Refresh, Restyle, Repeat: DIY Tips for Maintaining Human Hair Wigs
Wigs made from human hair are an investment in both beauty and confidence. Whether you’re rocking a sleek straight hair wig or a voluminous curly unit, caring for your wig properly is essential to keeping it looking fresh, natural, and long-lasting. In this guide, we’re diving into some simple, effective DIY tips that help you to maintain your wig's human hair like a pro, from washing to storage and everything in between.
Why Proper Wig Care Matters
Unlike synthetic options, wigs human hair units are made with real, untreated hair. This means they need similar care to your natural hair to stay in top condition. When well-maintained, natural hair wigs can last over a year while keeping their softness, shine, and manageability.
Neglecting proper care can lead to dryness, tangling, and breakage, especially in straight styles where smoothness is key. Thankfully, a few DIY hacks can go a long way in keeping your favorite wig in salon-fresh condition.
Gentle Washing Is Key
Overwashing is one of the biggest mistakes people make with human hair wigs. You can wash your wig every 10 to 15 wears, or as soon as you see any product or oil buildup. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and lukewarm water to gently clean the strands while preserving their natural oils.
Always detangle your hair before washing by using a wide-tooth comb, which works from the ends to the roots. After shampooing, you can use a deep conditioner to restore moisture. Leave it in for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Air Dry for Natural Results
Heat can shorten the lifespan of your natural hair wigs, even if the hair is high quality. Rather than using a blow dryer, placed your wig on a wig stand or on a mannequin head and you can allow it to air-dry naturally. This not only reduces heat damage but also helps preserve the wig’s original style and structure, especially important for a straight hair wig.
If you do need to style it with heat, you can use a heat protectant spray and keep your tools on a low to medium setting.
Revive with DIY Deep Conditioning
To refresh your wig in between washes, try a DIY deep conditioning treatment. Mix a few tablespoons of your favorite conditioner with a splash of natural oil, such as argan or coconut. Apply it evenly through the wig, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
Wrap the wig in a plastic cap or bag and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse with cool water and air-dry for a soft, hydrated finish that brings your wig's human hair back to life.
Store It the Right Way
One of the easiest ways to extend the life of your wigs human hair is proper storage. Never toss your wig into a drawer or leave it lying around. Instead, keep your wig on a wig stand or on the mannequin head to help preserve its shape and avoid tangling.
If you're storing it for a longer period, place it in a silk or satin bag to reduce friction and avoid moisture buildup.
Maintain That Straight, Sleek Look
If you’re wearing a straight-hair wig, you’ll want it to stay smooth and frizz-free. Run a light serum or argan oil through the lengths after styling to keep it looking polished. Use a silk or satin scarf at night to preserve the style and reduce tangling.
Brushing regularly with a boar-bristle or paddle brush also helps keep the strands aligned and glossy without creating static or frizz.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your natural hair wigs doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the help of these DIY tips, you can easily maintain your human hair wig’s health, shine, and shape right at home. Remember, the key is consistency—refresh regularly, restyle gently, and repeat your care routine to get the most out of your investment.
By showing your wig a little love, you’ll enjoy beautiful, natural-looking hair every time you wear it.
