5 Things You Should Do to Care for Natural Hair While Wearing a Wig

As a naturalista, many of us are proud of our natural kinks, coils, and curls. However, on occasion, we also like to change things up a bit without necessarily having to chemically alter or cut our natural tresses. Wigs, like Dezzy J’s Crowned Creations 22” sleek straight Vietnamese human hair wig, provide a fantastic alternative for protective styling and for naturalistas seeking to change their look without having to modify their natural hair. 

If you are the naturalistas in the mood for temporary transformation, it’s time to add a few wigs to your hairstyling repertoire. However, as you embark on your journey towards acquiring your first line of wigs –or even if you are a wig maven, there are a few actions you should plan to take for your natural hair while it is tucked away beneath your wig. 

Here are five things you should do to care for natural hair while wearing a wig. 

Although your hair will be tucked away in a protective style beneath that wig, your scalp will still demand a few things from you. When possible, make sure that your scalp is clean. Your scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. While it is okay to don a wig for an emergency or a lousy hair day, you must start with a clean foundation in which you plan to wear a wig for an extended period. A dirty scalp or one that is experiencing product build-up and clogged pores. If you allow your scalp to remain riddled with dirt and debris, it can contribute to thinning hair or hair loss. 

In addition to cleaning your scalp, massage your scalp after wearing a wig. Wig caps can sometimes decrease blood flow to the scalp region. Performing a scalp massage after removing your scalp can restore or improve blood flow to the area. 

Ensure that you take steps to moisturize your hair before placing it into a protective style worn beneath the wig. Although you will not be manipulating your hair during this time, adequate moisture is essential for healthy hair or hair elasticity. Using a moisture-rich shampoo, deep conditioner, and leave-in conditioner in your hair before tucking it away can help to ensure that your hair is ready and able to withstand the protective styling process. 

Avoid Wearing Wigs Over Damp Hair

Next, you want to avoid wearing wigs over wet hair. Wet or damp hair can create a perfect environment for bacteria or fungal growth and generate a foul smell. Bacteria and fungus can wreak havoc on your scalp, causing inflammation and irritation. Scalp inflammation and irritation, if not treated, can lead to hair loss. 

It may be convenient to put your wig on without a wig cap, but do not do it. Wig caps serve as an essential barrier between your wig and hair. It protects your natural hair from unnecessary friction, which may lead to a disruption in your hair structure or breakage. 

Edges! Edges! Edges! Those baby hairs are the weakest hairs on your head and require an extra dose of tender loving care. Should you decide to use your edges to create the illusion of an amazing hairline, use an edge control gel containing essential oils that help strengthen your hair. Also, take care when removing a lace front wig. Always use a wig adhesive remover and using a conditioning essential oil like argan or jojoba oil. Massage those edges when your wig is not in use to promote blood circulation to the region.

Wigs are a fun way to transform your appearance. Wigs do not require a lot of work, but the ease of wearing one does mean that you should neglect the hair underneath these units. Keep your hair and scalp clean and adequately moisturized to minimize the chance for hair damage or breakage. Always wear a wig cap to reduce friction and take the time to trim your hair. 

Being purposeful about your decision to wear a wig will ensure that you don’t miss a step in maintaining healthy natural hair.