Styling a Heat-Friendly Synthetic
Heat-friendly synthetic wigs have become the preferred fiber for many. They can be heat styled and have less shine than regular synthetic so they look and feel more like real hair.
The trade-off is they require more care than regular synthetics, especially for shoulder-length or longer styles. Fibers are affected by friction caused by rubbing on your clothing, shoulders, etc.
Regular maintenance with heat will keep your heat-friendly wig or topper looking good. How long they will last depend on the length, care provided, tools & products used, etc.
Here is a list of basics you will need for styling.
Hot tools: Flat iron, curling iron (only use tools that let you dial in the temperature). Keep heat below 300 degrees. Always use a heat protectant when applying heat to protect the fibers.
Products: Amazon links to products we like are below. Many of these we carry in stock at the salon as well.
Simply Stylin’ Lite Silicone Spray
Raquel Welch Thermal Protectant Spray
Combs: Only use a wide tooth comb to detangle and brush.
Canvas Head & Tripod: You will need a canvas head & tripod to use for styling off your head. Before styling, use T-pins (should come with the canvas head) to pin your wig at the velvet ear tabs and nape. Never pin anywhere else. Do not get a canvas head larger than 21″ so you don’t stretch your wig.
Canvas Head on Amazon
Tripod on Amazon
Styling a straight style is much easier than styling a wavy or curly style. There’s definitely a learning-curve with heat styling, but after you’ve done it a couple of times you’ll get the hang or it. How often you need to do this depends on length, style, lifestyle, and general upkeep… it could be every few wears or just occasionally.
Basic things to remember:
- Gently detangle you wig or topper using a wide-tooth comb.
- Wash your wig or topper & let air dry.
- Work in small sections & use a heat protectant.
- Don’t use heat above 300 degrees.
- Don’t let things get too bad before you do the maintenance.
Below are a few videos from online Wig Gurus that closely align with the system we use in-house at our wig salon.
How To Style a Straight Heat-Friendly Synthetic Wig or Topper
How to Curl & Straighten a Heat-Friendly Wig or Topper