Sophia Emmanuel is an IAT Certified Trichologist and licensed cosmetologist. As a hairstylist, Sophia realized that she had to have a deeper understanding of the hair and scalp because some of her clients had trouble with hair loss, and she had no idea how to help them. She became a certified trichologist after reading Barry Fletcher’s book, Why Are Black Women Losing Their Hair?
Here at NaturallyCurly, she advises women on healthy hair and scalp care.
Wearing a wig is a great option to switch up your look without making permanent changes to your hair, but if you are not careful, it can damage your hair and scalp and lead to or cause hair loss or damage. Even though you may wear wigs as a protective style, it is important to maintain a healthy hair routine while wearing wigs. Here are seven ways you can improve your hair health while wearing wigs.
1. Don’t wear an incorrect size
Wigs that fit too tightly can cause hair loss and breakage around the perimeter of the head.
Insider tip: Have your head measured by a professional who specializes in styling different types of wig products.
2. Don’t skip wash day
It may be tempting to skip out on wash day, but be sure to shampoo and condition your hair as you would normally to remove dirt, and bacteria off the hair and scalp.
3. Avoid wigs that don’t breathe
Make sure you invest in products that allow your scalp to breathe. Capless wigs are lightweight and allow more airflow to the scalp. Capless products do not make you feel as hot as traditional wig caps because they have open wefts at the back and sides.
4. Don’t neglect your hairline
Stocking caps protect your hair under wigs and keep your hair flat so that the wig does not look bulky, but they can cause breakage or dryness along the hairline. To prevent damage to your edges, slide the stocking cap behind the ear. Your hairline will be exposed, and you can use a Milano WiGrip to prevent damage in this area. The Milano WiGrip is an adjustable velvet wig band that protects the hair line, and keeps wigs secure on your head. It allows you to reduce the use of combs, and clips sewn onto the base of the wig, used for supporting the product on your head.
5. Avoid adhesives if possible
If you have to use adhesive for a particular style, try to minimize how often you use the adhesive in order to prevent hair loss or breakage around the hairline.
6. Don’t use materials that cause scalp irritation
If you have a sensitive scalp, you may want to stay away from products made with synthetic hair. Sensitivities to wig materials can cause excessive itching, burning, and scalp tenderness.
7. Don’t forget to take breaks
Although wigs are convenient, they can make us forget to take care of our own hair. Take time in between wearing your wigs to get regular trims and deep condition your hair.
What are some ways you protect your scalp while wearing a wig?
Read next: 8 Protective Styles That Are Gentler on Your Edges
This article was published in 2017 and has been updated.
