Revive and Restore: A Comprehensive Guide to Human Hair Wig Restoration
Human hair wigs are a fantastic investment, offering versatility and confidence. However, just like your natural hair, wigs can become dry, dull, tangled, and damaged over time. Proper care and maintenance are essential to extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. Instead of tossing out a wig that’s lost its luster, you can restore it! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to revive and rejuvenate your human hair wig, bringing it back to its former glory.
Why Restore Your Human Hair Wig?
Before diving into the ‘how,’ let’s consider the ‘why.’ Restoring your wig offers several advantages:
* Cost-Effective: Restoration is significantly cheaper than buying a brand-new wig.
* Extends Wig Lifespan: Proper restoration can dramatically extend the life of your investment.
* Customization: The restoration process allows you to customize the wig to your liking, such as changing the style or color (with caution!).
* Sustainability: Reducing waste by extending the lifespan of your wig is an environmentally friendly choice.
* Sentimental Value: You might have a wig that holds special significance. Restoration allows you to keep and enjoy it for longer.
Understanding Human Hair Wig Types
Before you begin, it’s crucial to understand the type of human hair your wig is made from. The most common types are:
* Remy Hair: This is considered the highest quality. The cuticles are intact and aligned in the same direction, reducing tangling and matting. Remy hair generally lasts longer and handles styling better.
* Virgin Hair: This is unprocessed Remy hair that hasn’t been chemically treated (colored, permed, etc.). It’s the most desirable and expensive type.
* Non-Remy Hair: This hair has cuticles that aren’t aligned, making it more prone to tangling. It’s often chemically treated to remove the cuticles or coat them with silicone to make it appear smoother. Non-Remy hair is typically less expensive but doesn’t last as long.
Knowing your wig’s hair type will help you choose the right products and techniques for restoration.
What You’ll Need for Wig Restoration
Gather these essential tools and products before you begin:
* Wide-Tooth Comb or Wig Brush: Essential for detangling without causing excessive shedding.
* Wig Shampoo: Specifically formulated for human hair wigs. Avoid regular shampoos, which can be too harsh.
* Wig Conditioner: Hydrates and detangles the hair.
* Deep Conditioner or Hair Mask: Provides intense moisture and repair.
* Wig Stand or Mannequin Head: To hold the wig securely while you work.
* Soft Towel: For gently drying the wig.
* Leave-In Conditioner or Serum: To add moisture and shine after washing.
* Heat Protectant Spray: If you plan to use heat styling tools.
* Steamer (Optional): Can help to open the hair cuticle for deeper conditioning.
* Fabric Softener (Optional, Use Sparingly): For extremely tangled or matted wigs.
* Satin or Silk Scarf or Bonnet: To store the wig and prevent tangling.
* Wig Glue Remover (If Applicable): To remove any glue residue from the lace.
* Needle and Thread (Matching Color): For repairing any rips or tears in the lace or wefts.
* Ventilating Needle (Optional): For replacing lost hairs in the lace front.
Step-by-Step Wig Restoration Guide
Follow these detailed steps to restore your human hair wig to its former glory:
Step 1: Detangling
This is the most crucial step. Patience is key! Never try to wash a severely tangled wig.
1. Prepare the Wig: Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head.
2. Section the Hair: Divide the wig into small sections, starting from the ends. Use clips to keep the sections separate.
3. Detangle Gently: Using a wide-tooth comb or wig brush, gently detangle each section, working your way up to the roots. Hold the hair above the area you’re detangling to minimize pulling on the wefts. Be extremely gentle to avoid shedding.
4. Tackle Stubborn Knots: For very stubborn knots, use your fingers to gently loosen the hair. You can also apply a small amount of conditioner or detangling spray to the knot.
5. Fabric Softener Soak (Optional, for Extreme Cases): If the wig is severely matted, prepare a basin of cool water with a small amount of fabric softener (about a tablespoon for a full wig). Soak the wig for 15-30 minutes. This will help to loosen the knots. Rinse thoroughly with cool water before proceeding to the next step. *Use this method sparingly, as fabric softener can strip the hair of its natural oils if used too frequently.*
Step 2: Washing
Use a wig-specific shampoo to cleanse the hair without stripping it of moisture.
1. Prepare the Water: Fill a basin with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can damage the hair.
2. Add Shampoo: Add a small amount of wig shampoo to the water and gently agitate to create a lather.
3. Submerge the Wig: Turn the wig inside out and gently submerge it in the water. Swirl it around to distribute the shampoo.
4. Wash Gently: Gently massage the shampoo into the hair, focusing on the areas that tend to get oily or dirty. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can cause tangling.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the shampoo is removed. Make sure to rinse from the inside (cap) out to remove all soap residue.
Step 3: Conditioning
Conditioning is essential to replenish moisture and detangle the hair.
1. Apply Conditioner: Apply a generous amount of wig conditioner to the hair, avoiding the base of the wig cap (especially the knots of a lace front wig, as this can loosen them). Focus on the mid-lengths to ends.
2. Distribute Evenly: Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly throughout the hair.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the conditioner to sit for 5-10 minutes, or as directed on the product label.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the conditioner is removed.
Step 4: Deep Conditioning (Highly Recommended)
Deep conditioning provides intense moisture and repair for dry or damaged wigs. This is a critical step for restoration.
1. Apply Deep Conditioner or Hair Mask: Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner or hair mask to the hair, again avoiding the base of the wig cap.
2. Distribute Evenly: Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the deep conditioner evenly.
3. Apply Heat (Optional): For a deeper treatment, place the wig under a hooded dryer or steamer for 15-20 minutes. The heat will help to open the hair cuticle and allow the conditioner to penetrate more effectively. If you don’t have a dryer or steamer, you can wrap the wig in a warm, damp towel.
4. Let it Sit: Allow the deep conditioner to sit for 20-30 minutes, or as directed on the product label.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the deep conditioner is removed.
Step 5: Drying
Proper drying is crucial to prevent damage and maintain the wig’s shape.
1. Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water: Gently squeeze out excess water from the wig. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the hair.
2. Blot with a Towel: Wrap the wig in a soft towel and gently blot to remove more water. Do not rub the wig with the towel.
3. Air Dry: Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to air dry. Avoid using a hair dryer, as the heat can damage the hair. If you must use a hair dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a diffuser attachment.
4. Allow to Dry Completely: Allow the wig to dry completely before styling. This may take several hours or even overnight.
Step 6: Styling
Once the wig is completely dry, you can style it as desired.
1. Apply Leave-In Conditioner or Serum: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or serum to add moisture and shine. Focus on the ends of the hair.
2. Brush or Comb: Gently brush or comb the hair to smooth it out.
3. Use Heat Protectant: If you plan to use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray to protect the hair from damage.
4. Style as Desired: Use your favorite styling tools to create your desired look. Be mindful of the heat settings and avoid excessive heat styling, which can damage the hair.
Step 7: Lace Front Restoration (If Applicable)
If your wig has a lace front, pay special attention to restoring the lace to its original condition.
1. Remove Glue Residue: Use a wig glue remover to gently remove any glue residue from the lace. Follow the instructions on the product label.
2. Clean the Lace: Use a mild soap and water to gently clean the lace. Be careful not to stretch or tear the lace.
3. Repair Tears (If Necessary): If the lace has any small tears, use a needle and thread (matching color) to carefully repair them. You can find tutorials online for repairing lace front wigs.
4. Replace Lost Hairs (Optional): If the lace front has lost some hairs, you can use a ventilating needle to replace them. This is a more advanced technique, and it’s best to watch tutorials before attempting it.
Step 8: Wig Cap Restoration
The wig cap is crucial to the overall structure and fit of your wig. Maintaining its integrity is key.
1. Check for Tears or Damage: Inspect the wig cap for any tears, rips, or loose wefts.
2. Repair Tears: Use a needle and thread to carefully repair any tears or rips in the cap. Choose a thread color that closely matches the cap color.
3. Secure Loose Wefts: If any wefts are coming loose, carefully sew them back onto the cap. Ensure they are securely attached to prevent further unraveling.
4. Clean the Cap: Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to gently clean the inside of the wig cap. This will remove any buildup of sweat, oil, or product residue.
5. Allow to Air Dry: Let the wig cap air dry completely before wearing the wig again. Avoid using a hairdryer, as the heat can damage the cap material.
Step 9: Storage
Proper storage is essential to maintain the wig’s shape and prevent tangling.
1. Clean and Dry: Ensure the wig is clean and completely dry before storing it.
2. Use a Wig Stand or Mannequin Head: Store the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape.
3. Cover with a Satin or Silk Scarf or Bonnet: Cover the wig with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to protect it from dust and tangling.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
Additional Tips for Wig Restoration and Maintenance
* Use High-Quality Products: Invest in wig-specific shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. These are formulated to be gentle on human hair wigs.
* Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or perms, on your wig. These can damage the hair and shorten its lifespan.
* Minimize Heat Styling: Excessive heat styling can damage the hair. Use heat styling tools sparingly and always use a heat protectant spray.
* Handle with Care: Be gentle when handling your wig. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair, as this can cause shedding.
* Regular Maintenance: Wash and condition your wig regularly, even if you don’t wear it every day. This will help to keep it clean and healthy.
* Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about any of the restoration steps, consult a professional wig stylist. They can provide expert advice and assistance.
* Consider Professional Coloring: If you want to change the color of your wig, it’s best to have it professionally colored. This will minimize the risk of damage.
* Use a Wig Grip: Using a wig grip can help to keep your wig securely in place and prevent it from slipping. This can also reduce tension on the lace front.
Troubleshooting Common Wig Problems
* Dryness: Deep condition regularly and use leave-in conditioners or serums to add moisture.
* Tangles: Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends. Use a detangling spray if needed.
* Shedding: Handle the wig with care and avoid pulling or tugging on the hair. Seal the wefts (if applicable) to prevent further shedding.
* Dullness: Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and follow with a deep conditioner to restore shine.
* Frizz: Use a smoothing serum or oil to tame frizz. Avoid excessive heat styling.
* Matting: Soak the wig in cool water with a small amount of fabric softener (use sparingly) to loosen the knots. Detangle gently.
When to Replace Your Wig
Even with proper restoration and maintenance, there comes a time when it’s best to replace your wig. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new one:
* Excessive Shedding: If the wig is shedding excessively, even after restoration, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.
* Irreparable Damage: If the wig has significant damage that cannot be repaired, such as severe matting or a torn lace front, it’s time to replace it.
* Changes in Hair Quality: If the hair has become dry, brittle, and unmanageable, even after deep conditioning, it may be time for a new wig.
* Fading Color: If the color has faded significantly and cannot be restored, it may be time to replace the wig.
* Uncomfortable Fit: If the wig no longer fits comfortably or securely, it’s time to find a new one.
Conclusion
Restoring your human hair wig is a rewarding process that can save you money and extend the life of your investment. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can revive and rejuvenate your wig, bringing it back to its former glory. Remember to be patient, gentle, and use high-quality products. With proper care and maintenance, your human hair wig can continue to provide you with years of beautiful and confident style.