Wearing wigs can be a fantastic way to switch up your look, protect your hair, and give yourself a break from daily styling. But let’s be real—underneath that fabulous wig, your 4C natural hair still needs some tender loving care. So, let’s dive into how to keep your hair healthy, happy, and thriving while rocking those gorgeous wigs!

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Step by Step guide on Caring for Natural Hair When Wearing Wigs.

Preparing Your Hair Before Installing a Wig.

1. Cleanse and Condition: Start with a clean slate. Use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp and hair thoroughly. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to ensure your strands are hydrated and ready for the protective style.
   • Products to Try:
     • SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo.
     • TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask.
2. Moisturize and Seal: 4C hair thrives on moisture. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing cream to your damp hair. Seal in the moisture with a natural oil like jojoba oil or castor oil.
   • Products to Try:
     • Artnaturals Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner
     • Design Essentials Almond Butter
     • Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil
3. Protective Styling: Braiding your hair in cornrows, flat twists or twists is a great way to keep it protected under your wig. Make sure the braids are not too tight to avoid tension on your scalp and edges.
4. Scalp Care: A healthy scalp is key to healthy hair. Apply a lightweight oil to your scalp to keep it moisturized. You can also use a scalp treatment to prevent itching and flakiness.
   • Products to Try:
     • Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
     • African Pride Moisture Miracle 5 Essential Hair Oils 
     • Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp and Hair Oil
     • The Mane Choice Alpha Multi-Vitamin Scalp Nourishing Hair Growth Oil

Daily Hair Care Routine While Wearing a Wig

1. Morning Routine:
   • Moisturize: Use a water-based spray to lightly mist your braids or cornrows. This helps keep your hair hydrated.
   • Oil Your Scalp: Apply a small amount of oil to your scalp to prevent dryness.
   • Products to Try:
     • Alikay Naturals Wake Me Up Curl Refresher
     • Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Curl Refresher Spray
     • Cantu Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream
     • Aunt Jackie’s Coconut Crème Recipes Butter Crème Intensive Moisture Sealant, Leave-In Conditioning Therapy for Dry Hair
2. Night Routine:
   • Remove Your Wig: If possible, take off your wig before bed to give your scalp a break. If you’re using a wig cap, make sure it’s breathable and not too tight.
   • Moisturize: Spritz your hair with a leave-in conditioner spray before bed.
   • Protect Your Hair: Cover your braids or cornrows with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to reduce friction and retain moisture.

Weekly/ Monthly Hair Care Routine

1. Cleanse Your Scalp: Even with a protective style, your scalp can accumulate dirt and sweat. Use a gentle, water-based scalp cleanser or a diluted shampoo to clean your scalp without disrupting your braids.
   • Products to Try:
     • Cantu Root Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar
2. Deep Condition: Once a week, monthly or as needed, take down your braids and give your hair a good deep conditioning treatment. This helps to maintain moisture levels and keep your hair healthy.
   • Products to Try:
     • Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair
3. Rebraid: After deep conditioning, moisturize and seal your hair as you did before, then rebraid it for the upcoming week.

Tips for Maintaining Your Wig

1. Keep It Clean: Wash your wig regularly, especially if you wear it daily. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner designed for wigs.
   • Products to Try:
     • DeMert Wig & Weave System Shampoo for Natural and Synthetic Hair
2. Store Properly: When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
3. Avoid Excessive Heat: Limit the use of heat styling tools on your wig to prolong its lifespan.
4. Protect Your Edges: Use a wig band or wig grip to protect your edges and keep your wig in place without causing friction.

Wearing wigs can be a fantastic way to change your look and protect your 4C hair, but it’s essential to keep up with your hair care routine. With these tips and a little bit of effort, you can ensure your natural hair stays healthy and strong while you enjoy the versatility of wigs.

Until next time, keep slaying and loving your natural hair.