Wigs with highlights and lowlights offer depth, dimension, and a striking, natural appearance. However, maintaining the beauty of these multi-tonal wigs requires proper care to preserve their vibrant colors and texture. Whether your wig is synthetic or made from human hair, the following tips will help keep your highlighted and lowlighted wig looking stunning for the long term.
Use Color-Safe Wig Products
To maintain the vibrancy of the highlights and lowlights, it’s essential to use wig-specific, color-safe products. Regular shampoos and conditioners may contain harsh chemicals that strip away the wig’s color or cause fading.
- Why It Matters: The delicate tones of highlights and lowlights can fade quickly without the right care.
- Quick Tip: Opt for sulfate-free, color-protectant wig shampoos and conditioners. These are formulated to gently cleanse the wig without stripping its color.
Wash the Wig Sparingly
Frequent washing can cause wigs, especially those with color treatments, to fade and lose their texture. Washing your wig too often can also strip away the natural shine and moisture needed to maintain its appearance.
- Why It Matters: Washing too often can dull the highlights and lowlights, reducing the wig’s multi-tonal effect.
- Quick Tip: For synthetic wigs, wash after 8-10 wears, while human hair wigs should be washed every 12-15 wears. If you notice dirt or product buildup before then, use dry shampoo to freshen the wig between washes.
Air-Dry the Wig
Heat is one of the biggest threats to the integrity of wigs with highlights and lowlights. Excessive use of blow dryers or heated styling tools can cause the color to fade unevenly and damage the wig fibers.
- Why It Matters: Air-drying helps maintain the wig’s natural texture and prevents heat damage that can dull the highlights and lowlights.
- Quick Tip: After washing, gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Place it on a wig stand to air-dry. Avoid rubbing the wig, as this can cause tangling and frizz.
Avoid Sunlight Exposure
Direct sunlight can cause highlights and lowlights to fade over time. Just as UV rays damage natural hair, they can also lead to discoloration in wigs, especially those with synthetic fibers.
- Why It Matters: Extended exposure to UV rays can alter the colors in your wig, making them look dull or brassy.
- Quick Tip: Store your wig in a cool, shaded area when not in use. If you’re wearing the wig outside, consider using a hat or scarf to protect it from the sun.
Minimize Heat Styling
If you have a human hair wig, you might want to style it using heat tools like flat irons or curling wands. However, heat can cause the color in your wig to fade more quickly, especially if you’re frequently restyling.
- Why It Matters: Excessive heat can weaken the hair fibers and fade the highlights and lowlights, leading to uneven tones.
- Quick Tip: Use heat tools sparingly and always apply a heat protectant spray before styling. If you have a synthetic wig, opt for a heat-friendly version if you plan to use styling tools.
Detangle Gently
Wigs with highlights and lowlights can become tangled, especially at the nape of the neck or around the ears. When detangling, it’s important to use gentle techniques to avoid pulling or damaging the fibers.
- Why It Matters: Rough handling can cause breakage and frizz, affecting the wig’s overall appearance and damaging the highlighted areas.
- Quick Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush designed for detangling. Start at the ends and gently work your way up to the roots. For stubborn tangles, apply a wig detangling spray to make the process smoother.
Use a Wig Stand for Storage
Proper storage is key to maintaining the shape and color of your highlighted wig. Storing the wig in a compressed or tangled state can cause the colors to appear flat and the fibers to lose their structure.
- Why It Matters: A wig stand keeps the wig’s shape intact, preventing tangles and ensuring the highlights and lowlights stay vibrant and evenly distributed.
- Quick Tip: Store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head when not in use. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or areas with high humidity, which can affect the wig’s texture and color.
Refresh the Color with Professional Help
Over time, the highlights and lowlights in your wig may start to fade. For human hair wigs, you can refresh the color with the help of a professional stylist.
- Why It Matters: Attempting to color your wig at home can lead to uneven tones or damage to the fibers.
- Quick Tip: Take your wig to a stylist specializing in coloring. They can refresh the highlights and lowlights while maintaining the wig’s health.
Protect the Wig from Friction
Friction can cause wigs, especially those with highlights and lowlights, to become frizzy and tangled. This is particularly common when wearing hats, scarves, or lying down with the wig on.
- Why It Matters: Friction can weaken the fibers, leading to dull and frizzy highlights or lowlights.
- Quick Tip: If you’re wearing hats or scarves, choose silk or satin materials to minimize friction. Additionally, avoid wearing your wig to bed to prevent tangling.
Use Shine Sprays for Extra Gloss
After a while, wigs with highlights and lowlights may start to lose their initial shine. A glossy finish is key to making the wig look natural and vibrant.
- Why It Matters: Using the right products can enhance the wig’s shine and make the highlights and lowlights pop.
- Quick Tip: Use a wig-safe shine spray to add a subtle sheen to the hair. Apply it lightly to avoid weighing down the hair or causing buildup.
Conclusion
Caring for wigs with highlights and lowlights requires special attention to preserve the color and maintain a natural, vibrant appearance. By following these tips, you can ensure your wig stays beautiful and colorful for longer, allowing you to enjoy its multi-tonal beauty. Proper maintenance and protection will keep your highlights and lowlights looking fresh and flawless, whether your wig is synthetic or human hair.
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