How Long Does a Wig Last?

How long a wig lasts is one of the major questions wig wearers ask before they purchase a new wig. This is a valid question as we all want to get value for our money. A Google search on this question will reveal the answer that a quality wig can last for months. Yet, many wig wearers have shown that a quality wig can last for more than a year. This, however, depends on many factors, and in this article, we will be exploring some of those factors.

Factors That Determine the Lifetime of a Wig

Factor 1: The Hair Type

The hair type of wig can be a major determinant in the longevity of that wig. Usually, wigs are made from human hair, synthetic hair, a blend both of human hair and synthetic hair, or animal hair.

Human Hair

These hair types are the most long-lasting of all the hair types on a wig. This is because they come from the head of real humans who either donate or sell their hair. You can style them in multiple ways yet maintaining their healthy and shiny feel for a long period. Due to all of these, they can be costlier than other hair types.

Synthetic Hair

In the hair types category, these hairs are considered to be the least quality type. This is because they come from plastic materials and were designed to imitate real hair. They are also cheaper. However, due to their composition, they do not last as long. They can easily get tangled and matted. You also cannot use heat styling tools on many of them else they will burn.

Blend Hair

Blend hairs are a combination of both synthetic and human hair wigs. While this hair type may not last as long as a human hair wig, it may outlast a synthetic hair wig. You can also style blend wigs in different ways. Due to their affordability and higher quality than synthetic hair, they are a good choice for people who can’t afford human hair wigs but don’t want to wear synthetic hair. 

Animal Hair

Animal hair wigs are simply wigs that come from animals such as goats, yaks, or horses. While these hairs are not as good quality as human hair, they have more quality than synthetic hair. As such, they may outlast synthetic hair. Animal hairs are also limited in styling options as heat styling tools can cause them to melt.

Factor 2: The Styling Tools/Methods You Use

The tools, products, and methods you use when it comes to styling your wig can determine how long it will last. For example, tools with broken ends can cause the hair of the wig to pull, snap and break during styling. Also, improper tools can lead to damage to the wig structure during styling. When it comes to products, it is important that you avoid products that contain alcohol and too much protein. This is because such ingredients can dry the hair and also break the bonds of the wig. Instead, use your leave-in conditioner or daily moisturizer to give the wig the necessary moisture it needs.

Another thing to do is to properly detangle the hair before you start styling. Detangling will get rid of knots and tangles that can cause hair loss. However, you have to do this gently and with patience to avoid causing further damage to the wig.

When using heat styling tools, make sure to first coat the hair on the wig in a heat protectant. This will prevent the wig from experiencing heat damage.

Finally, be gentle when styling. Do not pull or yank at the hair strands.

Factor 3: Have a Maintenance Routine

Your maintenance routine will determine how long your wig will last. If you forget to care for your wig, then it may not last as long as you want it to. It will become exposed to dust, dirt, matting, tangling, and discoloration, among others. Here is an easy maintenance routine you can follow to increase the longevity of your wig:

• Moisturize Your Wig

Moisture is necessary to keep your wig looking healthy and shiny and to also make it easy to style. Massage your leave-in conditioner or moisturizing cream into the hair strands to give it moisture.

• Wash Your Wig

Shampoo and condition your wig once every two weeks (although this depends on how much dirt and build-up is resident in the wig). When you washing and condition your wig, it will look its best and last longer.

• Wear a Satin or Silk Scarf to Bed

Experts usually recommend that you take off your wig before sleeping so as to prevent any tangles or matting. However, if you want to sleep with your wig in, you should wrap it in a silk or satin scarf first. This will prevent it from getting tangled.

• Store Your Wig Properly

Finally, when it comes to maintaining your wig for longevity purposes, you need to store it properly. Improper storage such as exposing it to sunlight can lead to the fading of its natural color. To store your wig properly, put it on a wig stand or a mannequin head after use in a cool dry place. You can also read this detailed guide on how to properly care for your wig.

Summary

How long does a wig last? Well, now you know that besides the quality of the wig, the way you handle it can determine how long or how short it will last. So, put the styling and maintenance tips to work for a last-longing wig. You can shop here for quality wigs.