Are Wigs Bad For Your Hair?

I always tell anyone who asks; that wearing wigs, generally, does not harm your natural hair as long as you take proper care of both your wig and your own bio hair. In fact, wigs can offer protection and allow your natural hair to grow and recover from various styling practices or damage.

However, certain factors can affect your hair’s health when wearing wigs. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Breathability

Wearing a wig for extended periods without allowing your scalp to breathe can potentially lead to sweat and moisture build-up, which may create an environment for bacteria or fungal growth. To prevent this, it’s essential to give your scalp breaks from wearing wigs, allowing it to breathe and maintaining good hygiene.

2. Tension and traction

If a wig is too tight or secured with tight clips, combs, or adhesive, it can create tension and traction on your natural hair and scalp. Prolonged tension can lead to hair breakage or a condition called traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by excessive pulling. Ensure that your wig fits comfortably and is not overly tight. Personally, I usually keep my wig very lose as I suffer from migraines and having a very tight wig tends to give me a headache.

3. Proper wig care

Neglecting proper care of your wig can indirectly affect your natural hair. Regularly clean and condition your wig following the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent product build-up, which can transfer onto your natural hair and cause issues. As a rule I say check your wig and if it looks or smells like it needs a wash, make sure you wash her.

Check out my blog on how to wash your wigs here

4. Styling practices

Excessive heat styling, using harsh chemicals, or rough handling when styling your wig can potentially damage both the wig fibres and your natural hair if not done with care. Protect your natural hair by avoiding excessive heat, using heat protectants, and being gentle when detangling or styling.

Here are some styling products you are going to love