One thing no one really tells you when you buy a wig is how much care it actually needs. We’re all guilty of it—tossing a wig on the dresser after a long day, forgetting to detangle it, or even using the wrong products because they seemed “close enough.” And before you know it, that once bouncy, luxurious hair starts looking dull, stiff, or just plain tired.
As a wig vendor and hairstylist, I’ve had countless clients bring in their wigs, hoping for a miracle. They tell me how the hair used to shine, how it framed their face perfectly, and now… well, let’s just say the wig is begging for some love.
Wigs are like our natural hair; they should be cared for as well.
I get it, though. Life gets busy, and caring for your wig can feel overwhelming when you don’t know where to start. That’s exactly why I’m here—to help you avoid those common wig care mistakes that sneak up on even the most seasoned wig lovers. Trust me, we’ve all been there, but with a little guidance, your wigs can stay looking flawless for years to come.
Here are the top 10 wig care mistakes you might be making and how to fix them.
1. Avoid using normal hairspray on your wigs:
Regular hairspray has no place on your wigs since most sprays include alcohol, which dries out and renders the hair brittle. Instead, use a wig-friendly hairspray formulated to enhance grip without taking the life out of your strands. It makes a world of difference, trust me (hairspray recommendation).
2. Don’t neglect your natural hair
Yes, you read that correctly. Our wigs are to elevate our looks, but when the natural hair isn’t well cared for, it can affect how your wig sits. Not taking care of your scalp can lead to buildup, itching, and even hair loss. Keep your natural hair clean, moisturised, and braided neatly to protect it and make your wig lay flawlessly.
3. Not having a consistent wig care routine:
Wig care should be part of your routine because wigs thrive on consistency. Leaving your wig till it starts looking rough or smelly before taking care of it shortens its lifespan. You don’t have to wait weeks or months before taking it to the stylist; you can do it yourself. A wig care routine is simple—detangle, wash, condition, and properly store your wig using a wig bag. Your wig elevates your looks; give it the pampering it deserves. More importantly, stick to your wig care routine like it is your beauty BFF! Check out our Instagram to see how you can wash and style a wig.
4. Overplucking your hairline:
Don’t we just love a natural hairline? Honestly, a natural hairline is the goal. However, over-plucking the hairline can leave your wig looking sparse and patchy. If you’re unsure, pluck a little at a time and step back to check your progress. Or better yet, get a pro to do it. You don’t want to damage that hair.
5. Dyeing your wig frequently:
Colouring is one of my favourite things to do as a hairstylist. It gives room for creativity. It allows me to switch up my look as much as I want. Trust me, experimenting with colour is fun, but constant dyeing weakens the hair fibres. If you enjoy changing colours, consider getting wigs in several hues or temporary hair sprays. This gives you the best of both worlds: healthy hair and vibrant colour.
6. Applying too much leave-in or styling products:
It’s easy to think more product equals better results, but with wigs, less is often more. Slathering on too much leave-in conditioner, oil, or styling cream can weigh the hair down, leaving it limp and greasy. Use lightweight products and start with a small amount; you can always add more if needed. However, if you notice your wig starts feeling heavy or sticky, it might be time for a gentle wash to reset the hair.
7. Pulling the wig without properly removing the glue:
After a long day, you just want the wig off, but yanking it without care is a recipe for disaster. The lace can tear, your edges thin out, and suddenly, that flawless install doesn’t look so flawless anymore. Always use a lace adhesive remover; your hairline will thank you. Let the remover sit for a few minutes, then gently peel the lace back. If you feel resistance, don’t force it—add more remover and be patient. Taking a few extra minutes now saves you from weeks of damage repair later. (Glue Remover)
8. Excessive heat:
We all love a sleek, bone-straight look or bouncy curls, but excessive heat is a silent wig killer. Constantly blasting your wig with high heat fries the hair, making it brittle and lifeless. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low. And if you have a synthetic wig, make sure it’s heat-resistant; otherwise, one wrong move could melt the fibres. When possible, opt for heatless styling methods like flexi rods or foam rollers to keep your wig looking fresh without the damage.
9. Too big cornrows:
Think of your cornrow pattern as the foundation; the flatter, the better. Smaller, neatly done cornrows create a smooth, snug base that lets your wig lay seamlessly. giving you that scalp-like illusion we all love. Big, bulky cornrows might be quicker to install, but they create bumps under your wig, making it look unnatural.
10. Over-styling your baby hairs:
Baby hairs might be the perfect finishing touch for a laid wig, but styling them too frequently will damage your lace. Constant manipulation, heavy gels, and repeated brushing can thin out the hairline and weaken the lace, causing it to rip or bald prematurely. Instead, keep it simple. Style your baby hairs with a lightweight mousse, and try to avoid restyling them daily. When you take off your wig, clean the lace gently to prevent product buildup so your installs stay fresh without damaging the delicate edges.
Caring for your wigs doesn’t have to be complicated. By avoiding these mistakes and treating your wigs with love, you’ll keep them looking beautiful and ready to slay, day after day.
It’s all about small habits that make a big impact. Consider storing your wig on a mannequin head or in a silk bag to maintain its shape and softness. Deep condition your wig every few weeks to keep the hair hydrated and bouncy. Invest in a good detangling brush and start from the ends, working your way up to prevent breakage. Use lukewarm water when washing your wig to avoid damaging the fibres. Trim the ends every few months to prevent split ends and keep the wig looking fresh.
