Wigs are a regular staple for many in the natural hair community and it is not hard to see why they are so loved. With a good quality wig, you can experiment with different hairstyles while keeping your natural curls protected. However, it is very common for people to abandon their hair care while wearing wigs and this is a big no-no if you want healthy hair.
Your hair still needs to be properly taken care of under your wigs to avoid damage. In this article, we'll be discussing the best hair care routine for keeping your curls and curls happy while rocking your wigs.
Choose The Right Wig For Your Hair
When choosing a wig, you have a wide range of options ranging from lace frontals, closures, headband wigs, sew-ins and so much more. If you want to maintain the health of your curls, it is important to choose a wig that will not cause any damage to your strands. Pay attention to your hair and your edges, and make sure to go with something that suits the current state of your hair.
Some wigs like lace frontals often require glues that can put excess friction on the hairline. If you have bald edges or thin hair around your hairline, then you know frontal wigs are not a great option for you. Instead, opt for glueless wigs or headband wigs. Additionally, if you know you cannot go too long without getting buildup or itching, then go for a wig that is easy to remove and put on. The key here is to choose something that will keep your hair healthy and also make you comfortable.
Moisturise Your Natural Hair
One of the biggest mistakes people make when wearing a wig is neglecting their natural hair completely. You think the wig is acting as a protective style to cover your hair but it is also a major barrier keeping your strands from getting proper moisture. Without adequate moisture, your hair will get dry and develop breakage. So it is very essential to make sure your hair is hydrated with our Everyday Curl Refresh. You can spray it before wearing your wig 1-2 times a week.
However, if your wig is a sew-in that cannot be easily removed, then simply lift the added hair from the ends to give you access to your hair. then spray the Curl Refresh spray into the cornrows at the base of your sew-in and use a blow dryer to properly dry it.
Don’t Go Too Long In-Between Wash Days
It is very common to assume that your hair does not need to be washed as often since it is tucked away under a wig. However, this is completely wrong. When you wear a wig, your hair can easily accumulate a lot of sweat, oil, and dirt since it is often covered. So, cleansing your hair and scalp consistently is very important. Try to remove your wig and wash your hair with our Hydration Shampoo at least 1-2 times a month Ito remove all the buildup and give your scalp a healthy reset.
Put Your Hair In A Protective Style
Putting your hair in a protective style before wearing your wig is important for maintaining the health of your strands. Wigs can place a lot of friction on your hair, so it is best to keep most of your hair tucked away while wearing them to prevent knots, tangles and breakage. You can put your hair in flat twists, plaits or cornrows. However, cornrows are the best style to wear under a wig if you want a fully flat base to create a natural look. While making your cornrows, be sure to moisturise the hair first with our Manuka Honey Leave-in Conditioner and seal in the moisture with our Hair & Scalp Oil.
Always Protect Your Hair At Night
To prevent frizz and breakage, it is crucial to take your wig off before going to bed. This will prevent any tugging on your strands and ensure you sleep more comfortably. After removing your wig, be sure to wear a satin bonnet to further protect the hair. You can use a silk scarf if you do not have a bonnet.
Do Not Wear A Wig On Damp Hair
Before wearing your wig, it is very important to make sure your hair is thoroughly dry. This is extremely important as covering your hair with a wig when it is damp can create room for bacteria and germs to thrive. This can result in itchiness, buildup, and scalp issues like dandruff. You can use a blow dryer to completely dry your hair before wearing your wig to ensure there is no sign of dampness.
Be Gentle When Removing Your Wig
Removing your wig might seem like a basic thing to do but it is actually the step that causes a lot of damage to most people's natural hair. Many people make the mistake of simply pulling off their wig without any care for their edges and when you do this, you are likely ripping off pieces of delicate hair strands around your hairline. To safely remove your wig, you need to be as gentle as possible. Apply a little bit of our Scalp & Hair Oil around your hairline if your wig was installed with glue to help loosen up the adhesive. Then gently tug on the edges of the wig until it fully comes off.
Oil Your Scalp
Nourishing your scalp with an oil like our Strengthening Oil is essential for preventing dryness and maintaining a healthy scalp environment while you wear your wigs. After applying the oil, massage your scalp for about five minutes to encourage blood flow since the scalp is not getting proper oxygen under your wigs.
Wear A Wig Cap
When you continuously install and remove a wig, it can cause a lot of friction on your hair, especially around your edges and nap. This is why it is important to wear a wig cap first before wearing your wig. The wig cap will act as a protective barrier and minimise friction. Wig caps can easily feel uncomfortable if they do not fit your head properly so be sure to get something that is not too tight.
Give Your Hair Room To Breathe
It is important to take breaks in between weeks of wearing your wig to give your hair and scalp room to breathe. This will allow your strands to get proper nourishment before you cover them up with a wig again.
Deep Condition As Often As You Can
With your hair tucked under a wig, it can easily lose moisture and elasticity. Over time, this can result in breakage, split ends and generally weaker hair. This is why it is crucial to incorporate a deep conditioner like our Manuka Honey Deep Conditioning Hair Mask into your routine. Make sure to use it at least twice a month to strengthen your hair and infuse it with moisture and nourishment.
Proper hair care is very important for natural hair if you want to prevent breakage, and dryness, and maintain a healthy scalp. So even while wearing your wigs, it is important to maintain a consistent routine of hydration, protection, and care to ensure your hair flourishes and remains healthy.