Style: Eve by Envy
Wigs are slowly becoming the signature look for many people. If you’re wearing wigs frequently, you might wonder if they affect your hair. These are valid concerns. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed answer on “are wigs bad for your hair?” We’ll also give tips on how to protect your hair.
Do Wigs Prevent Hair Growth?
There are not many life cases when you can have your cake and eat it too, but it's possible when it comes to wearing wigs. You can enjoy wearing your magnificent wig and still maintain your healthy hair. However, if mishandled, wigs can affect your hair growth underneath.
These seven easy steps will help promote healthy hair while wearing your wig:
1. Wash Your Hair Frequently
Human Hair Must-Haves by BeautiMark.
It’s easy to forego your hair care routine now that you’re showing off your beautiful wig. However, if you go for many days without washing or moisturizing your hair, it could become dry and brittle. As a result, this may cause hair breakage and hair thinning.
No Sweat Liner by Headline It.
Additionally, wearing a wig, especially in the summer months, can cause your scalp to sweat, affecting hair growth. Properly washing your hair ensures that the extra heat doesn’t damage it.
If your hair is naturally dry, adding moisture as part of your hair care routine may cause dampness under your wig, so it’s best to use a light moisturizing spray instead of a heavy or greasy product. If you have naturally oily hair, it’s best not to add more moisture to your hair.
Lastly, before you put your wig on, ensure your natural hair is dry to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria, which can hinder your hair growth.
2. Create Tension on Your Scalp
Along with washing and moisturizing your hair, you need to ensure it’s in the best condition while wearing your wig. It may help if you braid your hair under your wig.
If these braids are too tight, they can cause stress and tension to your scalp. The tight braids can also pull your hairline and lead to hair breakage and make your wig-wearing experience uncomfortable. It’s best to make the braids loose which can help reduce the friction between your wig and natural hair.
3. Choose the Correct Wig Size
Contrary to what many wig newbies believe, wigs come in different sizes. They're classified as large, average, and petite. A professional will be able to measure your head before making a purchase.
How to Measure Your Head for Wigs
If you wear a wig that’s too small and too tight, it will be very uncomfortable and cause hair breakage or loss in the perimeter around the head, making it harder for you to enjoy the added confidence that comes with wearing your magical wig. Find out your correct wig size here.
4. Pick the Right Cap Construction
Your choice of wig cap construction won’t directly cause hair breakage or hair loss, but it is essential to choose one that fits well and works with your hair type.
For example, if you get too hot underneath your wig and scratch your scalp, it could irritate. In this case, it’s best to go for capless wigs, which will allow your hair to breathe. The latter is lightweight and enhances airflow to your scalp.
Shop Capless Wigs
On the other hand, traditional wigs make your head very hot because they don’t have wefts at the backs and sides.
5. Don’t Forget Your Wig Cap
We recommend wearing a wig cap. Wig caps are a great way to add extra protection between your hair and wig. It also makes setting your wig easier by creating a flat surface for your wig to appear more natural.
Mesh Wig Liner/Cap by BeautiMark
Additionally, the cap prevents friction between your hair and the wig, making your experience more comfortable.
6. Ease Up on the Adhesives
Try to avoid styles that require adhesives as much as you can. When misused, adhesives can cause hair breakage and hair loss around your hairline.
For days you want to use adhesive, try not to position your wig on top of your hairline or directly to it. Instead, place the wig in front of your hairline to protect your hairline.
Finally, when it’s time to remove the wig, do not pull it under any circumstance; use the recommended remover for that specific adhesive. Pulling your wig can damage your hair follicles near your edges, causing baldness.
Lace Let Go Adhesive Remover by Jon Renau
7. Let Your Hair Rest
We know you’re obsessed with your wig, and after two weeks of wearing it, it feels like another part of you. And sure, the compliments are great too but try to give your wig wearing a break now and then.
Your hair needs a break from all the adhesives and tapes, and your scalp will get a chance to breathe. It’s also advisable to remove the wig before bed – your wig can pull unnaturally when you’re asleep and restrict proper blood circulation in your scalp.
Finally
Wearing wigs comes with many benefits. For example, it gives your hair a break to recover from any dyes or treatments while giving you a new look.
Plus, your hair and hairline will only benefit if you wear your wig correctly. Choosing the correct wig size and the proper wig cap construction is essential. Any mistake will pull your hairline, and dampness or sweating of your scalp can lead to hair breakage or loss.
Lastly, don’t neglect your hair simply because you’re wearing a wig. Continue washing it regularly and moisturizing it with the right products based on your hair type.
We’d love to hear about some of your precautions when wearing a wig to protect your hair. Please share with us in the comment section.
