Synthetic Hair Wigs & Toppers:
10 Hacks To Make Your Synthetic Hair Look Real!
How to make synthetic wigs look real
How to make a synthetic wig look real? All it will take is a little time and effort. In this step-by-step guide including our hacks, we’re going to transform a synthetic wig into a fairly good-looking one!
Hack #1: How to Add Roots to Synthetic Wigs
Rooting a wig can instantly transform its appearance and make synthetic wigs look real, hide knots, and create a more polished look.
Why Root a Wig? Before we jump into the how-to, let’s quickly go over why you might want to root a wig. Rooting offers several benefits:
Natural Look: Rooted wigs mimic the appearance of natural hair, making them blend seamlessly with your own hairline.
Knot Concealment: If your wig has visible knots, rooting can help disguise them.
Dimension: Rooting adds depth and dimension to the wig’s color, enhancing its overall aesthetic.
Tools You’ll Need: To root a wig, you’ll need a few basic tools:
Root Spray: I love using the L’Oreal Magic Root Cover-Up, which provides excellent coverage.
Fine-Tooth Rat Tail Comb: This will help distribute the product evenly and prevent a crunchy texture.
Gloves: Protect your hands from staining while working with the root spray.
Step-by-Step Guide – How To Add Roots To A Synthetic Wig
Part the Wig: Begin by parting your wig as desired. For free-parting wigs, create a part that suits your style. If you’re working with a lace front wig, be sure to apply root spray to the lace area to avoid any noticeable gaps when you shift the wig.
Spray Technique: Hold the root spray can about six inches away from the wig’s root area. Use a flicking motion with your wrist as you spray. This technique helps create a natural-looking root line. Remember that getting closer will result in a darker and more concentrated color, while spraying from a distance creates a lighter, wispy effect.
Comb It Out: After spraying, run a fine-tooth rat tail comb through the rooted area to break up the product and blend it evenly. This step is crucial for avoiding a stiff or crunchy texture.
Continue Parting: Repeat the process by parting the wig into sections, working your way through the entire lace area. Ensure that you root around the hairline for a seamless finish.
Optional: If your wig has a crown area, create a horseshoe shape by parting it farther back. This will prevent the rooted area from looking awkward and ending abruptly.
Rooting a wig is an excellent way to elevate its appearance, making it look more natural and stylish. This technique is relatively easy to master and provides long-lasting results. However, keep in mind that rooting can be more permanent on lighter wigs and may require touch-ups over time.
Hack #2: Make Your Scalp Look Real
Let’s kick things off with a hack to make your synthetic closure look more like your scalp. Get some makeup powder and apply the makeup along the part. Most times, the part doesn’t match your skin tone, so this trick is a lifesaver.
Hack #3: Tame the Shine with Baby Powder
If your synthetic hair is looking a bit too shiny, baby powder is your new BFF. Baby powder will make too shiny synthetic wigs look instantly more real. Just sprinkle some on, give it a gentle pat-down, and voila! It’ll tone down the shine, giving your hair a more natural look
Hack #4: Revive with Water and Conditioner
When your synthetic locks start to lose their luster, don’t fret. Revive them with a spray bottle filled with cold water and a bit of conditioner. A little spritz and finger-combing can work wonders.
Hack #5: Curling Synthetic Hair
Curling synthetic hair can be a breeze if you know the trick. Use a flat iron, but remember to hold the curl for about 15 seconds. Synthetic hair doesn’t hold as long as human hair, but this method can bring back those curls. In our opinion, some nice curls make synthetic wigs look more real instantly!
Hack #6: Try Makeup Powder on Your Synthetic Lace Wig
To make the top lace on your synthetic wig closer to your skin tone, apply some makeup powder that matches your skin tone.
Hack #7: Avoid Already Shiny Hair (if you buy online)
When shopping for synthetic wigs, avoid those that look unnaturally shiny from the beginning. What you see in the picture can be much shinier in real life, and that’s not a good thing.
Hack #8: Do Not Wear Your Wig In Bed
If you want your synthetic hair to last longer, avoid sleeping sleeping with it! All that friction while tossing around will shorten the lifespan of your unit!
Hack #9: Fluff Up the Curls with Water and Conditioner
Synthetic curls can lose their shape, but don’t worry! Spray them with water and conditioner, scrunch them, and they’ll bounce back beautifully.
Hack #10: Invest In a High-Quality Synthetic Wig From A Trusted Brand!
When shopping for synthetic hair, look for brands like Raquel Welch, Estetica or Gabor. These high-quality synthetic wigs mimic human hair, are less shiny, and are more manageable.
Q&A: Caring for Synthetic Wigs
1. Can Synthetic Wigs Be Dyed?
No, synthetic wigs typically cannot be dyed with traditional hair dyes. Synthetic wig fibers are made from materials like kanekalon or Toyokalon, which do not readily absorb hair dye. Attempting to dye a synthetic wig with regular hair dye can result in unpredictable and often unsatisfactory outcomes. There are specially formulated wig dyes available, but even then, the results can be inconsistent. It’s generally recommended to choose a synthetic wig in the desired color or style rather than attempting to dye it.
2. How to Wash a Synthetic Wig?
Washing a synthetic wig requires gentle care to maintain its appearance and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Brush: Before washing, gently detangle the wig with a wig brush or wide-tooth comb to remove any knots or tangles.
Fill a Basin: Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water. Never use hot water, as it can damage the wig fibers.
Shampoo: Add a small amount of specially formulated synthetic wig shampoo to the water and swirl to create a soapy solution.
Soak: Immerse the wig in the soapy water, gently swishing it around for a few minutes. Avoid rubbing or twisting, as this can cause tangling.
Rinse: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cold water until all the shampoo is removed.
Condition: Apply a synthetic wig conditioner or fabric softener (diluted with water) to the wig, avoiding the roots. This helps maintain the wig’s softness and shine.
Rinse Again: Rinse the conditioner out with cold water.
Pat Dry: Gently pat the wig with a clean towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the wig.
Air Dry: Place the wig on a wig stand or a clean, dry towel to air dry. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers or direct sunlight, as they can damage synthetic fibers.
Styling: Once the wig is dry, you can style it as desired using low-heat tools specially designed for synthetic wigs.
3. How Long Do Synthetic Wigs Last?
The lifespan of a synthetic wig depends on various factors, including the wig’s quality, how often it’s worn, and how well it’s cared for. On average, a well-maintained synthetic wig can last anywhere from 4 to 6 months of regular use. However, higher-quality synthetic wigs can last longer, sometimes up to a year or more. Here are some tips to extend the life of your synthetic wig:
Proper Care: Follow a regular cleaning and maintenance routine as outlined in question 2.
Avoid Heat: Avoid exposure to high temperatures, such as ovens, stovetops, and open flames. Synthetic wig fibers can melt or become damaged from heat.
Storage: Store your wig on a wig stand or in a breathable container to prevent tangling and dust accumulation.
Rotation: If possible, rotate between multiple wigs to reduce wear and tear on a single wig.
Avoid Friction: Be mindful of friction from clothing collars or scarves, as it can cause friction and tangling.
Remember that synthetic wigs have a finite lifespan and will eventually show signs of wear and tear. Regular maintenance and gentle handling can help you make the most of your synthetic wig’s longevity.
Conclusion
With these 10 hacks, you’re now armed with the knowledge on how to make a synthetic wig look real. Remember, synthetic hair isn’t meant to be a replica of human hair, but with the right tricks and tips, you can have stunning, budget-friendly locks.