How to Take the Shine Out of Wigs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of your wig looking too shiny and fake? Do you want a more natural-looking wig that blends seamlessly with your hair? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll show you how to take the shine out of wigs and achieve a more natural-looking finish. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, we’ve got you covered.

Before we dive into the methods for removing wig shine, it’s important to understand why wigs shine in the first place. There are several reasons why wigs can appear shiny, including:

Type of Wig

The type of wig you have can affect how shiny it appears. Synthetic wigs, for example, are often glossier than human hair wigs because of the way they’re made. Synthetic fibers are typically coated with a shiny, plastic-like material to give them a lustrous appearance. Human hair wigs, on the other hand, are less likely to have a shiny appearance because they’re made from real hair.

Product Buildup

Product buildup can also cause wigs to appear shiny. If you’ve been using hair products on your wig, such as hairspray, mousse, or styling gel, they can leave a residue on the wig that makes it look too shiny. This buildup can be particularly problematic for synthetic wigs, which are more prone to product buildup than human hair wigs.

Lighting

Sometimes, the lighting you’re in can make your wig appear shinier than it actually is. For example, if you’re in a brightly-lit room, your wig may reflect the light and appear shinier than it would in dimmer lighting. Similarly, if you’re outside in direct sunlight, your wig may appear shinier than it would indoors.

Preparations Before Removing Wig Shine

Before you start removing the shine from your wig, there are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare. Here are the steps you should take:

Gather Necessary Materials

First, you’ll need to gather the materials you’ll need to remove the shine from your wig. The materials you’ll need will depend on the method you choose, but some common materials include:

• Fabric softener
• Baby powder
• Dry shampoo
• White vinegar
• Mild shampoo
• Conditioner
• Wide-tooth comb
• Soft-bristle brush
• Spray bottle
• Wig stand

Make sure you have all the materials you need before you start the process.

Choosing the Right Method for Your Wig

There are several methods you can use to remove the shine from your wig, but not all methods will work for all types of wigs. Synthetic wigs, for example, require different methods than human hair wigs. Some methods may also be too harsh for your wig and can cause damage. Before you start removing the shine, make sure you research the different methods and choose the one that’s right for your wig.

Removing Shine from Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are particularly prone to shine because of the materials they’re made from. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to remove the shine and achieve a more natural-looking finish. Here’s a step-by-step process for removing shine from synthetic wigs:

1. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of equal parts fabric softener and water.
2. Spray the wig with the fabric softener mixture, making sure to saturate the hair.
3. Gently comb through the wig with a wide-tooth comb to distribute the mixture evenly.
4. Let the wig sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
5. Rinse the wig with cool water to remove the fabric softener mixture.
6. Apply a small amount of baby powder or dry shampoo to the wig, focusing on the areas that are still shiny.
7. Use a soft-bristle brush to distribute the powder or shampoo evenly.
8. Shake out any excess powder or shampoo.
9. Style the wig as desired.

Tips for Maintaining the Wig After Removing the Shine

After you’ve removed the shine from your synthetic wig, it’s important to take steps to maintain the wig and prevent it from becoming shiny again. Here are some tips for maintaining your wig:

• Avoid using hair products on your wig, as they can cause product buildup and make the wig appear shiny.
• Wash your wig regularly with a mild shampoo and conditioner to keep it clean and soft.
• Store your wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
• Avoid exposing your wig to direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the fibers and make the wig appear shiny.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush to detangle the wig gently, starting at the ends and working your way up.

Removing Shine from Human Hair Wigs

If you have a human hair wig that’s too shiny, don’t worry. It’s possible to remove the shine and achieve a more natural-looking finish. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step Process

1. Wash the wig: Start by washing the wig with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Rinse the wig thoroughly and let it air dry.

2. Apply fabric softener: Once the wig is dry, mix a few drops of fabric softener with water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the wig, making sure to distribute it evenly.

3. Comb through the wig: Use a wide-tooth comb to comb through the wig, making sure the fabric softener mixture is evenly distributed. This will help to remove any remaining shine.

4. Rinse and dry: Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water to remove the fabric softener mixture. Then, let it air dry.

Tips for Maintaining the Wig After Removing the Shine

Once you’ve removed the shine from your human hair wig, it’s important to take steps to maintain it. Here are some tips:

• Avoid using hair products on the wig: Using hair products on your wig can cause buildup, which can make it appear shiny again. Stick to using products specifically designed for wigs.

• Store the wig properly: When you’re not wearing the wig, store it on a wig stand or in a box to protect it from dust and dirt.

• Brush the wig regularly: Brushing the wig regularly will help to prevent tangles and keep it looking its best.

• Wash the wig as needed: Depending on how often you wear the wig, you may need to wash it every few weeks to keep it clean and fresh.

Conclusion

Removing shine from wigs is an important step in achieving a natural-looking finish. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, there are steps you can take to reduce shine and create a more realistic look. From washing the wig to using fabric softener, there are many methods to choose from. By following our step-by-step guide and taking steps to maintain your wig, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking hairstyle that will turn heads wherever you go.