hair wigs, feel free to style as you would real hair, but remember to use a heat protectant if applying heat.
4. Storage Solutions
Wig Stands: When not wearing your wig, set it on a wig stand to retain form and air out the fibers.
Storage Bags: If you’re keeping your wig for a long time, put it in a satin or silk storage bag to avoid tangling and drying. Avoid plastic bags, which may contribute to odours and flattening.
Here are some expert tips to make your wig look natural and last longer:
1. Customize the Hairline
Pluck a few hairs from the hairline if it seems excessively thick. This gives a more natural, scalp-like look.
2. Trim or Shape Your Wig
Visit a hairdresser to cut or layer your wig to fit your facial shape. Even small modifications may boost the overall appearance.
3. Regular Conditioning
Use a wig-safe leave-in conditioner to maintain the hair smooth and moisturized, particularly for human hair wigs. Avoid products with thick oils or silicones, since they might weigh down the wig.
4. Rotate Your Wigs
If you wear wigs everyday, try switching between two or more wigs to extend their life. This lowers wear and tear on any one wig, keeping them all in excellent shape.
Learning how to install and maintain wigs effectively is a game-changer. A well-installed and cared-for wig looks more natural and can be worn for longer periods without losing its luster. With a little practice, you’ll find that wig installation and maintenance can be an enjoyable part of your beauty routine, allowing you to explore countless styles and colors.
Remember, every wig and wearer is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the methods that work best for you. Enjoy your journey with wigs—embrace the versatility, fun, and freedom they bring to your style!
