How to Care for Your Medical Wig
Medical wigs differ from standard fashion wigs in both purpose and design. They are specially made for individuals who have experienced hair loss due to medical conditions or treatments such as chemotherapy, alopecia, or burn injuries.
If you’ve recently purchased a medical braided wig, you’ve made a fantastic choice! They are not only stylish and realistic but also protect your sensitive scalp and let you look and feel like yourself again.
Like natural hair, your wig needs the right kind of care to keep it looking its best. Neglecting it can lead to tangles, dryness, and frizz, shortening its lifespan and affecting your comfort.
Before we get into how to care for your medical wig, let’s first take a quick look at the different types of medical wigs by hair type. Understanding this will help you choose the best care routine for your specific wig.
Medical Wigs Based on Hair Types
These wigs are typically lightweight, breathable, and made from hypoallergenic materials to ensure maximum comfort, and they come in three main hair types:
1. Human Hair Medical Wigs:
Human hair medical wigs are the most natural-looking and versatile. Because they are made from real hair, they tend to last longer, they can be heat-styled, colored, and treated much like your own hair.
2. Synthetic Hair Medical Wigs
Synthetic braided wigs are made from high-quality fibers that mimic natural hair. They are pre-styled, easy to maintain, and hold their shape well, making them ideal for low-maintenance wearers. The downside is that they are less flexible for styling and typically have a shorter lifespan than human hair wigs.
3. Blended (Human Hair + Synthetic) Medical Wigs
A blend combines the best of both worlds, the realism and softness of human hair with the easy-care benefits of synthetic fibers. Blend medical wigs are budget-friendly, durable, and often heat-friendly, depending on the manufacturer.
Regardless of which type you own, the foundation of wig care is the same; gentle cleaning, proper moisturizing, and safe storage.
How to Care for Your Medical Wigs: Step-by-step Guide
Properly cleansing your medical braids wig is important for maintaining its softness and shine. Here’s the best way to do this without damaging the fibers or structure.
Step 1: Detangle Before Washing
Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently remove tangles. Be extra gentle if you are washing a medical braided wig or a medical weave wig to prevent loosening.
Step 2: Prepare the Water
Fill a sink or basin with cool to lukewarm water. Hot water can damage both human hair and synthetic fibers, so always err on the side of cooler temperatures.
Step 3: Add Wig Shampoo
Use a wig-specific sulfate-free shampoo. Regular shampoos can be too harsh and may strip away the protective coatings of synthetic fibers.
Step 4: Submerge and Soak
Gently swish your wig in the water for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can cause tangling or fiber damage.
Step 5: Rinse and Condition
Rinse thoroughly under cool running water. Apply a wig conditioner, and use a light spray conditioner instead of a thick cream to avoid buildup between the braids.
Step 6: Dry Carefully
Pat dry with a towel, never wring or rub. Place the wig on a stand and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat, which can cause fading or fiber damage.
How to Care for Different Types of Medical Wigs
Each hair type has its own unique care needs. Let’s break it down:
1. Human Hair Medical Wigs
These require the most care but offer the most natural results.
- Use a mild shampoo and conditioner designed for human hair wigs
- Deep condition once a month
- Use lightweight oils like argan or jojoba to maintain shine
- You can style with heat tools, but always use a heat protectant spray
2. Synthetic Hair Medical Wigs
Synthetic wigs are easier to manage but require special attention to avoid frizzing.
- Use only products made for synthetic wigs; regular products can ruin the fibers
- Do not use heat unless the wig is labeled “heat-resistant”
- Keep the wig away from ovens, blow dryers, or open flames
- Use a wig detangling spray to keep the strands smooth
3. Blended Medical Wigs
These can handle moderate heat and respond well to light oils.
- Wash and condition using a product safe for both hair types
- Use low heat (no more than 2500°F/1200C)
- Alternate between leave-in sprays and serum oils for moisture balance
How frequently you wash your medical wig depends on how often you wear it. Overwashing can shorten your wig’s lifespan, so wash only when necessary. Wash every 7-10 wears if you use it daily and every 3-4 weeks for occasional use.
Storing Your Wig the Right Way
Proper storage keeps your wig looking stunning
- Use a wig stand or mannequin head to keep the shape intact
- Cover with a silk or satin scarf to prevent dust accumulation
- Keep it in a cool, dry place, and avoid sunlight, which can cause fading
- When traveling, store it in a silk-lined bag or wig box to protect it from tangling
Even with good intentions, a few common mistakes can damage your wig. Avoid the following:
1. Sleeping in your wig every night: It causes friction and matting
2. Using hot water or harsh shampoos: They dry out the fibers
3. Brushing wet hair: This can lead to breakage
4. Apply heavy oils to synthetic wigs: They attract dust and make the wig sticky
5. Ignoring scalp care: Your scalp still needs to breathe and stay clean even under a wig
Conclusion
Caring for your medical braids wig is more than just a beauty routine; it's an act of self-care. When you take time to maintain your wig, you are protecting your comfort, confidence, and peace of mind.
At Express Wig Braids, we offer a stunning collection of premium-quality medical-grade wigs made with care and comfort. Whether you are looking for realistic braided styles, sleek weaves, or protective products that soothe your scalp, Express Wig Braids has you covered.
Visit Express Wig Braids today and discover wigs that empower you to look good, feel great, and express your true beauty every single day.