Name an accessory that can help you experiment with different hairstyles and embrace new looks?
Did you say “wigs”?
Because that’s absolutely correct!
Wigs offer an exhilarating experience, giving you the freedom to define beauty on your terms. Versatile and convenient, wigs have become increasingly popular in recent years. According to Straits research report (2023), the global wig market is projected to jump to USD 26.08 billion (approx.) by 2031.
While donning a wig can sure be exciting, it comes with its own troop of challenges that can detract wearers from its daily use.
Improper fit, for instance, can cause discomfort and may lead to an unnatural appearance, whereas lack of maintenance can shorten the lifespan of the wig. Many people also struggle with tangling and shedding, making their beloved accessory difficult to manage.
In this blog, we’ll explore some common wig problems (specific to human hair wigs) and how to deal with them like a pro. Below is a guide packed with expert solutions and actionable tips to help conquer your hair goals and unleash your inner diva.
First, We Talk About Matting—A Recurrent Menace!
Matting refers to a condition where the strands of your wig become tightly tangled, and clumped together—forming dense knotted sections that are difficult to separate.
In extreme cases, matting—borrowing the words of Rose from Titanic—may take “84 years” to get your wig back into good shape.
Why Does Matting Happen?
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Constant Friction Due to Movement: Matting often occurs around the neck’s nape region or in areas where the wigs come in frequent contact with clothing (such as collars or scarves), skin, or accessories.
- Improper Storage: If you fold or crumple your wig while storing, you’re doing it grave injustice as this causes knots.
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Common Tip Place your wig on a wig stand or use a silk or satin bag for storage. This will keep the tangling at bay. |
Solutions To Avoiding Wig Tangling And Matting
i) Detangle Your Wig
Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to smoothen your wig gently. Do it everyday you wear. Start at the ends first, and then work your way upwards to prevent breakage.
ii) Cut Friction Out Of The Way
High-collared or rough-textured clothing may rub against your wig. Choose clothes made of softer fibers or those devoid of elaborate neck designs.
Several detangling sprays are available on the market that reduce friction. They make coming wigs a breeze and also save time.
iv) Give Your Wig A Regular Bath
By that we mean, wash your wig regularly (but not daily). Use wig-friendly shampoos to keep it clean and tangle-free.
Second, Shedding—Nothing Short of a Nightmare!
Human hair wigs can be hand-tied or machine-made. When it comes to which is better—hand-tied wigs take the win every time. Its labour-intensive production process, greater comfortability and ultra-natural feel mark them unbeatable.
Still, shedding can occur in both these types. Human tied wigs shed at a slower rate, though.
What Causes Shedding?
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Excessive or Aggressive Brushing: Using brute force on your wig, especially when it’s wet, can strain its knots and dislodge the hair strands. This weakens the overall structure of the wig.
- Washing the Wig Incorrectly: Rough washing techniques or using abrasive shampoos—can break the strings or adhesive-led bonds that hold the hair strands to the wig cap.
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Expert Opinion: Professional hair stylists recommend using sulphate-free shampoos. They also ask their clients to tenderly massage instead of scrubbing the wig. This saves the strands from weakening and breaking. In the case of hair tied wigs, they especially suggest applying a knot-sealing spray after each wash to strengthen the knots. |
How To Stop Wig Shedding?
i) Brush Your Wig Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush. Avoid combing when the wig is wet at all costs.
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Common Tip: You should always hold the wig by the base when handling. This refrains you from pulling on the individual hair strands. |
ii) Say No To Overstyling With Heat Tools: Excessive use of heat tools can loosen wefts and knots and damage the hair strands. To protect your wig, we suggest switching to low heat settings or minimizing the frequency of heat styling as much as possible.
Third, Wig Slippage—Can Sometimes Be A Little Embarrassing!
Wig slip-downs may negatively impact an individual’s confidence and self-esteem. They can happen anywhere and anytime—in the middle of an important meeting in a boardroom, in class, or on the road.
Why Does Wig Slippage Happen?
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Wig's Ill-fitting Nature: A wig that’s too loose or doesn’t have adjustable straps can shift out of place with even the most basic and minimal movements.
- Smooth Scalp Surfaces: Individuals experiencing hair loss tend to have smoother scalps. With not much friction to intervene, wigs can slip off unexpectedly.
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Build-up Of Sweat And Oil: They’re a lethal duo, particularly in warm environments. Natural scalp oils or sweat can cause the wig to slide off your head, and this may rile you up a bit.
How To Keep Your Wig Securely In Place?
I) Choose The Right Size
The best way is to measure your head circumference and select a wig that matches your size.
Ii) Get Suitable Wig-grips
Wig-grips are adjustable headbands made of velvet, silicone or other materials and worn underneath wigs to keep them secure. They also add comfort to the overall wig wearing experience.
Iii) Invest In An “external” Wig Cap
Now, wigs already have an inherent wig cap attached to them. But you can always apply an external wig cap for enhanced security and comfort. These are usually made of nylon and mesh.
If you have thicker or longer hair, wearing an external wig cap can flatten and tuck in all your hair neatly, eliminating any unevenness or bumps under the wig.
Wig caps are also recommended if you’re looking to wear a wig for extended periods.
Iv) Snap Up Some Extra “external” Straps
Again, most wigs already have built-in adjustable straps for solid fitting. These are generally located inside the wig cap and can be tightened or loosened as per convenience.
But there can arise situations where you may need additional straps. For example, when you have adjusted your built-in strap to the tightest setting and it still fails to pin the wig in place. Or, when you plan to wear your wig during physical activities such as exercising or dancing, extra straps can be very useful.
For unique head shapes or sizes or when the internal straps are stretched or damaged—in such cases, external straps can provide a customized fit and help in extending wig lifespan.
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Common Tip: |
Fourth—with Prolonged Use, Wigs May Start Losing Colour
Wigs become an integral part of your day-to-day life, and seeing your favorite wig lose colour can be a sore sight.
Factors That Lead To Decolorizing Of Wigs
Exposure To The Sun's Uv Rays: When you go out in the sun, you protect your face, neck, and limbs with sunscreens and other cosmetic gears. What about your wigs? UV rays from sunlight can decolourise both dyed and undyed human hair wigs. Albeit, dyed wigs are at a greater risk of fading or losing colours.
Overwashing Wigs: Washing wigs more than necessary can strip them off their colour and sheen.
Being Negligent About Wig Care: Going for harsh formulations that are not designed for wigs can eventually disrupt their hair’s pigment structure.
How Can You Save Your Wigs?
I) Uv Protectants Can Be Your Wig’s Armour
Before heading outdoors, spray a UV protectant on your wig. A light mist—just a few sprays evenly distributed along its length will be sufficient.
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Expert Opinion:
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Ii) Look For Colour-safe Products.
If you’ve coloured/dyed wigs, choose shampoos and conditioners that are exclusively made for them. Read the packaging carefully before buying.
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Common Tip: Colour-depositing conditioners work like magic for dyed wigs and help them regain vibrance. You purchase it online or from a retail cosmetic shop nearby, Also, wash your wig only when it is required. This will help preserve its colour. |
Iv) Hide Your Wig Away From The Touch Of Sunlight.
That came out a little poetic, didn't it? But on a serious note, store your wigs in a dark, cool place to avoid sun exposure when not in use. Cue—a cabinet!
5) Lastly, Wigs Can Give You Itching & Scalp Irritation
Human hair wigs don’t use artificial materials in their manufacturing process. So, they aren’t as irritating as synthetic wigs.
Still, There Can Be A Few Untoward Situations
- No Space For Ventilation: Wigs, having thick or non-breathable caps, trap heat and sweat under them. What’s more, it can also produce an unpleasant odour in some cases.
- Product Build-up: Residue left from styling products can accumulate on the scalp, leading to itching. Add to that—infrequent cleaning or overlooking care, and you’ve a recipe for some scalp chagrin.
How To Protect Your Scalp?
I) Opt For Wig Caps That Let Your Scalp Breathe
Choose wigs with lace or mesh caps as they allow better airflow to the scalp.
Ii) For Sensitive Scalps, Go For Gentle Fabrics
Bamboo or silk wig caps are known to lessen irritation.
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Common Tip: Moisturising scalps can also be a soothing trick. Apply a mild, non-greasy moisturizer to eliminate dryness and itching. |
Iii) Limit Your Wig Wear Time
Experts advise to take breaks from wearing wigs. Let your scalp out in the air to breathe and recover.
Takeaway
Synthetic wigs made of acrylic fibers or polyester are more susceptible to the common wig problems we discussed above. Why so? Factors such as use of substandard materials, insecure wefts, and lack of natural pigments (as found in human hair).
We, at Gemeria Hair, understand the mayhem synthetic wigs create. That’s why we provide our customers with 100% authentic human hair wigs that are easy to wear and last longer. Our broad collection of wigs and hair accessories offer diverse styling options and enhancers for support. Looking for a place to buy wigs for women online, why not give us a try.
As we wrap up, we want to emphasize that human hair wigs need regular maintenance, proper storage, and good TLC, just as much as you would do for the natural hair on your head.
Want more tips for comfortable wig wear, stay tuned!
