Real hair wigs offer natural beauty, versatility, and a luxurious look, but just like your natural hair, they require proper care to maintain their freshness and longevity. With the right techniques, you can revitalize your real hair wigs, restoring its shine and softness while ensuring it lasts for months or even years. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to care for and refresh your real hair wig for a long-lasting, fresh style.
1. Gently Wash Your Wig
Washing your real hair wig is the first step in revitalizing its appearance. Depending on how often you wear it, wash the wig every 10 to 15 wears. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that is formulated for human hair to avoid stripping the wig’s natural oils. Avoid regular shampoo as it can damage the fibers. Fill a basin with lukewarm water, then add a small amount of shampoo. Gently immerse the wig and avoid vigorous scrubbing. Gently massage the wig’s fibers and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner to restore softness and hydration.
2. Deep Condition for Extra Moisture
Deep conditioning is a crucial step in restoring the health of your real hair wig. After washing, apply a rich, moisturizing conditioner or a deep conditioning mask to the wig. Allow the conditioner to sit for 10-15 minutes to deeply hydrate the strands. This will help restore moisture, smooth the cuticle, and leave the wig looking soft and shiny. For an added boost, you can also use a leave-in conditioner or an oil treatment to lock in moisture and maintain a silky texture.
3. Dry Your Wig Properly
To preserve the integrity of your wig’s fibers, always air dry your real hair wig after washing. Gently pat the wig with a towel to remove excess moisture, then place it on a wig stand or mannequin head to dry. Avoid using a blow dryer, as heat can cause damage, even on real hair. Allowing the wig to air dry ensures that the fibers retain their natural volume and texture. If the wig is particularly wet, you can gently comb through it with a wide-tooth comb to prevent tangling while it dries.
4. Restore Shine with a Light Leave-In Conditioner
After your wig is dry, apply a light leave-in conditioner or a serum to restore shine and smoothness. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, where hair tends to become dry and frizzy. Avoid applying too much product at the roots to prevent the wig from looking greasy. A lightweight serum or hair oil can also help prevent static and add a natural luster to your wig, making it look freshly styled.
5. Detangle Carefully
To keep your real hair wig looking fresh, detangle it regularly. Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush designed for human hair. Start at the ends of the wig and gently work your way up to the roots to avoid pulling or damaging the fibers. If you encounter any knots or tangles, spray a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner to help loosen them. Be patient, as tugging too hard can cause hair breakage. Always detangle your wig when it’s dry, as wet hair is more fragile.
6. Trim the Ends for a Fresh Look
Real hair wigs, like natural hair, can develop split ends over time, especially with regular use. To keep your wig looking fresh, schedule a trim every few months. A professional wig stylist can remove any split ends and maintain the wig’s shape and volume. If you prefer to trim the wig yourself, use sharp scissors and trim conservatively, cutting small amounts at a time. A trim can help the wig look healthier and more vibrant, maintaining its original length and style.
7. Avoid Overuse of Heat Styling Tools
Although real hair wigs can handle heat styling better than synthetic wigs, excessive use of heat can still lead to damage. Limit the use of flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers to prevent dryness or breakage. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield the wig from heat damage. If possible, style your wig using lower heat settings, or consider styling it while wet to reduce the need for direct heat.
8. Store Your Wig Correctly
Proper storage is essential to keeping your real hair wig looking fresh. After wearing it, gently remove the wig and place it on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape. If you need to store the wig for an extended period, make sure it’s clean and dry before placing it in a breathable bag or box. Avoid storing your wig in a tight container, as this can cause the fibers to become misshapen or tangled. Always store your wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
9. Use a Wig Cap to Protect Your Wig
When not in use, wearing a wig cap can help protect your real hair wig from dust, oils, and other environmental factors that can cause wear and tear. A wig cap also helps to keep the wig securely in place while reducing friction between the wig and your scalp. If you wear the wig frequently, using a wig cap will help maintain its freshness and protect both the wig and your natural hair underneath.
10. Regularly Reevaluate Your Wig’s Condition
Over time, your real hair wig may experience wear and tear, especially if it’s worn frequently. Regularly inspect your wig for any signs of damage, such as thinning, fraying, or discoloration. If you notice any issues, it’s important to address them promptly. You can either repair the wig yourself or take it to a professional for restoration. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your wig and ensure that it continues to look vibrant and healthy.
Conclusion
Revitalizing your real hair wig is all about maintaining its natural beauty and health with simple, consistent care. By washing, conditioning, detangling, and trimming regularly, you can keep your wig looking fresh, shiny, and full of life. Proper storage and minimal heat styling will also prolong the wig’s longevity, allowing you to enjoy your real hair wig for months to come. With these revitalization tips, you can keep your wig in top condition and continue to flaunt your gorgeous, natural-looking hair with confidence.