Caring for and Maintaining Hair Pieces for Thinning Hair: Dos and Don’ts

Hair pieces are a popular and effective solution for individuals with thinning hair. Whether you’re using a wig, topper, or hair extensions, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure their longevity and a natural appearance. In this article, we will explore the dos and don’ts of caring for and maintaining hair pieces for thinning hair, providing you with valuable tips to keep your hair pieces looking their best.

Understanding Hair Pieces for Thinning Hair

 

Types of Hair Pieces

• Wigs: Full coverage hair pieces that provide a complete hair replacement.
• Toppers: Partial coverage hair pieces that add volume and coverage to specific areas of the head.
• Hair Extensions: Strands of hair that are attached to existing hair to add length and volume.

Materials Used in Hair Pieces

• Synthetic Hair: Man-made fibers designed to mimic natural hair.
• Human Hair: Real human hair that offers a more realistic look and feel.

 

Caring for Hair Pieces

 

Cleaning and Washing

Dos:

• Use mild shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for hair pieces.
• Gently wash the hair piece in cool or lukewarm water.
• Allow the hair piece to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head.

Don’ts:

• Use hot water, as it can damage the fibers or cause tangling.
• Scrub or twist the hair piece vigorously, as it may lead to hair loss or damage.

Styling and Heat Usage

Dos:

• Use low heat settings and heat protectant products when styling with heat tools.
• Style the hair piece gently, starting from the ends and working your way up.
• Experiment with different hairstyles to prevent excessive stress on specific areas.

Don’ts:

• Use high heat settings on synthetic hair, as it can melt or become irreversibly damaged.
• Overstyle or apply excessive tension, as it may cause breakage or stretching.

Detangling and Brushing

Dos:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush with soft bristles to gently detangle the hair piece.
• Start detangling from the ends and gradually work your way up to avoid unnecessary pulling or stretching.
• Hold the hair piece at the base while brushing to prevent tension on the attachment points.

Don’ts:

• Forcefully comb or brush through tangled hair, as it can cause shedding or damage to the hair piece.
• Use a brush or comb with sharp or pointed edges that may snag or pull the hair fibers.

 

Storage and Maintenance

Proper Storage

Dos:

• Store the hair piece on a wig stand or in a breathable storage bag when not in use.
• Keep the hair piece away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity.
• Brush or comb the hair piece gently before storage to prevent tangling.

Don’ts:

• Store the hair piece in a plastic bag or airtight container, as it can cause moisture buildup and odors.
• Place heavy objects on top of the hair piece, as it can alter the shape and style.

Regular Maintenance

Dos:

• Clean the hair piece regularly to remove dirt, oil, and styling product residue.
• Use specialized hair piece care products, such as leave-in conditioners or revitalizing sprays, to keep the hair soft and manageable.
• Schedule periodic visits to a professional stylist for any necessary adjustments or repairs.

Don’ts:

• Use regular hair care products meant for natural hair, as they may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the hair piece.
• Neglect regular maintenance and cleaning, as it can lead to a buildup of dirt and oils, affecting the appearance and longevity of the hair piece.

Handling and Wearing Hair Pieces

 

Putting on and Removing

Dos:

• Handle the hair piece gently to avoid tangling or pulling on the hair fibers.
• Secure the hair piece properly using adjustable straps, clips, or adhesive tapes.
• Remove the hair piece carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Don’ts:

• Forcefully pull or tug on the hair piece, as it can damage the attachments or stretch the base.
• Sleep or shower with the hair piece on, unless specifically designed for such purposes.

Protecting from Environmental Factors

Dos:

• Wear a head covering, such as a hat or scarf, to shield the hair piece from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to chlorine or saltwater, as they can damage the hair fibers.
• Use a UV-protective spray to prevent color fading from sun exposure.

Don’ts:

• Expose the hair piece to extreme heat, such as ovens or open flames, as it can cause melting or damage.
• Neglect protection during activities that may cause excessive sweating or friction, such as intense workouts or rough physical contact.

 

Avoiding Common Mistakes

 

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

Dos:

• Use hair care products specifically designed for hair pieces.
• Look for sulfate-free and alcohol-free shampoos and conditioners to prevent damage and drying.
• Opt for gentle and non-abrasive cleaning techniques to preserve the integrity of the hair piece.

Don’ts:

• Use regular hair care products that contain harsh chemicals, as they can cause the hair piece to become brittle or discolored.
• Apply excessive amounts of styling products, which can lead to product buildup and make the hair piece appear dull or heavy.

Proper Drying Techniques

Dos:

• Gently pat the hair piece with a soft towel to remove excess water after washing.
• Allow the hair piece to air dry naturally on a wig stand or mannequin head.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently style the hair once it is completely dry.

Don’ts:

• Rub or wring the hair piece vigorously to dry it, as it can cause damage or lead to tangling.
• Use heat tools or blow dryers on high heat to speed up the drying process, as it can damage the hair fibers.

Avoiding Excessive Heat Exposure

Dos:

• Use heat protectant products before styling with heat tools.
• Set heat tools to low or medium heat settings to minimize the risk of heat damage.
• Limit the use of heat styling tools to prevent excessive drying and weakening of the hair fibers.

Don’ts:

• Apply direct heat to the hair piece without using a heat protectant, as it can cause the hair to become dry, frizzy, or damaged.
• Overuse heat styling tools, as frequent exposure to high heat can degrade the quality and lifespan of the hair piece.

Proper Storage When Traveling

Dos:

• Invest in a wig storage case or travel-friendly storage bag for easy and safe transportation.
• Protect the hair piece by placing it in a net or wrapping it with a soft cloth before storing it in the case or bag.
• Keep the hair piece in a cool, dry place during travel to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture.

Don’ts:

• Fold or crease the hair piece when storing it, as it can cause permanent damage or alter the shape of the hair piece.
• Store the hair piece in a cramped or overcrowded space, as it can lead to tangling or matting.

Seeking Professional Assistance

 

Regular Check-ups and Maintenance

• Schedule regular check-ups with a professional stylist who specializes in hair pieces.
• Consult with them for any necessary repairs, adjustments, or styling recommendations.
• Seek their expertise in addressing specific concerns or issues with the hair piece.

 

Professional Cleaning and Styling Services

• Consider professional cleaning services to ensure a thorough and proper cleaning of the hair piece.
• Opt for professional styling services when you desire a specific hairstyle or need assistance with the styling techniques.

 

Conclusion

 

Caring for and maintaining hair pieces for thinning hair requires attention to detail and adherence to proper care techniques. By avoiding common mistakes, such as using harsh chemicals, improper drying techniques, excessive heat exposure, and improper storage, you can extend the lifespan and preserve the natural appearance of your hair pieces. Seeking professional assistance for check-ups, maintenance, and specialized services can also ensure that your hair pieces remain in optimal condition. With consistent care and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of your hair pieces for a longer time and confidently embrace the fuller and more vibrant look they provide.