Does Wearing a Wig Prevent Hair Growth
Whether you are new to wig-wearing or are a wig connoisseur, there are a few myths you will have heard along the way. These untruths can sometimes add fear and apprehension to the mix. One myth that often crops up is that wearing a wig can prevent new hair from growing.
Of course, people wear wigs for a variety of reasons. Some have complete hair loss, others may still have some hair growth. Whatever your experience, it is natural to want to protect any growing hairs. It is easy to feel worried that wearing a wig might further contribute to hair-loss or shedding and you anxiously question if you should ditch the wig for good.
So, is it true that wigs prevent hair growth?
Quite simply – no! Wigs themselves do not affect hair growth or damage hair follicles in any way. However, it is how you care for both your wig and your hair that really matters.
So, forget what you’ve heard and let’s dive in to some top tips for maintaining your natural hair so you can wear your wig with ease.
How to Protect Natural Hair Growth
Thankfully, there are several simple steps you can follow to keep your natural hair healthy. Whether you are experiencing alopecia, or regrowing your hair following chemotherapy, careful attention to hair and wig maintenance protects your natural hair, which means worry goes out the window.
1. Clean Your Wig Regularly
During the day, sweat, oil and dead skin cells from our scalp can build up and can easily clog the mesh cap within the wig. The accumulation of all these things can cause scalp irritation – and nobody wants that.
To avoid this, make sure you wash your wig regularly with gentle, wig-friendly products that maintain your wig’s lifespan.
Generally, wigs should be washed every 15 days or so, however you may find a need to wash it every 7-10 days – it really depends on your lifestyle and other factors such as the humidity where you live.
2. Wash Your Natural Hair Frequently
It can sometimes feel a little warm underneath a wig, especially in the summer heat or on days when we’re a little busier than usual. Your natural hair can become greasy quickly and can result in unwelcome odours. It is also common for the opposite to happen and you find yourself with dry, matted hair underneath your wig. Either way, washing your natural hair regularly keeps both your scalp and strands healthy.
If you find your hair is dry, using a moisturising shampoo and conditioner can give it the nourishment it needs. It is also recommended to use a deep-conditioning hair mask once a week to hold in extra moisture and prevent hair drying out.
For oily hair, it is vital to not over-wash as this can cause your scalp to dry out as it becomes stripped of its natural oils, leading to even more oil in the long-run. When you do come to wash it, try using balancing shampoos and conditioners that hydrate and soften whilst maintaining the delicate pH level of your scalp.
3. Wear A Wig Cap
Wearing a wig cap is a wonderful way to maintain healthy hair. Not only do they add an extra layer of protection between your natural hair and your wig, they also keep your wig clean by preventing oily residues building up in it.
If you have quite lot of new hair growth, wig caps are a handy way to keep your natural hair from peeking out from underneath your wig. Many people also find that wig caps add an extra layer of comfort and reduces slippage which gives confidence your wig will remain in place all day long!
4. Have Wig Breaks
Having a break from your wig every now and again means your natural hair can breathe. Letting oxygen get to your scalp reduces bacteria and odours building up, and just feels pretty refreshing!
Finding a few days every so often to go wig-free will prevent excess dryness or oiliness for your natural hair, as well as your scalp. Wig breaks are well worth scheduling in to ensure natural hair growth is encouraged and that you feel your best!
5. Nourish Your Scalp
Taking regular care of your scalp is an absolute must for protecting natural hair. We sometimes forget our scalp is still skin and requires the same attention as we give to our faces. Ignoring this important tip can result in a dry, itchy scalp, rashes and dandruff.
Using an anti-dandruff shampoo is helpful at preventing a flaky scalp. You may also want to focus on soothing products with anti-inflammatory ingredients. These can relieve itchiness and keep your scalp moisturised at the right level. It’s a nice self-care treat to use a soothing oil and regularly massage it in. A calm scalp means a calm you!
Conclusion
Although wigs themselves do not damage your natural hair, it is vital to add in some extra protective procedures that give your hair and scalp some love.
With these easy-to-follow tips, you will feel confident that your natural hair is looked after, that your wig stays in top condition and that you can continue to feel fabulous!
