Real hair wigs offer a natural look, luxurious feel, and the versatility of styling, but like all hair, they come with their own set of challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned wig wearer or new to the world of real hair wigs, understanding how to address common issues can help you maintain your wig in its best condition. Here’s a breakdown of common problems with real hair wigs and simple solutions to fix them.

1. Tangling and Knots

Problem: Real hair wigs, like natural hair, can become tangled or knotted over time. This is especially true if you wear the wig frequently or sleep in it without proper care.

Solution:

• Detangle Gently: Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush specifically designed for real hair wigs. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots, always being gentle to avoid damaging the strands.
• Use Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner designed for human hair wigs. This helps to smooth out tangles and makes combing easier.
• Storage: Store your wig properly to avoid tangling. When not in use, use a wig stand or mannequin head, and consider wrapping it in a silk scarf to prevent friction while storing.

Tip: If your wig is particularly knotted, you may want to try detangling it with dry shampoo or a light detangling spray for extra slip.

2. Dryness and Lack of Shine

Problem: Over time, your real hair wig may lose its shine and appear dry or dull, especially if it’s exposed to heat styling tools, environmental factors, or improper care.

Solution:

• Deep Conditioning: Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to restore moisture. Look for products specifically designed for wigs or natural hair to keep the wig hydrated.
• Avoid Excess Heat: Limit the use of styling tools such as curling irons and flat irons. When you do use heat, make sure it’s on a low to medium setting and apply a heat protectant spray.
• Hydrating Products: Look for hair oils or serums designed for human hair wigs. These can help restore your wig’s shine and moisture.

Tip: To bring back shine without overloading your black curly wig with products, try using a lightweight shine spray to give it a healthy, glossy finish.

3. Shedding

Problem: It’s normal for wigs, especially real hair wigs, to shed a bit over time, but excessive shedding can be concerning. This can happen due to wear and tear or poor handling during combing or washing.

Solution:

• Be Gentle When Washing: Always wash your wig gently and avoid rough handling. Wash it in lukewarm water and use a wig shampoo that’s designed for real hair.
• Avoid Tugging: When combing or brushing, never tug on the hair. Always start at the tips and gently work your way up.
• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance or trimming for your wig. This will help avoid excessive shedding and keep the wig looking fresh.

Tip: If shedding is severe, consider bringing your wig to a professional for re-wefting, as they can repair the wig by sewing in additional hair strands.

4. Discoloration or Fading

Problem: Real hair wigs can fade over time due to sun exposure, frequent washing, or exposure to styling products.

Solution:

• Protect from the Sun: Limit direct exposure to the sun, which can cause the color to fade. When outside, wear a hat or a scarf over your wig to protect it.
• Use Color-Safe Products: Wash your wig with color-safe shampoos and conditioners. Avoid products that contain sulfates or alcohol, as these can strip the color from the wig.
• Recolor or Touch Up: If the wig has significantly faded, you can take it to a professional stylist for recoloring. This will help restore the vibrancy and overall appearance of the wig.

Tip: If you’re planning to dye the wig yourself, do a patch test first to ensure the color is applied evenly and doesn’t cause damage.

5. Frizz

Problem: Frizz can make a real hair wig look unruly, especially if it’s exposed to humidity or moisture. Frizz occurs when the hair cuticle lifts, allowing moisture to get into the hair shaft.

Solution:

• Use Anti-Frizz Products: Look for serums or creams designed for human hair wigs that can smooth frizz and keep hair under control.
• Condition Regularly: Keep your wig conditioned to help maintain the cuticle’s smoothness. Deep conditioning once a week can prevent frizz from developing.
• Avoid Over-Brushing: Over-brushing can make frizz worse. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to smooth out any tangles and frizz.

Tip: Consider using a silicone-based product, but avoid using too much, as this can weigh the hair down. Light application works best to tame frizz.

6. Loose Wig Cap or Ill-Fitting

Problem: If your wig cap is too loose or doesn’t fit properly, it can slide off or feel uncomfortable, making it difficult to wear throughout the day.

Solution:

• Adjustable Straps: Most real hair wigs come with adjustable straps. Tighten them to ensure a snug fit. If your wig doesn’t have adjustable straps, you can purchase wig bands or wig grip caps to help secure it in place.
• Wig Cap Size: If the cap is too large, consider getting a smaller size. Some wig brands offer different cap sizes, such as petite, average, or large.
• Use Wig Tape or Glue: Wig tape or adhesive strips can be used for extra security, especially if you wear your wig all day or in windy conditions.

Tip: Always try on a wig before purchasing to ensure it fits comfortably and securely. If the wig cap is too tight, it can cause discomfort, so it’s important to find the right balance.

7. Unnatural Shine

Problem: Real hair wigs, especially those made from high-quality materials, can sometimes have an unnatural shine that makes them look more synthetic than natural.

Solution:

• Dry Shampoo: If your wig has too much shine, use a dry shampoo to remove excess gloss and give it a more natural, matte finish. This also helps absorb any oils that may have built up on the wig.
• Powdered Finishes: Use lightweight finishing powder, such as those found in wig care kits, to reduce shine and create a more natural appearance.

Tip: Always test products like dry shampoo on a small area of the wig first to ensure they don’t leave residue or cause the hair to look dull.

Conclusion

Real hair wigs provide a natural, versatile option for those looking to change their look, but like natural hair, they require proper care and attention. Whether you’re dealing with tangling, dryness, shedding, or other issues, knowing how to fix common problems can help extend the life of your wig and keep it looking its best. By using the right products and techniques, you can enjoy your real hair wig for months or even years to come.