Undercover Hair Care: How to Protect and Maintain Your Natural Hair While Rocking Wigs

It’s no secret we’re all about fabulous wigs. They’re fun, versatile, and hella cute — what’s not to love? But hold up, sis, don't get too caught up in the magic! Let’s not forget about our crowning glory: our natural hair.

Even if you rock a wig on the daily, that doesn’t mean you should ignore your natural tresses. In fact, regularly wearing a wig is even more reason to give your hair some much-needed attention. And guess what? When your natural hair is happy, it shows. Your wigs will fit better, look more stunning, and you’ll feel like an absolute queen. Plus, you’ll still be shining when the wig comes off.

7 Ways to Protect Your Natural Hair Under Wigs

1. Prepare your hair for wig wear

A good foundation is the key to any successful long-term relationship — especially the one between you and your wig. Having a solid hair-washing routine sets the stage for proper wig installation (and keeps your natural tresses clean and healthy, of course.)

Detangling prevents breakage and minimizes hair loss. After washing and conditioning, apply a detangling product to damp hair to add slip. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently comb through any knots, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Shop the products: Our No-Drama Detangling Spray has a nutrient-rich formula that strengthens hair as it detangles. For thick, kinky hair, the No-Fuss Curl Detangler works wonders. Packed with antioxidants, essential minerals, and nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, it thickens strands and stimulates hair growth while removing knots.

2. Give your scalp some extra love

A healthy scalp is a happy one. Regularly cleanse your scalp, especially if you wear wigs frequently, using a gentle clarifying or sulfate-free shampoo to remove extra gunk from wig adhesives, styling products, or sweat. Rinse thoroughly to prevent any product buildup that could clog hair follicles.

Gently massage a light oil or scalp treatment into your scalp to promote circulation and hydration. This will help alleviate dryness, itchiness, and flakiness, leaving your scalp refreshed and rejuvenated. Remember, a little goes a long way.

P.S. Opt for wig styles that don't stress out your hairline. And be mindful of your scalp during removal: Take your time, carefully loosen any adhesives or clips, and gently lift the wig away from your scalp.

Shop the products: The Knot My Problem duo features two of our most popular detangling products — but that’s not their only superpower. They’re both made with coconut and argan oils, which work to improve scalp health.

3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

While wigs offer the freedom to experiment with various styles, it's essential to preserve our hair's natural texture underneath. We cherish those beautiful coils, curls, kinks, and waves! Hydrating products help maintain our hair's natural pattern, ensuring it remains resilient and full of life.

Invest in a high-quality leave-in conditioner that suits your hair type and texture. Apply a generous amount to damp hair, starting from the mid-lengths to the ends. Work the product through your strands with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb for a more even distribution.

Hair oils are great for nourishing and adding shine to your natural hair. After applying your leave-in conditioner, seal in the moisture by applying a small amount of hair oil to the ends of your hair. Focus on the driest areas to lock in hydration, and wait until the oil has been fully absorbed before putting on your wig.

Shop the products: Step aside, Beyoncé. There's a new triple threat in town. In addition to amplifying curls and eliminating frizz, our Supreme Sculpting Crème acts as a leave-in conditioner. It's formulated with everything our hair loves: shea butter, argan and jojoba oil, and vitamin E.

4. Keep up regular maintenance

Out of sight, out of mind? Not in this case. Sleeping on your usual hair maintenance routine creates some serious drama. Wearing a wig over dirty hair not only leads to scalp issues, but it can also cause your hair to get smelly. Wash that hair regularly to keep it fresh and free from any product buildup.

And honey, don’t ghost your hairdresser. Although your hair will be tucked under a wig, you should get a trim every six to eight weeks to snip those pesky split ends. This will stop them from traveling up the strand and causing unnecessary chaos.

5. Use braiding and protective styling

When you wear a wig directly over loose hair, its weight and friction can cause tension on your natural strands. Protective styles like braids, loose cornrows, and flat twists shield your hair from direct exposure to wig adhesives, glues, and friction-inducing materials. 

By creating a flat foundation with braids or protective styles, you distribute the wig's weight evenly across your scalp, reducing the risk of pulling and stress on your natural hair. They also allow for a smoother and more comfortable fit.

6. Wear a wig cap

A wig cap creates a stable foundation for your wig, making sure it stays put throughout the day. Not only that, but it also acts as a shield, preventing direct contact between the wig and your natural hair. This protection helps reduce friction, tangling, and potential damage caused by the wig rubbing against your strands.

When selecting a wig cap, consider the material, construction, stretch, and size. Choose a breathable fabric with an open structure to create more airflow and increase circulation.

Shop the products: Our brand-new Professional HD Stocking Wig Cap is made with a stretchy, durable, and breathable fabric for maximum comfort and protection.

7. Take regular breaks

Your natural hair deserves some time in the spotlight, too. Schedule wig-free days and let those tresses breathe, baby. This gives time for sensitive areas to recover from the pulling and tugging of wearing a wig. It’s like hitting the “reset” button for our precious crowns. (Don’t forget to properly clean and store your wigs when you’re not wearing them.)

Shop the products: Entering your natural hair era? For bouncy, defined, and frizz-free curls, say hello to Foaming Curl Control. This non-flaky, foaming solution is the ultimate product for our curly-haired queens.

Wig Love and Natural Hair Care

No matter how often you wear a wig, it’s important to take care of what your mama gave you. Our natural hair is a reflection of our identity, culture, and personal style — and it deserves just as much attention and care as the wigs we adore. It’s all about that balance!