Wigs are the perfect accessory for changing up your look and concealing hair loss. However, there are times when you brush it or take it out of the box, you may find a few strands of hair tangled in the comb or lying on the floor. You may start to wonder if there’s something wrong with your wig.
Wig shedding is normal. Just like how our biological hair sheds, wig hair can also fall out. You should only be concerned if it is excessive shedding where handfuls of hair come out at a time. Let’s explore the reasons why your wig is shedding and how you can prevent it. With proper care and maintenance, you can prolong the life of your wig and reduce shedding.
Reasons Why Your Wig Is Shedding
1. Brand New. When you first take your wig out of the box, it’s normal for it to lose a few strands. You should only be concerned if actual clumps of hair are falling out.
2. Age. If you wear your wig a lot, they will lose hair over time. With proper care, synthetic wigs last three to six months; human hair wigs last one to two years. If your wig is past its “expiration date,” it may be time to replace it.
3. Brushing. Improper brushing can be another reason why your wig is shedding. Combing the hair too hard and brushing from the top down can pull on the knots, causing loose strands and tangling. Additionally, using a brush or comb not specified for wigs can also damage your wig.
4. Wrong Products. Using care products that aren’t meant for wigs or fiber type can also cause wig shedding.
5. Styling. You might be overpulling the hair when styling or putting your hair up in an updo. Overpulling can also increase wig shedding.
6. Conditioner. If your wig has a hand tied cap or sections with monofilament, putting conditioner on the roots can loosen the knots and accelerate the shedding.
7. Heat Damage. Setting the temperature too high on your heat tool could also be another reason why your wig is shedding. The high temperatures can cause the hair fibers to break and fall out.
How Do I Prevent My Wig From Shedding?
1. Use the right tools. Use proper styling tools, and use them gently on the wig.
2. Avoid Soaking. Never soak your wig when you wash it. Soaking can loosen the knots and accelerate hair loss.
3. Comb. When you brush and detangle your wig, always use a wide tooth comb or a brush specifically made for wigs. When detangling your wig, be sure to start at the ends and work your way up. Be sure to use detangling spray to help get rid of stubborn tangles.
4. Care. Wash and condition your wig, every 6-8 wears (or as needed). Always use products that are made for wigs and its fiber type. Never put conditioner on the roots of a monofilament or hand tied cap. Apply conditioner at the ends and slowly work your way up the hair.
5. Storage. Always make sure you are storing your wig on a mannequin stand, box, or bag when you’re not using it. It will keep your wig looking beautiful.
While it may be disturbing to find a few strands of hair from your wig, it’s important to remember that any wig - no matter how carefully you care for it - will eventually start to shed. By understanding the various reasons why your wig is shedding, you can take steps to mitigate its hair loss.
