How To Get The Most Long-term Wear Out Of Your Wig

Let's be honest, wigs are expensive. And the higher the quality, the heftier the price. So it makes sense you are going to want to get the most longevity out of your purchase. Just remember, the longevity will depend on factors such as how often the wig is worn, if you live in a humid climate, if you exercise or do strenuous activities, or if you often use products or heating tools. We have created a list of tips to help you get the most out of your wig below. Take a look!

Tips on how to get the most long-term wear out of your wig

1. Don't wash your wig too often 

Generally speaking, it's best to wash your wig every 8 to 10 wears. If your wig starts to feel crunchy or stiff or you notice a build-up of oils along the hairline or lace front, this is a good indication it's time to get out the shampoo and give the wig a gentle wash. 

2. Invest in good quality adhesives and solvents 

We suggest investing in a good quality tape or glue adhesive and solvent if you want to get the most longevity out of your wig. Walker Tape has a great range of adhesives that can best suit your hair piece. It also has high quality solvents so you don't damage the hair upon removal. Check out the full range here.

Note: If you're not sure which adhesive is best for you, we recommend checking out Tape vs Glue: Which is the better wig adhesive.

3. Be careful with hot tools

Just like when it comes to our natural hair, styling tools set to a high heat can cause damage to our hair's protective layer, leading to breakage. It is recommended to limit the use of heating tools and only style hair at the correct temperature, which is usually on average 170°C degrees. It is also recommended to limit the wigs time in direct sunlight as this can also cause breakage.

Note: Some synthetic wigs are not designed to be used with any hot styling tools as they can cause the synthetic hairs to melt. 

4. Store your wig when not using 

It is best to make sure your wig is kept in good condition by making sure it is stored away neatly. This can be done by wrapping it in a hair net and putting it in a ziplock bag, or even investing in a wig stand. It is also imperative that the wig is kept away from direct sunlight and is stored in a cool, dry place (so maybe the bathroom is ruled out).

5. Avoid wearing wig to bed or during exercise 

When you exercise and start to sweat, the sweat and oils begin to build up on your scalp. These oils will then build up in your wig and cause damage. Likewise, when you sleep through the night your scalp tends to shed dead skin and produce these same oils. Not to mention, any tossing and turning through the night will cause friction on your hair which leads to tangles and breakage. It's best to either leave the wig off during the night or invest in a sleeping cap. 

6. Wear a wig cap

One of the best things you can invest in to keep your wig clean and help preserve its longevity is wearing a wig cap. The cap works by tucking your natural hair underneath (think of it like a swimming cap) and placing the wig on top. That way the sweat and oils that build up won't touch your wig. A wig cap is also a lot easier to wash than a wig. 

7. Choose a synthetic wig over human hair wig 

The biggest insight into preserving a wig's longevity will be depended on the type of wig you invest in. Human hair wigs typically last a year, while synthetic wigs tend to last approximately 6 months. The wigs lifespan can be extended however if preserved and looked after well. Investing in a short haired wig over a long haired wig will also extend its life as there is less hair to try and maintain. 

8. Keep your hair and scalp healthy and clean 

When it comes to hair system bonding, nothing is more important than cleansing the hair and scalp before a new install. Bond Breaker Shampoo breaks down adhesives, scrubs the skin, and cleans the hair in one step. This saves you time and money. It is recommended for use before an install for preparation or after removal for final cleaning. Keep in mind, most other shampoos will leave residues that will greatly reduce hold times. This shampoo is for intense cleansing and is not to be used as a daily shampoo. As a reminder, always make sure your natural hair is completely dry and clean before placing on your hair piece.