Wigs are an excellent way to change up your hairstyle instantly, whether you’re experimenting with new looks or simply protecting your natural hair. However, just like natural hair, wigs need maintenance to stay looking fresh and natural. From keeping them free of tangles to ensuring they maintain their shape and shine, the right products are essential. If you’re looking to keep your wig in top condition, here are the best products to keep your wig looking fresh and natural.
1. Wig Shampoo: Gentle Care for Clean Fibers
The first step in maintaining a fresh wig is regular washing, but it’s important to use the right kind of shampoo. Regular shampoos can be too harsh for wig fibers, whether synthetic or human hair, stripping them of moisture and causing damage. For synthetic wigs, always use a specialized synthetic wig shampoo. These shampoos are designed to clean without altering the texture or causing the fibers to lose their shape. For human hair wigs, opt for a sulfate-free shampoo, which is gentle on hair while still providing a thorough cleanse.
Recommendation:
- Synthcare Synthetic Wig Shampoo: Specifically made for synthetic fibers, it helps remove dirt and oil without compromising the wig’s texture.
- TRESemmé Moisture Rich Shampoo: A sulfate-free shampoo that is gentle on human hair wigs, leaving them soft and manageable.
2. Conditioner: Keep Your Wig Soft and Shiny
Conditioning is an essential step in keeping your wig hydrated, soft, and shiny. Whether your wig is made of synthetic or human hair, a conditioner designed for wigs will help to preserve the fibers, maintain moisture, and prevent them from becoming brittle. For synthetic wigs, look for a lightweight, leave-in conditioner that will not weigh down the fibers. For human hair wigs, a richer deep-conditioning mask works wonders to maintain softness and shine.
Recommendation:
- Jon Renau Synthetic Wig Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner that’s perfect for synthetic wigs, providing moisture and detangling properties without causing residue buildup.
- Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner: A deep-conditioning product perfect for human hair wigs, helping to restore moisture and shine.
3. Wig Detangler: Keep the Tangles at Bay
Wigs, especially long or curly ones, are prone to tangling. Regular detangling helps keep your wig looking fresh and natural. Use a wig detangler spray or a leave-in conditioner designed for wigs to keep knots and tangles at bay. For synthetic wigs, always use a detangler that’s formulated specifically for synthetic fibers to avoid ruining the texture.
Recommendation:
- Wig Gleam Detangler Spray: This product is gentle on synthetic and human hair wigs and helps prevent tangles while adding a bit of shine.
- Kenra Professional Detangler: A great choice for human hair wigs, this product helps with easy detangling while reducing frizz and static.
4. Wig Cap or Liner: Essential for Comfort and Longevity
While not a direct treatment for the wig itself, a good wig cap or liner can help extend the life of your wig. These products protect your wig from dirt, sweat, and oils from your scalp. A wig cap also provides a more secure fit, preventing your wig from slipping or shifting throughout the day. For extra comfort, opt for a breathable, moisture-wicking liner that will keep your scalp cool.
Recommendation:
- Elope Stretch Wig Cap: A soft, stretchy cap that provides a snug fit while protecting your wig.
- Wig Pro Deluxe Liner: A lightweight, breathable cap designed to keep your scalp dry and your wig in place.
5. Wig Stand or Mannequin Head: Store Your Wig Properly
Proper storage is crucial to keeping your wig looking fresh. Using a wig stand or a mannequin head to store your wig helps maintain its shape and prevents unnecessary tangling or compression. When you take your wig off, store it on a stand to allow it to air out and retain its natural form. This prevents the fibers from becoming misshapen or flattened, which can happen if you just toss the wig into a drawer or bag.
Recommendation:
- Wig Stand by Revlon: A simple and effective stand that holds your wig securely in place, helping it retain its shape.
- Canvas Mannequin Head: Ideal for longer wigs, it helps keep the wig in perfect form and allows for easy styling or maintenance.
6. Heat Styling Tools (for Human Hair Wigs)
Human hair wigs, like your natural hair, can be styled with heat. However, it’s important to use the right kind of heat tools. A high-quality flat iron, curling iron, or blow dryer can help you achieve the perfect style, but always make sure you use a heat protectant spray to shield the fibers from heat damage.
Recommendation:
- CHI Ceramic Flat Iron: Known for its smooth glide and even heat distribution, it’s perfect for styling human hair wigs without causing unnecessary heat damage.
- Paul Mitchell Hot Off the Press Thermal Protection: A great heat protectant spray that provides an extra layer of protection before using any heated styling tools.
7. Wig Shine Spray: Add Luster and Life
Over time, wigs can lose their luster and start to look dull. A good shine spray will bring life back to your wig, making it look fresh, vibrant, and natural. This is especially important for synthetic wigs, which can sometimes look overly matte or lifeless. Apply a light mist of wig shine spray to keep your wig looking glossy and natural.
Recommendation:
- Wig Spray Shine: Perfect for synthetic and human hair wigs, this product restores a natural sheen and keeps your wig looking fresh.
- Kenra Professional Shine Spray: Ideal for human hair wigs, this product adds shine without weighing down the fibers.
Conclusion
Maintaining a wig requires more than just washing and styling—it’s about using the right products to keep it looking its best. From gentle shampoos to specialized detanglers, the products you choose can make all the difference in extending the life of your wig and maintaining its fresh, natural look. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, these products will help you preserve its beauty, shine, and shape, ensuring that it always looks like it’s straight from the salon.
By incorporating these essential wig care products into your routine, you’ll keep your wig looking fresh, natural, and fabulous for as long as possible. Happy styling!
