A beautiful black woman with a bob black  straight wig

How Long Wigs Last - Virgin vs. Synthetic

Written by: Rita Upton

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Time to read 3 min

While the durability and lifespan of wigs have improved tremendously due to advancements in the wig industry, several factors still determine their longevity. The main factor is the type of wig and your maintenance routine.

Generally, human hair wigs last longer than synthetic fiber wigs.

But how long does each of these wig types last? Take a look below.

Virgin Hair:

A virgin hair wig can last years, depending on your maintenance routine. This is because they are made from natural human hair, are not chemically processed, and still have the cuticles intact.

However, since the hair is no longer attached to the scalp, it's not receiving the nutrients and natural oils it normally would. So even virgin hair wigs will eventually begin to lose the vibrance they once had.

We at Hair Diamondz are proud of our Virgin Hair Wigs. We provide all textures and styles. Click HERE to see our full selection of wigs, or review our best sellers below:

Synthetic:

Synthetic wigs are made with synthetic materials. Unlike their counterparts (human hair wigs), which are made from human hair and can last for years, synthetic wigs have a shorter lifespan. They typically last between three and six months. However, this duration is not solely determined by their fiber. It's also influenced by how often you wear them, their quality, and sometimes their length. Longer wigs may experience more friction due to contact with your clothes.

Other Factors that Determine the Lifespan of a Wig

(These factors are for both human hair and synthetic wigs). 

1. Care and Maintenance

Proper care of your wig is one of the main factors in how long your wig will last.

Below are some careless mistakes we make that cut the lifespan of wigs:

  • Wearing your wig to bed.
  • Not storing it properly.
  • Use of sulfate products to wash and care for your wig.
  • Detangling your wig wrongly or using the wrong set of brushes to detangle..
brush laying on top of brown hair extensions

2. Styling

Your styling tool choices influence your wig's lifespan. Regardless of wig type, regular use of flat irons, blow dryers, and curling irons will affect it. Using heat on synthetic wigs is inadvisable, as the hair could melt, causing damage.

The best way to extend your wig's life is to minimize heat styling. Opt for creative styling tools that don't require heat. When heat is necessary for a sleek, polished look, use a heat protectant.

How Do You Prolong the Lifespan of Your Synthetic and Human Hair Wigs?


While we've mentioned the don'ts, let's discuss a few ways to keep your wigs thriving.

  1. Wash Your Wig

Keeping your wig clean and neat is essential. Wash it after every six to eight wears, but consider your lifestyle as a deciding factor. For instance, if you work out or naturally sweat a lot, you may need to wash your wigs more often. If so, research shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for wigs. Be cautious, as excessive shampooing strips the hair, and you'll need to replace the lost moisture.




picture of two bottle of shampoo and conditioner
  • Handle Your Wig with Care

There's no better way to prolong the life of your wig than handling it with care. The care you give determines how it'll look. Practice taking proper care of your wig before and after every wear. Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush to detangle, and while doing so, avoid tugging or brushing aggressively. Be sure to detangle it gently.

  • Store It Properly

To prolong the life of your wig, store it away from direct sunlight or heat. Keep it on a wig stand or inside a satin or silk wig bag. Place these bags in a cool, dry area to maintain the integrity of the fibers.

The longevity of your wig depends on its type and how well you care for it. While some wigs can last up to three years, others might only last six months. To maximize the value of your investment, follow our tips above.


Until Next Time – Bye Jewels