African braiding salon around me, How To Care For Your Wig & Weaves
You have made the decision to invest in a high-quality wig or a collection of weaves, yet you may be uncertain about the appropriate methods for their care. What are the best practices to ensure their longevity? Is the maintenance of synthetic hair the same as that of human hair? The brief answer is that the specific type of weave dictates the appropriate techniques for wearing, washing, styling, and storing it.
It is important to emphasize that your natural hair does not require fixing or concealment with a wig. However, for those occasions when you desire a touch of glamour, we have outlined the essential dos and don’ts for maintaining your wig or weaves. Fortunately, we have assembled a comprehensive guide to assist you in caring for your wig and weaves, ensuring they remain in excellent condition for an extended period.
How Frequently Should I Clean My Wig or Weave?
The frequency of washing your wig or weave largely depends on how often you wear it. A general guideline is to wash it every two weeks; however, if you frequently wear it outdoors, it may accumulate dirt more quickly. Ultimately, it is essential that your wig maintains a fresh scent and a silky texture.
What Equipment Is Necessary for Cleaning My Wig or Weave?
Begin with a brush that can effectively and gently detangle the hair. The Tangle Teezer Fine and Fragile Brush is an excellent choice for this purpose. Its soft-flex teeth are specifically designed to glide through the hair, eliminating tangles and knots without causing excessive pulling or damage. Additionally, you will require a wig-friendly shampoo and conditioner suitable for your specific type of weave, as well as a resealable bag for safe storage of your hair.
Clean Your Wig or Weave Using Shampoo and Conditioner
It may seem unusual, but the most effective method for maintaining your wig is to wash it. Indeed, wigs can accumulate dirt and odors similar to any other garment. When caring for real human hair wigs, simply cleanse them with a gentle shampoo and conditioner, just as you would your own hair. For synthetic wigs, it is essential to utilize a specialized wig shampoo and conditioner designed for gentle cleaning.
There are two primary reasons to wash your wig: firstly, it eliminates dirt and residual styling products. Secondly, washing enhances the softness and manageability of the wig, making styling easier. Rest assured, washing your wigs or weaves is safe; use cold water and mild shampoos. Remember to gently blot the wig dry with a towel, avoiding twisting or wringing.
Avoid Hot Water
When washing your wig or weave, it is crucial to refrain from using hot water, as it can damage the hair. Instead, opt for cold water, which is equally effective for cleaning. Although hot water may seem appealing for quicker cleaning, it can harm the hair follicles, resulting in a loss of volume and shine.
Tangle Teezer Recommendation: For synthetic wigs, cold water is perfectly suitable. However, for human hair wigs, warm water is recommended.
Invert the Wig Before Washing
Even when using cold water, the wig will still become warm during the washing process. Therefore, it is advisable to turn your wig inside out prior to washing to protect the interior from dirt and moisture. This practice can significantly extend the lifespan of your wig.
Allow It to Air Dry
After rinsing out the shampoo, turn your wig inside out once more. Allow it to air dry on a shower cap or towel. While you may consider using a blow dryer to expedite the drying process, ensure that the heat setting is low to prevent damage. Additionally, keep the blow dryer at a safe distance from the wig to avoid any potential harm.
Store in the Original Resealable Bag
Certain sellers of wigs and weaves provide a resealable bag for storage. It is advisable to keep your wig or collection of weaves in this bag. For synthetic options, an anti-static bag may also be utilized. This method will help maintain cleanliness, protect against germs and dust, and allow the hair to breathe. It is crucial to avoid storing your wig or weave in direct sunlight, as this can damage the fibers and lead to fading. Additionally, refrain from stacking your wigs, as this may result in creases and other forms of damage. For optimal maintenance, consider investing in a wig stand.
Avoid Placing Your Wig/Weave in the Dryer
Some sellers may suggest that it is acceptable to place your wig in the washing machine or dryer. We strongly advise against this practice. Such actions can severely damage the hair, resulting in a frizzy and brittle appearance. Furthermore, the heat generated by the dryer can melt or burn the hair fibers, whether they are from human hair wigs or synthetic ones. The outcome can be burnt hair and a distorted wig cap.
There you have it, our six tips for washing and caring for your wig and weave. Essentially, the better you care for your wig or weave = the longer it will last. If you take anything away from our article, let it be this: make sure to use cool water, a wig-friendly shampoo and conditioner, and never throw the hair in the dryer. If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to make your hair last longer. If you’re curious to find out how to style your wig, read our article on how to find the best wig for you.
