Smooth strands ahead, tangle troubles behind

If you're part of the club that frequently finds themselves wrestling with a tangled wig, you know all too well the struggle of keeping those locks looking lush. It's not just about vanity; tangled wigs can be a real hassle, affecting everything from your morning routine to your look for a night out. But why do wigs, even those made from human hair, seem to have a mind of their own, tangling even more than our own hair? 

 

This blog gets to the heart of the matter. We'll look at the nitty-gritty of why human hair wigs often tangle more than the hair on your head. More importantly, we’ll arm you with tried-and-true strategies for preventing those frustrating knots and keeping your wig in pristine condition. 

 

From the right way to wash and dry to the secrets behind effective storage, get ready to transform your wig experience from a tangled mess to a stress-free success. Learn all about how to keep your human hair wig from tangling and wave goodbye to those annoying knots for good.

Wig materials and their challenges 

When you slip on a wig, you might expect it to behave just like your natural hair. However, even the finest human hair wigs come with their own set of challenges, tangling being one of the most common. To understand why this happens, let’s explore the construction and material differences between wigs and the hair growing out of your scalp.

 

Construction differences

Human hair wigs are designed with strands that are aligned and sewn or woven into a cap, which can differ significantly from how hair naturally grows from the scalp. In your natural hair, each strand grows independently and benefits from the scalp’s natural conditioning oils, which help prevent tangling and keep the hair smooth. Wigs, however, lack this continuous supply of natural oils, causing the hair to become drier and more prone to knotting.

 

Plus, the way wig hair is anchored involves knots and wefts, which can create friction points where tangles are more likely to form. This is exacerbated by the fact that wig hair doesn't regenerate or heal itself like your own hair, making damage and tangling more permanent without proper care.

 

Material differences

Even when wigs are made from human hair, the processing they undergo can affect their texture and behavior. Human hair used for wigs is often treated with chemicals to sanitize and style it, stripping away some of the natural protective cuticle. This leaves the hair more vulnerable to environmental factors and daily wear and tear. The loss of the cuticle layer means the hair shafts can more easily catch on each other and form tangles.

 

Synthetic wigs, while not the focus here, come with their own tangling challenges due to their plastic-based fibers which can become staticky and prone to knots. For human hair wigs, even though the material is more natural, the lack of natural scalp oils and the impact of processing methods mean they still tangle quite easily.

 

Friction and static

Another factor to consider is the friction from clothing, which often affects wigs more than natural hair. Natural hair benefits from slight movements that help distribute oils along the length of each strand, reducing static and smoothing down cuticles. Wigs don't have the same mechanism, so the friction from clothing can make the hair staticky and tangled.

 

Getting a handle on these differences really makes tackling tangle issues a lot easier. By taking care of your wig as closely as you would your natural hair, you can keep those knots at bay and keep your wig looking gorgeous for longer. 

 

Next up, we'll share some practical tips on how to keep your human hair wig from tangling, so you can enjoy a flawless look and extend the life of your wig.

 

What triggers a tangled wig?

Wrestling with a tangled wig can turn a good hair day into a frustrating ordeal. While your natural hair benefits from your scalp's nurturing oils, wigs operate under a different set of rules, making them prone to knots. Let's unravel the key factors that contribute to this tangling dilemma, and integrate some helpful insights on why your human hair wig might tangle.

 

1. Absence of natural oils

Unlike your own hair, wigs don't receive natural oil from the scalp. These oils help keep hair flexible and reduce friction, which helps prevent tangles in natural hair. Without this natural lubrication, wigs are more susceptible to becoming dry and brittle, which leads to knotting.

 

2. Friction from clothing

The constant rubbing of the wig against clothes, especially around the neckline or under hats and scarves, can cause significant tangling. This friction roughens up the hair cuticles and creates knots that are difficult to untangle.

 

3. Environmental conditions

Various environmental factors such as wind, humidity, and dry air can exacerbate tangle formation. Wind can whip the hair into a tangled mess, while humidity can cause the hair to swell and roughen, leading to knots. Conversely, very dry air can sap moisture from the wig, increasing the likelihood of tangling.

 

4. Improper storage

How you store your wig can also affect its tendency to tangle. Leaving a wig out in the open or crumpled up in a drawer can lead to knots and tangles. Proper storage involves keeping it on a wig stand or in a silk or satin bag to maintain its shape and texture.

 

5. Lack of regular maintenance

Neglecting regular brushing and proper cleaning of the wig will inevitably lead to tangling. Hair needs to be gently brushed and maintained regularly to prevent knots from setting in and becoming worse over time.

 

Being aware of these factors not only answers the question of why your human hair wig might tangle but also sets the stage for taking proactive steps to maintain your wig better. With the right care and handling, you can significantly reduce tangling, making your wig easier to style and prolonging its lifespan. 

 

How to keep a human hair wig from tangling (8 easy hacks)

With a little care and the right techniques, you can keep your human hair wig looking as fresh as the day you got it. Here’s how to keep your human hair wig from tangling:

 

Store it properly 

Hack #1: Keep stored on a stand or mannequin

When you're not wearing it, a wig stand or mannequin is your best bet to keep it from getting tangled. It maintains the shape and flow of the hair, avoiding any unnecessary kinks or curls that can lead to tangles.

Hack #2: Use a silk or satin bag for travel

If you’re on the move, tuck your wig into a silk or satin bag. These fabrics are gentle on the hair and help prevent friction, which is a big no-no if you want to keep tangling at bay.

 

Brush (the right way)

Hack #3: Use brushes designed for wigs

Grab a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush specifically designed for wigs. These tools help style and maintain your wig, stopping tangles in their tracks. 

Hack #4: Adopt the right technique

Regularly brush your wig, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots, to keep the fibers smooth and tangle-free.

 

Follow these daily wear tips

Hack #5: Avoiding friction (at all costs!)

It's not just about how you store or brush your wig; it’s also about how you wear it. Keep your wig free from potential snag hazards like collars, scarves, and backrests, which can cause tangles.

Hack #6: Touch up your wig regularly

How do you keep a wig from tangling when wearing it? Carrying a small, portable wig brush or comb can be a lifesaver for quick touch-ups throughout the day, ensuring you keep those fibers aligned and smooth.

 

Choosing the right products

Hack #7: Use wig-suitable hair products

Not all hair care products are suitable for wigs. Opt for lightweight, non-greasy products designed specifically for wig care. These will help keep the hair manageable and free from buildup that can make tangles worse.

Hack #8: Condition regularly

Just like natural hair, wigs need conditioning to stay hydrated. Use a wig-specific conditioner to keep the hair soft and less prone to tangling.

 

Keep these strategies in mind to help prevent any knots and tangles from forming in the first place. Has disaster already struck? Read on to learn how to fix a tangled wig.

 

A step-by-step rescue guide on detangling

When your favorite wig starts resembling a bird's nest more than a fabulous hairstyle, don't panic. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fix a tangled wig, bringing it back to its former glory without causing damage.

 

Step 1: Gather your tools

Start with a wide-tooth comb or a special wig brush. These tools are designed to detangle without pulling out or breaking the fibers. We’d also recommend having a wig-specific detangling spray or a light leave-in conditioner on hand that can ease the detangling process without weighing down the hair.

 

Step 2: Prep your wig

Before you start, make sure your wig is completely dry. Tackling tangles on a wet wig can lead to more damage and hair loss. Place the wig on a wig stand or lay it flat on a clean surface. This provides stability and makes it easier to work through the tangles.

 

Step 3: Apply detangling spray

Lightly spray your wig with the detangling spray, especially focusing on the most tangled areas. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to soften the knots.

 

Step 4: Begin detangling

Start at the ends of the hair and gently work your way up to the roots. Take your time and work in small sections to avoid pulling the hair too harshly. If you encounter a particularly stubborn knot, apply more spray and gently tease it apart with your fingers before using your comb or brush.

 

Step 5: Wash and condition

Once you’ve removed all the tangles, it might be a good time to wash your wig. Use a wig shampoo and a hydrating conditioner to restore moisture and ensure the fibers are smooth. Wash gently, being careful not to create new tangles. Rinse thoroughly under cool running water.

 

Step 6: Dry and style

Pat the wig gently with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or rubbing the fibers.

Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand to maintain its shape. Avoid using high heat from a blow dryer unless it is specifically designed to handle heat. Once dry, give your wig a final brush-through and style as desired.

 

Bonus tips:

– After detangling, a light application of a silk serum can add shine and reduce future tangling.

– Regular maintenance, as discussed in the previous section, is key to preventing tangles from forming in the first place.

 

Detangling a wig might seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, you can effectively manage and restore your wig. Regular care will keep your wig looking natural and beautiful so that it can continue to deliver you confidence without the stress of tangles.

 

Extra tips for extending the life of your wig 

Caring for your human hair wig is less about chores and more about preserving that fresh-from-the-box look. Think of it as pampering that pays off, not only in compliments but in extending your human hair wig's lifespan. Here’s how to keep your wig in tip-top shape with minimal fuss.

 

→ Regular washes. Like any good hair day, it starts with clean strands. Wash your wig every couple of weeks or so, depending on how often you wear it. Grab a gentle shampoo that’s kind to wigs, lather up, and be thorough with the rinse to dodge any residue that might invite tangles.

 

→ Conditioning like a pro. After washing, don’t skip the conditioner. A good slather of a wig-friendly conditioner will keep the hair soft and manageable. Let it soak in for a few minutes for that deep moisture treatment, then rinse well.

 

→ Professional check-ins. Even the best of us need a little professional help sometimes. Every few months, take your wig to a stylist who specializes in wigs. They can deep clean it, suggest repairs, or even restyle it to keep things fresh.

 

→ Air dry for the win. Post-wash, gently blot your wig with a soft towel and let it air dry on a stand—no wringing or harsh rubbing. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources to avoid damage.

 

→ Go easy on the heat. If styling’s a must, use the lowest heat setting on your tools. Better yet, embrace heat-free styling methods to keep your wig looking natural and healthy.

 

Stick to these simple steps, and your wig will continue looking as lush and vibrant as ever. Plus, it’ll be ready to wear at a moment's notice, making your life just a little bit easier. Who doesn’t want that?

 

Now you’re prepared to tackle your tangled wig

We've unraveled why wigs, especially those made from human hair, are more prone to tangling than our natural tresses. The absence of natural scalp oils, the effects of static from clothing, and environmental stressors all play a role in this common wig dilemma. Familiarizing yourself with these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. 

 

In adopting the best practices for wig care—regular and gentle washing, diligent conditioning, proper storage, and occasional professional tune-ups—you can significantly reduce tangles and extend the life of your wig. Incorporating these care tips into your routine can transform your wig-wearing experience, keeping your style looking fresh and fabulous day after day. 

Remember, a well-maintained wig not only looks better but also feels more comfortable and lasts longer. So take a moment to treat your wig as well as you'd treat your natural hair, and enjoy the confidence that comes with great-looking locks. For more tips and the best products to keep your wig looking flawless, check out Lauren Ashtyn.