How To Keep Braids Moisturized Under a Wig

Whether you’re a regular wig wearer or trying it for the first time, keeping your natural hair safe and healthy under your wig is always a concern. Wigs are considered a protective style, allowing the ability to change your hairstyle without damaging your natural strands underneath. However, there are some do’s and don’ts with wigs that can maximize your hair health and keep your strands moisturized and happy.

So, how do you keep braids moisturized under a wig? Keep reading to find out

Easy Ways to Keep Your Braids Moisturized Under a Wig

Whether you’re wearing braided wigs, afros or long layers, here’s our top tips:

1. Never wear a wig over wet hair: Make sure your natural hair is fully dried before putting your wig on – wet hair is more delicate and easily snaps, so having it rubbing under your wig cap is asking for damage
2. Make sure your hair and scalp are clean: Wearing a wig on top of a scalp that’s riddled with sebum and dirt is not only guaranteed to be itchy and uncomfortable, but being compacted under a wig will likely make the situation worse. Shampoo and condition your braids and add some leave-in conditioner or oils to nourish your hair and scalp.
3. Make sure your wig is clean: No matter how breathable your wig is, the nature of wearing wigs means that some sweat is bound to get trapped close to your skin, which can breed bacteria and even lead to heat rash. Cleaning your wig cap and occasionally even washing the strands can help prevent buildup. We recommend washing your wig every 6-8 wears.
4. Let your scalp breathe: With so many fun styles, it’s tempting to want to wear wigs all the time. However, it’s important to let your scalp breathe to prevent bacteria growth and to give your strands a break from the friction.
5. Use a silk wig liner: Silk wig liners are a handy accessory that keep your natural hair protected under your wig. Being an extremely smooth fabric, silk helps to mitigate friction and static on the hair. It also helps to keep the hair from drying out and losing moisture.
6. Use leave-in conditioner or oils: Applying some leave-in product after washing your hair helps the strands stay moisturized under your wig. It also works great in treating hair damage caused by heat, dullness, and dryness. Some even claim that products work better when they’re secured under a wig!

As fun as it is to switch up your style with wigs, it can take some care to ensure that your natural hair is prepped and thriving underneath. With the proper steps above, it’s relatively easy to protect your hair and your style at the same time.