Wigs and You: Taking Care of Your New Hairpiece

Wigs need to be well taken care of in order for them to retain their shape and color and to enable them to last as long as possible. Knowing what to do and how to do it in terms of maintenance is very important.

Before placing a wig on the head it should be given a small shake. Make sure you are well aware of which is the front and the back before it is placed upon your head. It should begin at the hairline once it is on the head as the front of it should lie where it meets the front hairline. Fit it in the back by the nape of the neck after the front has been positioned properly. Be aware that it should fit securely on the head but it should not be tight. The Velcro tabs inside of it can be adjusted if necessary. A comfortable fit is essential for the wearer.

Wigs need to be washed with a special shampoo designed expressly for them. Washing and rinsing in cold water is best. Conditioning spray can be used if you wish. The artificial hair can be blotted or dabbed with a towel but should not be squeezed. Air dry the hair but keep a hair dryer away from it. You can then use your fingers to style it the way that you want it to be. It should only be brushed when it has thoroughly dried.

If you are wondering how often the synthetic hair requires washing the answer is that it depends upon the humidity and the quality of the air. The environment and temperatures you reside in make a difference to the washing schedule. As a general rule, it should be washed after it has been worn an average of eight to 12 times but this may vary from one person to another.

When it comes to styling wigs special brushes or combs can be used or you can simply finger style them just as you would with real hair. Do not use brushes or combs that are meant for real hair as these can pull, stretch and damage the synthetic hair.

If you like you can purchase a liquid mousse that is meant for synthetic hair wearers. If you want to turn straight hair into a wavy or curly style then apply the mousse and then scrunch it with your hands and from there make it as wavy or as curly as you want it to be.

Wigs can be cut although they do come pre-styled and you should choose a general style that you are happy with. If you want to make the artificial hair as much your own as possible then take it to a professional hair stylist to have it customized to your liking. Even a slight change can make all of the difference in the world. You should be wearing it when you get it trimmed or cut just as you would for a regular cut on real hair.

You need to buy special products for this personal hair item as the products designed for natural hair are not good for it. You must avoid using any heat source on it such as hot rollers, a curling iron and a blow dryer. You are not able to color, bleach or highlight the synthetic hair.