Do Wigs Cause Hair Loss? The Real Truth and How to Prevent Damage

Wigs are amazing tools to let you switch up your look without cuts, perms, or dyes. They help to enhance your style and boost confidence. But there is still one question that worries many: Do wigs cause hair loss? Honestly? No, they don't. It is the improper wear that causes the hair loss. Today, let's reveal the truth about wig-related hair loss and how to wear wigs safely.

Do Wigs Actually Cause Hair Loss? The Truth

Wigs themselves do not cause hair loss. They are a kind of pure physical covering worn on the head to change the hair. A wig is made up of the base, hair, and built-in installation components. When you wear it correctly, it will not directly harm hair follicles at all. Your hair can grow normally under it, and it can also protect your hair from damage caused by hairstyling.

The Real Culprits Behind Wig-Related Hair Loss

Hair loss related to wigs is not caused by the wigs themselves. The real culprits are picking the wrong wig, tight natural hair prep, improper wearing, or skipping scalp and wig care.

Small Wig Size

When choosing a wig, the "tighter is better" rule is wrong. A too-small wig will consistently squeeze your scalp, which will compromise your blood flow. Your hair follicles will be starved for nutrients. As they become weaker and weaker, you start losing hair.

Low-Quality Wig Materials

Low-quality wig materials should really be avoided! For example, cheap synthetic fibers and rough, scratchy caps. These bad materials not only have poor breathability but may also contain irritating chemicals. The low-quality wigs often feel stuffy and easily cause follicle clogging. And that's not all. They often contain harsh chemicals that lead to irritation and hair loss.

Prep Natural Hair Too Tight

In order to make wigs more secure and natural, many people will prep their natural hair as flat as possible. Like braiding the hair against the scalp. However, prepping the hair too tightly is a real risk that causes traction alopecia. Excessive pulling and tightening of natural hair will put your follicles under constant stress. Finally, your hair will be pulled out.

Improper Installation

Whether using hair glue or built-in components, incorrect installation can damage hair! The improper operations will lead to hair loss, such as:

❌The comb is positioned near your edges, or you use too much force.

❌The band, strap, or drawstring is adjusted too tightly.

❌Applying harsh tape or glue that contain chemicals can lead to irritation.

❌Excessive use of glue will glue your hair and clog your follicles.

Incorrect Removal

Don't forcefully remove the wig! Many people find it troublesome to remove a glue-in wig; they often grab the edge of the wig and forcefully pull it. This will damage both hair and follicles. And over time, your hair edge will become thin, and hair loss will become severe.

Poor Hygiene of the Scalp and Wig

You really can't slack off on cleaning wigs and your natural hair! A long-term unwashed wig is full of dust, oil, and bacteria. When you wear it on the head, it can lead to itchiness, redness, and hair loss. If the natural hair and scalp are not cleaned, the sweat, natural oil, and dirt can clog the hair follicles, causing folliculitis and ultimately leading to hair loss.

How to Wear Wigs Safely Without Damaging Your Natural Hair

Choose the Right Wig

Size should fit well: Measure your head circumference. Choose a wig that fits your head appropriately, avoiding excessive pressure on the scalp.

Material preference: prioritize 100% virgin human hair and high-quality breathable materials. It is more comfortable to wear.

Choosing the right style: Beginners and the sensitive scalp group choose wear and go wigs, like half wigs, M cap 9x6 wigs, or 360 glueless wigs. These wigs are super easy to wear without applying glue.

Don't Prep Hair Too Tightly Under the Wig

Prepping your natural hair too tightly is one of the most damaging mistakes when installing a wig. Your goal is a flat base. Gently smooth the hair, and when you grab or pull the hair, use appropriate force.

Wear a Protective Wig Cap

Wear a wig cap to protect your natural hair. Choose a highly stretchy and breathable one. Wrap the natural hair completely inside the cap, secure the hair and reduce the friction.

Keep Your Natural Hair and Wig Clean

Before wearing a wig, make sure your natural hair and scalp are clean. Wash wigs regularly according to the frequency of wearing. Use sulfate-free shampoo, and let them air dry naturally after washing.

Choose Skin-Friendly Glue

If your wig is fixed with glue, choose skin-friendly wig glue. Especially if you have sensitive skin, identify the "sensitive skin friendly" label. Master the amount, and every time apply a thin layer of the glue.

Secure and Remove the Wig Gently

Always avoid violent actions during the installation and removal of the wig. Be gentle when fixing the combs or clips. Apply wig glue remover on the lace. Until the glue is dissolved, slowly and carefully peel the lace from your skin. Clean the skin to wipe away the glue residue.

Final Thoughts

Wigs themselves don't cause hair loss, but improper use can! When you wear wigs to enhance your hair, don't neglect your natural hair's health. By following these safe use tips, you can enjoy various styles while keeping your natural hair healthy.

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