How to care for natural hair under a wig
Wearing a wig is not an excuse to neglect your natural hair underneath and with winter well and truly here, we know protective styling is in full swing.
But just because you are tucking away your natural hair does not mean it should be neglected. It’s a recipe for hair loss and scalp infections which can all be avoided with proper under wig hair maintenance. So just how should you look after your tresses under a wig?
Maintain good scalp health
Whether you chose to corn row your natural hair or not underneath your wig, it’s key to wash weekly and keep your scalp clean. According to celebrity hair stylist and texture hair expert Subrina Kidd “sometimes people think I’m wearing a wig so it’s easy and they forget about their own hair, but it’s key that you still cleanse and hydrate your hair weekly using a gentle cleansing shampoo.”
Wig caps should also be washed weekly as they can absorb sweat and oils from your scalp. In fact it’s best to have a couple so that you can have spares throughout the week.
Additionally avoid oiling your scalp during week, oils can lead to clogged pores and unpleasant build up on the scalp and have been responsible for complaints such as dry skin, dandruff and even scalp infections.
Monthly deep conditioning treatments are essential to keep your hair moisturised and strong and whilst scalp treatments can prevent dry skin and flakes.
Wig care
It goes without saying that looking after your actual wig unit is a must. Treat it with care. Storing your unit on a wig stand is the best way to keep it protected as well as keeping it away from dust and fumes. If you’re storing your wig away for a long while, consider investing in a wig bag. I once left a wig on the dresser only to wake up and spot a spider web on it!
Subrina advises you also wash your wig every 10 - 14 days depending on your use and if you’re partial to also applying foundation to the hairline and parting to mask the lace. If you’re unable to wash your unit yourself at home, there are many hairdressers that now offer a wig washing service. Ask at your local salon.
Keep it balanced
Your hair will thank you for occasional breaks from wigs, especially delicate areas such as hairlines and napes. Try and take a few days off wig wearing every week to let your scalp rest and breathe.
WiGrip Silk Band £15
Staying with hairlines, it’s super important to make sure your wig is properly fitted to avoid friction from the lace or clips that can lead to hair loss and thinning. Investing in wig band that protects your hairline is a must. Too-tight wigs can also be problematic, so make sure your wig is properly sized to your head.
Also, don’t sleep in your wig! This causes pressure and friction that does your natural hair no favours.
Stop this!
Glues, adhesives and double sided tapes should be avoided at all costs. They can cause allergic reactions, rip out delicate hair, speed up hair loss and also block your pores.
It’s unhygienic to wear your wig on damp or dirty hair and it’s a sure fire route for mouldy and infected scalps.
Lastly, if in doubt, speak to your hairdresser as they may have specific tips for you and your hair based on your relationship and their knowledge of your hair habits.