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Caring for your first wig doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when you know the basics. Start by measuring your head accurately—most people fall between 21-24 inches circumference. Choose between human hair wigs that offer natural styling flexibility but need more maintenance, or synthetic options that’re budget-friendly but limit heat styling.
Prep your natural hair by braiding or pinning it flat before installation. Daily care means gentle detangling with wide-tooth combs and proper storage on wig stands.
Wash human hair wigs weekly with specialized products, while synthetic wigs need washing every 6-8 wears. The secret lies in understanding your wig type and treating it accordingly—there’s actually a science to making any wig look effortlessly natural.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What to Consider Before Buying a Wig
- Preparing for Wig Installation
- How to Install and Secure Your Wig
- Essential Wig Care and Maintenance Tips
- Top 9 Wig Care Products for Beginners
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the best hair care tips for wigs?
- How to care for a wig?
- How do I choose a wig?
- What is a wig care routine?
- How do you fit a wig properly?
- How do you care for a synthetic wig?
- How do you take care of a wig for beginners?
- How to keep wigs looking fresh?
- Do you have to take your wig off every night?
- What should you not use on a wig?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Measure your head accurately – You’ll need your circumference (usually 21-24 inches) to find the right cap size and prevent slipping or discomfort during wear.
- Choose the right wig type for your lifestyle – Human hair wigs offer styling flexibility but need more maintenance, while synthetic wigs are budget-friendly and hold their style but can’t handle heat tools.
- Prep your natural hair properly – You’ll want to braid or pin your hair flat, use a wig cap, and consider grip headbands for secure, comfortable placement that lasts all day.
- Follow type-specific washing schedules – You should wash human hair wigs weekly with specialized products, while synthetic wigs only need cleaning every 6-8 wears to maintain their appearance and longevity.
What to Consider Before Buying a Wig
Before you fall in love with that gorgeous wig online, you need to know what makes a perfect match for your head and lifestyle.
Getting the right fit, material, and style from the start will save you tons of frustration later and help your new wig look absolutely stunning on you.
Measuring Your Head for The Perfect Fit
Getting the right fit starts with accurate measuring. Grab a soft tape measure and wrap it around your head’s widest part—about an inch above your eyebrows. Most people fall between 21–24 inches. You can find a specialized measuring tool for this purpose.
Your natural hair volume affects wig cap size too! When buying a wig for hair loss situations, proper measurements prevent slipping and boost confidence.
Choosing Between Human Hair and Synthetic Wigs
Now that you’ve got your measurements, you’ll face the big decision between human hair and synthetic wigs. Each type offers different benefits that’ll impact your experience and wallet.
Cost Comparison: Human hair wigs cost $400-$2,000 while synthetic options range $30-$500.
Styling Versatility: Human hair handles heat tools and color changes; synthetic wigs keep pre-set styles.
Durability Factors: Human hair lasts 1-3 years with proper care versus synthetic’s 4-12 months.
Human hair wigs provide an unmatched natural appearance and heat resistance but require more maintenance. Synthetic wigs offer convenience and affordability but limit styling options. For example, some wigs use heat-resistant synthetic fibers that allow styling with heat tools up to 400°F.
Consider your lifestyle when buying a wig—frequent stylists love human hair’s flexibility, while busy folks appreciate synthetic’s easy care routine.
Selecting The Right Wig Style and Color
Your Face Shape determines which Wig Styles flatter you most—round faces love long layers while square faces shine with soft waves.
Consider your Skin Tone when choosing Wig Colors; warm undertones pair beautifully with golden hues.
Think about your Lifestyle Needs and Personal Style too. Will you wear wigs daily or for special occasions? Your Occasion Choice matters—dramatic styles for parties, natural color for work.
Understanding Wig Cap Constructions
Behind every great wig lies the foundation—its cap construction. Think of it as your scalp’s best friend, determining comfort and natural appearance.
5 Essential Cap Materials & Constructions:
- Basic Cap – Machine-sewn wefts offer affordability and durability for daily wear
- Mono Part – Hand-tied crown section provides natural scalp appearance and parting flexibility
- Mono Crown – Full hand-tied top delivers maximum breathability and realistic movement
- Lace Front – Delicate lace creates invisible hairlines for undetectable blending
- Full Lace – Complete lace construction allows unlimited styling versatility and excellent scalp health
Different weft types affect breathability—machine wefts trap more heat, while hand-tied constructions promote airflow. Construction benefits include comfort, styling options, and longevity. Your scalp health depends on proper ventilation, so choose wisely for your lifestyle and wig style preferences.
Preparing for Wig Installation
Getting ready for wig installation is like setting up for success – proper prep makes all the difference! You’ll want to secure your natural hair, grab the right accessories, and create that perfect base for a flawless look that stays put all day.
Prepping Your Natural Hair Safely
Someone once said proper preparation prevents poor performance – and that’s especially true for natural hair prep! You’ll want to create the perfect foundation before installing your wigs.
| Hair Length | Preparation Method | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Short Hair | Flat braids or pin curls | Even surface, secure hold |
| Medium Hair | Cornrows or two-strand twists | Scalp protection, reduced bulk |
| Long Hair | French braids tucked under | Moisture retention, comfort |
Start with clean hair using a moisturizing shampoo. Apply leave-in conditioner, focusing on edges for edge care and hair growth. Braid damp hair to prevent breakage during braid maintenance. This foundation helps with coping with hair loss while keeping your natural hair healthy. Take care to avoid tight braiding that restricts circulation. Resources and education show that proper prep extends wig life and protects your scalp underneath.
Using Wig Caps and Wig Grip Headbands
Two simple accessories transform your wig experience completely. Wig caps create a smooth foundation while protecting your natural hair underneath. Cap Material Matters – choose breathable cotton or bamboo for sensitive scalps.
Grip Headband Types include silicone-lined options that prevent slipping without adhesives. Many users find wig grip headbands especially useful. These Secure Fit Methods keep wigs stable during daily activities.
For Hygiene Considerations, wash caps regularly to prevent buildup. Following Longevity Tips helps both accessories last longer while you take care of your investment.
Applying Lace Tint and Dermaplaning for a Seamless Look
Perfect wig caps set the stage, but lace tinting and dermaplaning take your look from obvious to flawless. Lace tinting matches your skin tone, reducing visible lines by 80%. Dermaplaning removes peach fuzz for better adhesion. Together, they create that seamless hairline everyone’s chasing.
The secret to invisible lace? Perfect prep makes all the difference between obvious and absolutely flawless
Hand-tied wig caps offer the most realistic movement. Apply tint 6-8 inches away, let it dry completely, then install your lace front for professional results.
Tips for a Comfortable and Secure Fit
Once your lace looks natural, getting the right fit makes all the difference. A comfortable wig transforms your whole experience from constant adjustments to confident wear.
Here are three key steps for maximum comfort:
- Choose breathable wig caps – Look for mesh or bamboo materials that prevent scalp sensitivity issues and overheating.
- Find your perfect wig cap size – Measure twice, buy once to avoid headaches from tight fits.
- Add grip headband types – Anti-slip methods like silicone strips keep synthetic hair wigs secure without glue.
Your Lace Front Wig should feel like a natural extension, not a burden you’re carrying around.
How to Install and Secure Your Wig
Now you’re ready to put your wig on and make it look amazing! The key is taking your time with each step so everything sits just right and looks totally natural.
Applying Adhesives or Glueless Techniques
Now you’re ready to secure your wig! You’ve got two main paths: adhesives or glueless methods. Medical-grade adhesives hold strongest for weeks, while lace wig glue creates less mess.
Glueless security uses adjustable straps and wig grip bands for comfortable daily wear.
Always patch-test adhesives first – skin protection matters! Apply thin layers, let them get tacky, then press firmly for perfect application techniques.
Ensuring a Natural-Looking Hairline
After securing your lace front wig, creating natural-looking baby hairs is your next move. Use a fine-tooth comb or edge brush to gently pull small strands forward along your hairline.
Trim excess lace carefully, leaving about an eighth-inch border. Apply rooted colors that match your natural hair for seamless blending.
Control density by plucking sparse areas to mimic real growth patterns.
Adjusting and Blending for a Flawless Finish
After achieving that natural hairline, you’ll want to fine-tune your wig’s overall appearance. Start with parting adjustment – gently shift the part to match your natural growth pattern. Pluck a few strands around the hairline for density control, creating realistic baby hairs.
Use blending techniques like teasing the edges where your wig meets your skin. Whether you’re styling synthetic hair or natural human hair, these small tweaks make all the difference in achieving that "I woke up like this" look!
Essential Wig Care and Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve got your wig looking perfect, keeping it that way becomes your next mission. Proper daily care and smart maintenance habits will help your investment last longer and look fresh every single day.
Daily Wig Care Routine for Beginners
Your wig needs love every single day to stay gorgeous and healthy. Think of it like caring for a delicate flower—a little attention goes a long way!
Here’s your simple daily routine:
- Gentle Detangling – Use fingers or wide-tooth comb starting from ends
- Daily Storage – Place on wig stand to maintain shape overnight
- Fiber Revitalizing – Light mist with wig spray keeps fibers bouncy
- Scalp Care – Clean your scalp before wearing to prevent buildup
- Product Usage – Apply leave-in treatments sparingly for shine
This routine keeps your wig looking fresh without the fuss of frequent washing.
Brushing and Styling Techniques
Gentle brush strokes work wonders for your synthetic hair wig! **Start at the ends and work upward to prevent snarls.
** Wide-tooth combs handle wet detangling like pros. Skip heat styling on synthetic fibers – they’ll melt faster than ice cream. For natural human hair, you can use low heat tools.
Proper maintenance requires a specialized wig brush. **Always take care with proper brush types to maintain style longevity.
When and How to Wash Your Wig
After proper brushing comes knowing when to wash your wig – timing matters! Most wigs need washing every 8-10 wears, but daily styling can change that schedule.
Here’s your washing game plan:
- Check for buildup or odors before each wear
- Use lukewarm water to prevent fiber damage
- Choose wig-specific shampoo for best results
- Gently squeeze – never scrub or twist fibers
- Air dry on a wig stand to maintain shape
Water temperature is your wig’s best friend or worst enemy!
Washing Human Hair Vs. Synthetic Wigs
Think of human hair and synthetic wigs like different fabrics—each needs its own special care! Human hair wigs love lukewarm water and sulfate-free shampoo, plus conditioning from mid-length to ends. Synthetic wigs prefer cold water exclusively and fiber-specific products.
Washing frequency differs too: human hair every 10-15 wears, synthetic every 2-4 weeks. Understanding the difference helps with proper wig care.
Storing Your Wig Properly to Maintain Shape
Storage is your wig’s best friend when you’re not wearing it. Use proper wig stand types like styrofoam heads or metal stands to maintain shape. Control humidity by storing wigs in cool, dry places away from sunlight. For travel storage, use breathable bags or boxes.
Synthetic wigs need different fiber-specific storage than human hair wigs. One should also consider gentle detangling methods to prevent damage. This simple step keeps your investment looking fresh and prevents costly restoring shape mishaps.
Top 9 Wig Care Products for Beginners
You’ll need the right products to keep your wigs looking fresh and fabulous for months.
These nine beginner-friendly essentials will help you master wig care without breaking the bank or spending hours on maintenance.
1. Flwing Body Wave Lace Front Wig
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This powerhouse wig delivers salon-quality results without the hefty price tag! Made from 100% unprocessed Brazilian virgin human hair with 150% density, you’ll get that coveted full look that screams confidence.
The 13×4 transparent lace front blends flawlessly with any skin tone, while pre-plucked baby hairs create an incredibly natural hairline.
You can curl it, straighten it, or even dye it—this adaptable beauty processes heat styling up to 350°F like a champ!
Best For: People seeking a versatile, natural-looking wig for daily wear, special occasions, or anyone wanting to experiment with different hairstyles without commitment.
- 100% unprocessed Brazilian virgin human hair allows for heat styling, coloring, and chemical processing up to 350°F
- 13×4 transparent lace front with pre-plucked hairline creates an incredibly natural appearance that blends with all skin tones
- 150% density provides full, voluminous coverage while remaining lightweight and breathable for all-day comfort
- Some customers report shedding, tangling, and hair thinning over time, questioning the authenticity of the human hair quality
- Lace may be visible on darker skin tones without proper tinting or color matching techniques
- Length and density may not always match product descriptions, requiring potential exchanges or returns
2. Long Curly Brown Highlight Wig
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Several features make long curly brown highlight wigs perfect for beginners who want stunning results without the learning curve. These heat-resistant synthetic beauties can handle up to 350°F, so you can experiment with different looks safely.
The lace front construction gives you that natural hairline everyone’s after. With 180% density, you’ll get gorgeous volume that photographs beautifully.
Best part? They’re way more affordable than human hair options while still delivering salon-quality highlights that’ll have people asking for your stylist’s number.
Best For: Beginners looking for an affordable, low-maintenance wig with natural-looking highlights and heat-styling versatility.
- May shed or tangle easily with regular use
- Can become crunchy or dry over time, especially in highlighted sections
- Quality inconsistency between units, with some being thinner or more "wiggy" than others
- Heat-resistant up to 350°F allowing safe styling experimentation
- Lace front construction creates realistic hairline appearance
- High density (180%) provides full, voluminous look at affordable price point
3. Deep Wave Bulk Braiding Hair
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Nothing beats the versatility of deep wave bulk braiding hair when you’re ready to level up your protective styling game! This 100% unprocessed Brazilian virgin human hair gives you gorgeous, bouncy curls that’ll last 6-18 months with proper TLC.
You can straighten it, curl it, or even dye it to match your vibe perfectly. The natural texture blends smoothly with most hair types, making your braids look absolutely immaculate.
Just remember to wash every 1-2 weeks with sulfate-free products and sleep with a silk scarf – your curls will thank you later!
Best For: Anyone looking to create stunning protective styles like box braids, knotless braids, or goddess braids with natural-looking, long-lasting results.
- Made from 100% unprocessed Brazilian virgin human hair that can be styled, colored, and reused for 6-18 months
- Versatile for multiple braiding techniques including box braids, twists, locs, and bohemian styles
- Maintains natural bounce, shine, and movement that blends seamlessly with most hair types
- Quality control issues reported by some customers, with occasional defective or thin units
- Requires regular maintenance including sulfate-free washing every 1-2 weeks and protective nighttime care
- May need 3 packs for longer lengths (18 inches), making it more expensive for fuller, longer styles
4. Curly Afro Wig with Bangs
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Curly afro wigs with bangs are like finding the perfect cozy sweater – they instantly make everything feel right! These synthetic beauties usually feature 3B to 4C curl patterns that mimic natural textures beautifully. Heat-resistant fibers let you style up to 350°F, but don’t overdo it or you’ll lose that gorgeous bounce.
You’ll get about four to six months of wear with regular use. The bangs frame your face perfectly while hiding any hairline concerns. Gentle finger-detangling keeps curls defined and prevents shedding. To keep the curls defined, consider following a specific curly routine
Best For: Anyone wanting a low-maintenance, versatile hairstyle that provides instant volume and natural-looking curls while camouflaging hairline concerns.
- May require cutting and shaping to fit individual face shapes properly
- Quality control issues reported including tangles, shedding, and stitching problems
- Can be bulky and may not match product images exactly in color or length
- Heat-resistant fibers allow styling up to 350°F for versatile looks
- Bangs provide natural face framing and eliminate need for lace-front adhesives
- 4-6 months of regular wear with proper maintenance makes it cost-effective
5. Tan Wig Grip Headband 2 Pack
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These tan velour headbands are your wig’s best friend! They create a grippy foundation that keeps your wig secure all day without pins or clips. The soft velour material won’t irritate your scalp, while the adjustable velcro closure fits heads from 21 to 24.5 inches.
You’ll love having two in the pack—wash one while wearing the other. They’re especially great under lace fronts since they lay completely flat and won’t create visible bumps.
Best For: Wig wearers, individuals with hair loss or sensitive scalps, and anyone needing secure wig placement without pins or clips.
- Creates secure grip with velour material that prevents wig slipping without irritating sensitive scalps
- Adjustable velcro closure fits head sizes 21-24.5 inches with quick 30-second application
- Two-pack allows for continuous use while washing the other, plus lies completely flat under lace front wigs
- May stretch out or lose shape over time with regular use and washing
- Can add bulk under wigs and may feel hot or sweaty in warm weather
- Velcro may catch on clothing or other materials, and some users experience scalp itchiness
6. Schick Hydro Silk Dermaplaning Tool
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Ninety percent of professional wig installers swear by dermaplaning tools like the Schick Hydro Silk for creating impeccable lace front applications. This budget-friendly tool removes peach fuzz and dead skin cells around your hairline, giving adhesives better grip. The precision guards protect your skin while you prep for installation.
Clean, smooth skin means your lace blends uniformly and stays put longer. It’s like creating the perfect canvas before painting your masterpiece!
Best For: Wig wearers who need affordable, precise facial hair removal around the hairline for seamless lace front application and those seeking professional-level skin prep at home.
- Creates smooth, hair-free skin that improves lace wig adhesion by 45% and allows for undetectable hairline blending
- Budget-friendly at under $10 with protective guards that prevent nicks, making it beginner-friendly for wig preparation
- Versatile tool that also works for eyebrow shaping and general dermaplaning while improving makeup application
- Requires frequent use and blade replacements as results only last about 10 days and blades dull quickly
- May cause stubble regrowth and isn’t suitable for sensitive skin types without patch testing
- Doesn’t provide long-lasting results like professional waxing and requires proper aftercare to prevent irritation
7. SHAKEBAR Medium Brown Lace Tint
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Transform your lace front wig from obviously fake to naturally authentic with SHAKEBAR Medium Brown Lace Tint. This game-changing spray melts lace edges uniformly into medium to deep skin tones, eliminating that telltale lace line that screams "wig alert!"
The fast-drying, sulfate-free formula won’t irritate your scalp or damage delicate lace fibers. Simply spray from 6-8 inches away before installation, let dry for five minutes, and watch your hairline disappear like magic. Your secret’s safe!
Best For: People with medium to deep skin tones looking to seamlessly blend lace front wigs with their natural hairline for an undetectable, professional-looking install.
- Fast-drying, sulfate-free formula that won’t irritate sensitive scalp or damage delicate lace fibers
- Creates seamless blending that eliminates visible lace lines for a natural-looking hairline
- Easy application with even spray coverage from 6-8 inches away, drying in just five minutes
- Sprayer can be difficult to control and may dispense product too aggressively
- Color may appear darker than expected and might not match all skin tones perfectly
- Watery consistency may require multiple layers and setting spray for longer-lasting results
8. Brown Wig Caps for Women
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Like a trusty shield protecting your natural hair, brown wig caps create the perfect foundation for flawless wig application. These stretchy nylon wonders prevent hair entanglement while securing your wig in place.
You’ll love how the breathable mesh design reduces scalp irritation by keeping things cool underneath. The brown color blends seamlessly with darker skin tones for an invisible barrier.
Perfect for cosplay adventures or daily wear, these caps make wig styling foolproof and comfortable.
Best For: Women with darker skin tones who want a secure, comfortable foundation for wearing wigs during cosplay, performances, or daily styling.
- Stretchy nylon material provides breathable comfort while preventing hair entanglement underneath wigs
- Brown color blends seamlessly with darker skin tones for an invisible, natural-looking base
- Versatile pack of 12 caps suitable for various occasions from Halloween parties to wedding events
- Sizing inconsistency may cause caps to be too tight or loose for some head shapes and sizes
- Limited to brown color only, making them unsuitable for women with lighter skin tones
- Thin material may occasionally peek through wigs, requiring adjustments during wear
9. Red Kiss Edge Laying Scarf
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Your wig’s edges deserve better than a messy finish! The Red Kiss Edge Control Scarf transforms unruly baby hairs into sleek perfection with its premium satin material.
At 60 inches long and 4 inches wide, it gently secures edges without causing breakage or irritation. Available in stunning patterns like leopard and zebra, this $4-8 miracle worker maintains hold for up to 8 hours.
Hand wash only to preserve its silky texture and durability.
Best For: Wig wearers and natural hair enthusiasts looking for an affordable, gentle way to lay edges and secure baby hairs without causing breakage or irritation.
- Premium satin material reduces friction and hair breakage by up to 80% compared to cotton alternatives
- Maintains secure edge hold for up to 8 hours, even in humid conditions
- Available in multiple stylish patterns and colors at an affordable $4-8 price point
- Narrow 4-inch width may not be suitable for wrapping entire head or larger coverage needs
- No stretch in the material makes it difficult to achieve a tight, secure fit
- Hand wash only requirement adds extra maintenance compared to machine-washable alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best hair care tips for wigs?
Your gorgeous locks deserve absolutely royal treatment!
Wash synthetic wigs every 8-10 wears with wig-specific shampoo and lukewarm water. Always air-dry on a wig stand to maintain shape and prevent damage from heat styling tools.
How to care for a wig?
Wash your synthetic wig every 8-10 wears with special wig shampoo and lukewarm water. Don’t scrub harshly—gently swish it around. Always air-dry on a wig stand to keep its shape and store properly.
How do I choose a wig?
Finding your perfect match feels like shopping for jeans – you’ll try several before discovering "the one." Start by measuring your head circumference, then consider your face shape, lifestyle, and color preferences. Think **comfort first, style second.
What is a wig care routine?
A proper routine keeps your wig looking fresh and lasting longer. You’ll wash synthetic wigs every 8-10 wears with special shampoo, condition human hair pieces after each cleaning, and always air-dry on stands to maintain shape perfectly.
How do you fit a wig properly?
Roughly 70% of new wig wearers struggle with proper fit initially. You’ll measure your head circumference just above your ears and eyebrows, then adjust the wig’s internal straps and clips to create a snug but comfortable seal that won’t slip during daily activities.
How do you care for a synthetic wig?
Clean your synthetic wig every 8-10 wears with cold water and wig-specific shampoo. Avoid scrubbing harshly—it’ll cause tangles! Gently pat dry, then place on a wig stand away from sunlight to maintain shape and color.
How do you take care of a wig for beginners?
Wash your synthetic wig every 8-10 wears with cold water and wig shampoo. Gently squeeze—don’t scrub! Air dry on a wig stand to keep its shape perfect.
How to keep wigs looking fresh?
Store your wig on a stand between wears to maintain its shape. **Keep it away from heat sources and direct sunlight to prevent damage.
Use wig-specific shampoo every 8-10 wears, rinse with cool water, and air-dry completely.
Do you have to take your wig off every night?
A good night’s sleep is worth its weight in gold! **Yes, you should remove your wig nightly.
**
Leaving it on restricts airflow and can cause scalp irritation, odor buildup, and wig damage from friction while sleeping.
What should you not use on a wig?
You shouldn’t use regular shampoo, conditioner, or heat styling tools on your wig. Skip harsh chemicals, alcohol-based products, and brushes when it’s wet – these can damage fibers and ruin your investment!
Conclusion
Like a well-oiled machine, mastering wig care tips for beginners becomes second nature once you’ve got the right foundation. You’re now equipped with essential products and pro techniques that’ll keep your wig looking fabulous.
Remember to measure accurately, prep your natural hair properly, and choose quality care products. Whether you’re rocking human hair or synthetic styles, consistent maintenance makes all the difference.
Your wig journey doesn’t have to be stressful—just follow these steps and you’ll be styling like a pro in no time.
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12423-alopecia-areata
- https://media.cancercare.org/publications/original/311-fs_synthetic_wig_care.pdf
- https://www.juliahair.com/blog/6-mistakes-avoid-washing-human-hair-wigs/
- https://www.uhn.ca/PrincessMargaret/PatientsFamilies/Specialized_Program_Services/Wig_Salon_Accessories_Boutique/Documents/Instructions_Synthetic.pdf
- https://www.trulyyou.ca/your-wig-care-guide-synthetic-vs-human-hair
