The unnatural look of a new wig can be due to its excessive sheen, stiffness, or the way it sits on the head. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, several techniques can enhance its realism, helping it blend seamlessly with your natural hair and scalp.

Materials Needed

• Human hair or synthetic wig
• Wig stand or mannequin head
• T-pins
• Wide-tooth comb or wig brush
• Fabric softener (for synthetic wigs)
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Lace tint or foundation/concealer
• Hairdryer
• Styling products (specific to wig type)

Initial Steps

Step 1: Washing the Wig

Often, wigs come with a noticeable shine that looks unnatural. Washing the wig can help reduce this sheen:

• For synthetic wigs, use cool water and a bit of fabric softener. The fabric softener acts as a mild detergent and can help reduce shine by coating the fibers.
• For human hair wigs, use a sulfate-free shampoo followed by a hydrating conditioner to keep the hair manageable and natural-looking.

Step 2: Drying the Wig

Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand. Avoid wringing out the water, as this can damage the fibers. For synthetic wigs, avoid using a hairdryer unless it’s on a cool setting, as heat can warp the fibers.

Customization Steps

Step 1: Thinning the Wig

Often, wigs come overly thick, which can contribute to an unnatural appearance:

• Place the wig on a wig stand and secure it with T-pins.
• Use thinning shears to remove excess bulk, particularly around the face and parting area. Be cautious and remove a little at a time to avoid over-thinning.

Step 2: Plucking the Hairline and Part

A too-perfect front hairline or part can reveal a wig’s artificial nature:

• Using tweezers, pluck away some hairs along the hairline and part to make it less dense and more natural-looking. Mimic the irregularities of a natural hairline.
• Be patient and cautious to avoid tearing the lace.

Step 3: Trimming the Lace

If your wig has lace that has not been pre-cut:

• Trim the excess lace along the front and sides of the wig. Leave about 1/8 inch (a few millimeters) of lace to blend it into the forehead.

Step 4: Matching the Lace and Scalp

To help the lace blend with your skin tone:

• Use lace tint or a foundation/concealer to tint the underside of the lace to match your skin tone closely.
• Apply the product sparingly with a makeup sponge or brush.

Styling the Wig

Step 1: Creating a Natural Part

• Use a comb to part the wig in a way that suits your face shape. This can be a side part or a middle part.
• Apply a small amount of concealer or foundation to the part to enhance the illusion of scalp.

Step 2: Styling the Hair

• Style the wig using products suitable for the wig type. For synthetic wigs, use low heat and heat protectant sprays if they are heat resistant.
• For a more natural look, consider adding soft waves or curls, which can help the hair appear less “wig-like” and more dynamic.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Care

Maintain your wig by washing it regularly, combing it with appropriate tools, and storing it on a wig stand to preserve its shape and prevent tangling.

Long-Term Considerations

Regularly inspect the wig for signs of wear and tear. Synthetic wigs may require replacement more frequently than human hair wigs due to fiber degradation.

Transforming a new wig into a natural-looking hairpiece is possible with careful washing, customization, and styling. By following these steps, you can enhance the realism of your wig, ensuring it complements your features and boosts your confidence.

FAQs

1. Can I dye my synthetic wig to make it look more natural?
   Most synthetic wigs cannot be dyed with traditional hair dye. However, there are dyes and coloring techniques specifically designed for synthetic fibers.
2. How often should I wash my wig?
   Wash your wig every 6 to 8 wears, or more frequently if you use a lot of styling products.
3. How can I tell if a wig is of good quality?
   High-quality wigs are typically made from finer fibers, have more detailed hairlines, and come with features like lace fronts and monofilament tops that offer a more natural appearance.