Water wave wigs have become increasingly popular due to their natural-looking curls and versatility. However, with time and wear, the curls in your water wave wig may lose their bounce and definition. Reviving those curls is essential to maintain the wig’s appeal and prolong its lifespan. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various techniques and tips to revive and maintain the bounce of curls in your water wave wig. From proper washing and conditioning methods to styling techniques, we will cover all the necessary steps to keep your wig looking fabulous.
Water wave wigs.
Before diving into the maintenance, it is crucial to understand the nature of water wave wigs. Water wave wigs mimic the wavy pattern of hair that has been gently tousled by water. The curls are usually looser than traditional curly wigs, giving them a more relaxed and natural appearance. This specific texture requires proper care and maintenance to retain its charm over time.
Washing your water wave wig.
The foundation of maintaining bouncy curls in your water wave wig lies in the washing routine. Proper washing will not only keep the curls vibrant but also remove any accumulated dirt, oils, or products that might be weighing down the hair.
a. Choosing the right products: Opt for sulfate-free and alcohol-free shampoos and conditioners. These products are gentle on the hair and do not strip away essential moisture. Additionally, consider using products specifically designed for curly or wavy hair.
b. Detangling: Before washing, gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots. This step prevents excessive tangling during washing.
c. Washing technique: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of shampoo. Submerge the wig in the water and gently swish it around. Avoid rubbing or agitating the hair, as this can cause tangling. Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water.
d. Conditioning: Apply a generous amount of conditioner to the wig, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product evenly. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time, as specified on the product label. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Drying your water wave wig.
Proper drying techniques are essential for preserving the natural bounce of your water wave wig.
a. Towel drying: Gently blot the wig with a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously, as this can cause frizz and damage the curls.
b. Air drying: To maintain the curls’ definition, air-drying is the best method. Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can lead to dryness and frizz.
Styling techniques for reviving curls.
Once your water wave wig is clean and dry, there are various styling techniques to revive the curls and enhance their bounce.
a. Finger coiling: For individual curls that have lost their definition, finger coiling is an effective technique. Take a small section of hair, apply a curl-defining product, and wrap the hair around your finger, holding it for a few seconds. Release the coil gently, and repeat on other sections.
b. Scrunching: To create more volume and enhance the waves, scrunch the hair upwards towards the roots. Use a lightweight, alcohol-free mousse or curl-enhancing product for better results.
c. Steam treatment: A steam treatment can help to rejuvenate the curls. Use a handheld steamer or a steamer designed for wigs, and pass it over the wig’s hair. The steam will reactivate the curls, giving them back their bounce.
Nighttime care.
Protecting your water wave wig at night is crucial to prevent tangling and maintain the curls’ shape.
a. Satin bonnet or pillowcase: Sleep with a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. Satin is gentle on the hair and helps retain moisture, preserving the curls’ shape.
b. Pineapple technique: Before sleeping, loosely gather the wig’s hair at the top of your head, resembling a pineapple. This method prevents the curls from getting flattened or crushed during the night.
Regular maintenance.
Consistent maintenance is key to maintaining the bounce in your water wave wig.
a. Trimming: Regularly trim the ends to prevent split ends and maintain the overall health of the wig.
b. Deep conditioning: Every few weeks, indulge your wig in a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and elasticity.
c. Avoiding heat: Minimize the use of heat styling tools, as excessive heat can damage the wig’s hair and lead to loss of curl pattern.
How to properly maintain well the curls on the water wave wig when I not wearing them?
Properly maintaining the curls on your water wave wig when you are not wearing them is just as important as caring for the wig while it’s on your head. Keeping the curls in good shape during storage will help ensure that your wig retains its bounce and natural appearance for a long time. Here are some essential tips for maintaining the curls on your water wave wig when it’s not being worn:
Store the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head:
When you’re not wearing your water wave wig, avoid leaving it lying around or tossing it into a drawer. Instead, place it on a wig stand or a mannequin head. This keeps the wig’s shape intact and prevents the curls from becoming tangled or flattened.
Use a satin or silk wig cap:
Before storing the wig on the wig stand or mannequin head, place a satin or silk wig cap over it. These materials are smooth and gentle on the hair, reducing friction and preventing the curls from getting frizzy or tangled.
Avoid direct sunlight and heat:
Store your water wave wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat can damage the wig fibers and cause the curls to lose their shape.
Detangle before storage:
Before putting the wig on the wig stand or mannequin head, gently detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Starting from the tips, work your way up to the roots.
This step prevents the curls from matting and tangling during storage.
Use hairnet or hair wrap:
If you don’t have a wig stand or mannequin head, you can wrap the wig in a hairnet or hair wrap to protect it and maintain the curls’ shape. Ensure that the hairnet or wrap is loose enough not to flatten the curls.
Rotate wig storage:
To prevent permanent creases or imprints on the wig, occasionally change the position of the wig on the wig stand or mannequin head. This ensures that the weight of the wig is distributed evenly and doesn’t create any indentations in the curls.
Avoid heavy items on top:
When storing your water wave wig, avoid placing heavy items on top of it. Heavy objects can flatten the curls and disrupt the wig’s natural shape.
Refresh curls as needed:
If you notice the curls losing their bounce during storage, you can use a steam treatment or a curl revitalizing spray to refresh them. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully.
Keep the wig clean:
Before storing the wig, make sure it’s clean and free from any products or residues. This prevents any buildup from affecting the curl pattern while the wig is in storage.
Do and Don’t about protect your water wave wig’s curls.
Protecting the curls of your water wave wig is crucial for maintaining their bounce and natural appearance. By following some essential do’s and avoiding certain don’ts, you can ensure that your wig stays beautiful and lasts longer. Here are some do’s and don’ts to protect your water wave wig’s curls:
Do’s:
Use satin or silk:
Do use a satin or silk pillowcase, wig cap, or scarf to reduce friction and prevent frizz. These materials are gentle on the curls and help retain moisture.
Detangle gently:
Do detangle the wig gently with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers before washing or styling. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots to avoid damaging the curls.
Deep condition regularly:
Do deep condition your water wave wig regularly to keep the curls moisturized and healthy. Deep conditioning treatments help maintain the curls’ elasticity and bounce.
Use heat protectant:
If you must use heat styling tools, do apply a heat protectant spray or serum to shield the curls from potential heat damage. Keep heat styling to a minimum to preserve the curl pattern.
Air dry when possible:
Whenever possible, do allow the wig to air dry after washing. Air drying helps retain the natural shape of the curls and prevents frizz.
Store properly:
Do store the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head with a satin or silk wig cap to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
Protect from sunlight:
Do protect your water wave wig from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause the color to fade and the curls to lose their bounce.
Don’ts:
Avoid heavy products:
Don’t use heavy hair products, such as oils or greases, as they can weigh down the curls and make the wig look limp and flat.
Say no to sulfates and alcohol:
Don’t use hair products that contain sulfates and alcohol, as these ingredients can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dry and frizzy curls.
Avoid brushing when dry:
Don’t brush or comb your water wave wig when it’s dry, as this can cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. Only detangle the hair when it’s damp and with a wide-tooth comb or fingers.
Say no to high heat:
Avoid using high heat settings on heat styling tools, as excessive heat can damage the wig’s hair and ruin the curl pattern.
Don’t sleep on wet hair:
Never sleep on wet hair. Allow the wig to dry completely before storing or going to bed to prevent tangling and matting of the curls.
Avoid rough handling:
Handle your water wave wig gently and avoid rough movements that can cause tangling and breakage of the curls.
Don’t neglect maintenance:
Don’t neglect regular maintenance, including washing, conditioning, and styling. Proper care ensures the curls remain vibrant and healthy.
Bottom line.
Reviving and maintaining the bounce of curls in your water wave wig requires dedication and the right techniques. From proper washing and conditioning to nightly care and styling, a well-maintained water wave wig can last for an extended period while looking as fabulous as ever. Remember, it’s crucial to treat your wig with care and use suitable products to ensure the curls remain luscious, vibrant, and full of life. With the tips and techniques provided in this article, you can confidently maintain the allure of your water wave wig and enjoy your beautiful curls for many occasions to come.
