How to Stop Wig from Shedding

It’s frustrating to bring your wig home, only to notice it’s shedding excessively. You might feel helpless and worry that you’ll need to replace it sooner than expected. However, you don’t have to put up with excessive shedding – with a few simple tips and tricks, you can prevent it. In this article, we’ll explore why your wig may be shedding and share some effective methods to minimize it.

Why Is Your Wig Shedding?

When purchasing a wig, whether for fashion or medical reasons, it’s crucial to understand how to care for it. Wigs are delicate, and their longevity and appearance rely heavily on proper maintenance.

Wig shedding is one of the major issues that can make your wig look thin, untidy, and unrealistic, eventually rendering it unusable. Understanding the causes of wig shedding and how to prevent it is essential for keeping your wig in the best condition.

1. The Type of Wig Matters

Wigs come in various types based on cap construction (e.g., lace front, full lace), hair type (synthetic, human hair, raw hair, Remy hair), and other factors.

When it comes to shedding, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

• High-Quality Wigs Shed Less: Low-quality wigs, such as synthetic or non-Remy human hair wigs, tend to shed more because they are more prone to tangling and have shorter lifespans. In non-Remy wigs, the cuticles are not aligned, leading to tangling and shedding when detangling. Investing in a high-quality human hair wig can reduce these issues and provide long-term value.
• Chemical Processing Weakens Hair: Wigs that have undergone significant chemical processing to achieve specific textures or colors may shed more easily as the hair strands are already weakened.
• Proper Fit is Important: A poorly fitting wig that constantly slips or shifts can cause excessive shedding due to the friction and tension on the hair. Opting for a custom-sized wig or adjusting the wig after purchase can help reduce this issue.
• Cap Construction Affects Shedding: Lace front wigs, while offering a more natural look, are delicate and prone to shedding, particularly around the edges. Hand-tied wigs, often of higher quality, have each strand knotted individually, making them more secure. However, these wigs are more delicate overall, so proper care is crucial to avoid damage and shedding.

2. Improper Maintenance and Storage

Proper wig care is essential for maintaining its longevity and minimizing shedding. Mistakes in how you care for or store your wig can lead to excess shedding, including:

• Washing too frequently or using poor-quality water
• Using the wrong type of brush or comb
• Rough brushing or combing
• Excessive heat styling, coloring, or tight pulling
• Improper detangling (always start from the ends and work upward)
• Using products that aren’t wig-friendly
• Improper storage, which can lead to matting and tangling
• Storing wigs in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity and heat
• Failing to pack wigs properly when traveling

Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to keep your wig in good condition. For more tips, refer to guides on washing, styling, and storing wigs.

3. Environmental Factors

Daily wear and tear is unavoidable, but proper care can significantly slow the process. Environmental factors also play a role in wig shedding. For example:

• Sunlight Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken wig fibers, leading to increased shedding over time.
• Windy Weather: Wind can cause tangles, which may result in shedding, especially if the wig isn’t protected with a hat or scarf.
• Heat and Humidity: High temperatures and humidity can cause the wig fibers to dry out and become frizzy, leading to further shedding.

4. Scalp Conditions

The health of your scalp can also impact wig shedding. For example, if your scalp is oily, the oil can transfer to the wig and loosen the knots, making the wig more prone to shedding. Frequent washing to remove excess oil also accelerates shedding. Wearing a well-fitting wig cap can help reduce this issue, but be mindful that an ill-fitting cap can create tension and friction, causing additional shedding.

How to Stop a Wig From Shedding

Now that you understand some of the reasons why your wig may be shedding, let’s explore effective methods to reduce shedding and extend the life of your wig. These tips will help you keep your wig in top shape for longer.

1. Adjust Your Wig Combing Technique

If you’ve been combing your wig from the roots to the ends, it’s time to switch things up. Combing from the roots can create unnecessary tension and stress on the hair, increasing the risk of shedding. Instead, start combing from the ends and work your way up to the roots. This gentler approach reduces strain and helps detangle knots with minimal damage. As you comb, hold the hair near the roots to prevent it from pulling too much at the base.

2. Use Greasy Products Sparingly

While you may be tempted to use greasy products for certain styles, they can lead to product buildup on your wig, causing excessive tangling. Tangling forces you to detangle more frequently, which contributes to shedding. Try to avoid heavy, oily products and opt for lightweight, non-greasy styling alternatives that won’t weigh your wig down or cause tangles.

3. Minimize Heat Styling

Excessive heat styling can damage your wig and weaken the lace, leading to more shedding. To minimize the damage, avoid applying heat directly to the lace, and space out your heat styling sessions. When you do use heat, keep the temperature low to protect the hair and lace from heat damage.

4. Seal Your Wig Knots

The lace portion of your wig, particularly the frontal or closure, is the most delicate and prone to shedding. Sealing the knots can help protect the hair and prevent shedding. Here’s a simple way to seal your wig knots:

1. Place your wig inside out on a wig mannequin head and make sure it is completely dry.
2. Purchase a wig knot sealer or use a got2b glued spray.
3. Apply two coats of the spray to the lace, holding the can about 4 inches away from the wig and spraying in circular motions. Ensure that the lace is saturated but not dripping.
4. Let the wig air-dry for at least 30 minutes or until fully dry. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a blow dryer.

Tip: It’s a good idea to seal your wig knots before wearing it for the first time and after each wash for added protection.

5. Keep Your Wig Tangle-Free

To prevent excessive shedding, it’s essential to detangle your wig regularly. Experts recommend brushing your wig daily to stop knots and tangles from forming, especially around the nape of the neck. Once your wig becomes matted, detangling it can be difficult and lead to more shedding.

6. Nighttime Wig Protection

Protecting your wig at night can make a big difference in reducing shedding. Ideally, you should remove your wig before bed and store it on a mannequin head. If you prefer not to remove your wig daily, you can still take steps to protect it:

• Braid your wig if it’s long: Gently create one or two loose braids, securing them with a soft hair tie. Avoid tight braiding to prevent unnecessary tension on the hair.
• Use a silk scarf or bonnet: Wrapping your wig in a silk scarf or wearing a bonnet will reduce friction and prevent moisture loss while you sleep.

In the morning, simply remove the scarf or bonnet, unbraid the hair, and style your wig as usual.

7. Reinforce Wefts with Fray Check

If your wig sheds from the edges of the wefts (common in handmade wigs), you can prevent further shedding by sealing the ends with an adhesive like Fray Check. This product helps secure the wefts, keeping them intact. Make sure your wig is clean and dry before applying any adhesive.

8. Keep Your Wig Clean

Build-up can cause tangles and lead to shedding, so maintaining a clean wig is crucial. As a general rule, wash your wig after every 30 wears. However, depending on your usage and the products applied, you may need to wash it more frequently. If your wig starts feeling sticky or dirty, or if it becomes more challenging to detangle, it’s time for a wash. You can check out our “How to Wash a Wig” guide for detailed instructions.

9. Use Lightweight Hair Products

To avoid buildup, opt for lightweight products designed for wigs. Heavy, greasy products can lead to tangles and shedding over time. If you use heavier styling aids like edge control or strong-hold gels, apply them sparingly to prevent accelerated shedding.

10. Avoid Scratching

Scratching your scalp through your wig’s lace can loosen the knots and cause shedding. Instead of scratching when your scalp itches, gently pat your head. While it may not provide instant relief, it will help reduce damage. If the itching is severe, consider treating any underlying scalp conditions such as dryness or dandruff.

11. Keep Your Wig Moisturized

A well-moisturized wig is less prone to shedding than a dry one. Since wigs don’t receive natural oils from your scalp, you need to apply lightweight oils like argan, coconut, or Moroccan oil to keep it hydrated and healthy.

Remember, every wig has a lifespan. If your wig is around two years old and is shedding excessively, it may be time for a replacement. However, if your wig is still in good shape, the tips above can help you significantly reduce shedding and extend its life. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your wig stays in top condition for as long as possible.

Wig Shedding Repair: Can I Fix My Wig at Home?

If your wig has lost a significant amount of hair, it’s generally best to consult a professional wig maker for repairs, such as re-knotting or replacing the lace. However, if your wig is quite old and worn, it may be more practical to invest in a new one.

For regular wearers of hand-tied wigs, learning how to re-knot loose strands can help you extend the life of your wig. If you notice a few loose hairs, you can immediately re-knot them to prevent further shedding.

How to Re-knot Wig Hair

To re-knot hair strands, you’ll need a ventilating needle (also known as a wig-making needle). Here’s how to do it:

1. Secure the wig on a stand to keep it steady.
2. Thread the loose hair strand through the eye of the ventilating needle.
3. Insert the needle through the wig lace, pulling the hair through.
4. Use a looping technique to tie a knot and secure the hair in place.

If you’re unfamiliar with this method, there are helpful tutorials on YouTube that can guide you through the process.

In addition to re-knotting, you can also use a knot sealer spray to strengthen the knots and reduce future shedding.

Repairing Wefted Wigs

If your wefted wig is experiencing hair loss, and the wefts have come loose, you can sew them back into the wig cap with a needle and thread that matches the hair color. However, for extensive shedding or hair loss, it’s advisable to seek professional help to add new wefts.

Wig Repair Kits

There are wig repair kits available for both hand-tied and wefted wigs. These kits often include patches for thinning areas to add extra hair, though the results may not look as natural as your original wig. Always follow the instructions provided with these kits carefully.

Can You Repair a Wig at Home?

Yes, you can repair minor wig hair loss at home, but it requires patience and precision. Wig materials are delicate, and any repair attempts should be done cautiously to avoid further damage. For more serious repairs, it’s often better to consult a professional.

FAQs About Minimizing Wig Hair Loss

Here are some of the most common questions and answers about wig shedding:

Do Synthetic Wigs Shed More Than Human Hair Wigs?

Yes, synthetic wigs, especially those of lower quality, are more prone to shedding compared to high-quality human hair wigs, which are generally more durable.

Is Wig Shedding Normal?

Yes, some wig shedding is normal, similar to the shedding of natural hair. However, unlike natural hair, a wig won’t regenerate lost strands. Excessive wig shedding may indicate poor wig quality or improper handling.

What Type of Brush or Comb Should I Use on My Wig?

It’s best to use a wig brush or a wide-tooth comb to minimize shedding and maintain the wig’s quality.

How Often Should I Wash My Wig to Prevent Excessive Shedding?

There’s no fixed rule, but washing every 7 to 14 wears is typically sufficient. Factors like product buildup or frequent styling may require more frequent washes, which can increase shedding over time.

Buy Non-Shedding Human Hair Wigs from Vietnam

We’ve explored the causes and prevention of wig shedding, but if you haven’t yet purchased a wig, it’s essential to consider your preferences and consult with an expert to choose the best option.

At our Vietnam-based centers, we offer premium real hair wigs made from 100% natural Vietnamese hair, known for its durability and minimal shedding and tangling.

For personalized advice, schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our wig experts in Bac Giang, Vietnam. Call us at +84949493883 to book your appointment.

We are a trusted Vietnamese hair factory with over 100 skilled workers, offering a wide range of hair styles including wavy, curly, straight, kinky, and more.

Our products come in various colors such as natural black, ombre, blonde, red, pink, and many others.

Reach out to us today!

• Hair Factory: Tan Son 2 Village, Tan Dinh, Lang Giang, Bac Giang Province, Vietnam
• Hotline: +849 4949 3883
• Whatsapp Mrs ThanhLam: https://wa.me/84949493883
• Website: https://hazuhair.com