Chrysalis Custom Hair

Wear A Wig With Optune

CCHAdmin — Mon, 15 May 2023 20:57:34 +0000

Wear a Wig with Optune by Novocure

Optune by Novocure is a wearable device worn on the head. It is used to inhibit tumor growth in patients diagnosed with glioblastoma. You can wear a wig over the device without doing any damage or interrupting the mechanisms of the unit.

What is Optune and How Does It Work?

The medical device. also known as NovoTTF-100A, is used to treat some forms of brain tumors, such as glioblastoma (GBM) and anaplastic astrocytoma. Only medical professional can determine if an Optune is right for you.

Now, you may be wondering how this works. The Optune uses arrays of electrodes that are positioned on a freshly shaved scalp to produce low-intensity, alternating electric fields to the brain. These electric fields are designed to inhibit or reduce the growth of tumors by interfering with the division of cancer cells. It can even kill existing cancer cells.

The electric fields function by obstructing the process of cell division. In contrast to healthy cells, cancer cells divide more quickly, and these electric fields are created to impede cell division. Only patients who have had their tumor, or most of it, removed can wear this device. It is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy called temozolomide (TMZ). It must be worn on a clean shaved head. If hair gets in the way the electric fields will not penetrate the scalp.

How to Use the Device

Wondering how to use the device? It consists of 4 arrays of electrodes that attach to the head with adhesive similar to a band aid. To use the device a battery pack worn in a bag similar to a purse. These power the arrays though a series of connective wires which are secured into a bundle. The wires, once hidden under a custom wig for cancer patients, is typically not visible. The arrays often do come down onto the forehead area but if worn with a cancer wig, particularly with bangs, it can be completely hidden.

Is Optune Comfortable to Wear?

Most users report that wearing Optune is comfortable to wear. Part of the treatment involves using arrays in alternating patterns. This makes sure that the entire brain is getting treated by the electric fields. In turn, it also helps with comfort for the wearer by placing adhesive on different parts of the head. Typically, it is worn throughout most of the day. Wearers are allowed with brief interruptions for tasks such as bathing. Your medical professional can counsel you as to how many hours of wear per day are necessary.

Jailene’s Experience Wearing Optune with a Cancer Wig

The following is an interview with Jailene, a cancer fighter who wears both an Optune device as well as a Chrysalis custom wig for cancer over it. Her custom human hair wig was purchased in early July of 2022. The following interview was conducted on September 15, 2022. We thank Jailene and her mom for allowing Chrysalis to use the interview for the purposes of educating more people about the use of the device worn with a cancer wig.

Jailene: I was diagnosed in early 2022 at age 24 with an aggressive type of brain cancer called glioblastoma (GBM). I am being treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. My doctors are amazing! They got 95% of the tumor when the hope was to get at least 75%.

Mom: With the chemo and radiation she has no tumor. She goes for an MRI every 3 months and for the last 2 scans there is no tumor. That’s when she started the Optune. I wanted her to have her wig ready. I want her to feel confident. Her hair is a big thing. I’ve seen her go through the process and one of the most difficult times for her was shaving her head.

She’s really happy with the wig. She donated her hair to Wigs for Kids as soon as she picked it up.

Jailene: They said you can shave your or just don’t do it. I didn’t want to shave because of that insecurity for me. I’ve always had long hair… so to not have any hair? I never even want to cut it below my shoulders. When you think of someone without hair – it becomes a disability that’s visible. It knocked me down a few notches. It was like ok it’s happening. It’s here. I have to deal with it. So having a wig, I can hide it a little. I have hair- I mean technically it IS MY HAIR. I got comfortable with it and it made me feel a little better. When didn’t have the wig on I felt like all eyes were on me. I caught someone staring dead at me. It’s like STOP STARING AND JUST ASK!

It’s easier to just ask me than you just sit there and look at me. Then I feel more nervous.

Interviewer: Is it uncomfortable? Is it hot to wear the Optune with a wig for cancer patients?

Jailene: It feels fine. It’s just stickers!

When I am outside with the Optune my head starts to sweat. It sets off an alarm and shuts off the unit. One day it was hot but I wore the wig. The wig covered the arrays and pushed down on the arrays. The alarm didn’t go off all day! The wig kept it from overheating and the sticky parts didn’t lift. The wig kept the Optune cool so it didn’t shut off.

I have had a pretty normal summer (2022) I went to Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, swimming, the Wisconsin dells with my boyfriend.

Even the smallest things matter to me – just making memories.

A Note from Chrysalis Custom Hair

Chrysalis Custom Hair is grateful to Jailene and her family for sharing their story with us. We have created many wigs for women wearing this device. If you have questions or need more information, please contact us.

The post Wear A Wig With Optune first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Ultimate Guide: How To Put On A Wig

Jonathan — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:36:55 +0000

How To Put A Wig On? (2022)

Everyday we meet women who are just learning how to a put on a wig for the first time. At Chrysalis Custom Hair, the #1 Chicago Wigs Store for women with hair loss, we count it as an honor to help new wig wearers perfect the art of putting on their wigs. Whether you're wearing custom wigs for style or because of hair loss caused by uncontrollable circumstances, we're here to help you look (and feel) amazing with luxurious hair that magnifies your inner beauty. Learning how to put on a wig is valuable for every woman to learn because it allows you to change up your look as often as you like, and even restore your confidence as you go through seasons of hair loss. Along the way you'll learn how to put on a wig over existing hair, as well as how to put on a wig over thinning hair or a balding head--maximizing your comfort so that it feels like your own head of hair. Let's get started with the Ultimate Guide: How To Put On A Wig!

What You Need To Get Started Putting On A Wig

First things first, you'll want to gather some important wig accessories to get started with the process of putting on your wig.
1) A Human Hair Wig or Synthetic Wig
2) A Mirror
3) A Wig Cap - We recommend a fishnet wig liner to flatten existing hair, and a nylon wig cap (or no wig cap) for very thin hair or a balding head.
4) A Wig Brush
5) *Optional: A Can of Leave-In Wig Conditioner or Wig Conditioning Spray

Begin By Flattening Your Existing Hair and Putting On A Wig Cap

Armed with your choice of wigs, and necessary wig accessories, begin by flattening your existing hair by slicking it back or collecting it with bobby pins in a mesh wig liner. Note: if you're bald or have very thin hair we recommend putting on a nylon wig cap or wearing no wig cap at all (with uber-comfortable wigs like those at Chrysalis Custom Hair). You'll want your hair and head to be as smooth as possible, which allows your wig to sit naturally on your head.

Apply The Wig On Your Head

With the mirror before you, place the wig in your hands (or if you're not concerned about distressing the style, on a table). The front of the wig should be facing towards you, with the nape of the wig farthest away from you. Now, take the wig by the sides and aim the front of your forehead towards the front of the wig, scooping it up and back as you apply the wig.

How To Adjust A Wig

With the wig applied to your head, it's now time to adjust the wig. The first thing you'll adjust is the front hairline. You want the wig's hairline to begin where your natural hairline begins. Grab the ear tabs and lift the wig as you adjust the front of the wig to align it with your natural hairline. You can also adjust the wig by gently taking the base of the wig in two fingers on each hand and positioning the wig by sliding it back as needed. Note: if you don't know where your hairline would naturally begin, that's okay, simply use your fingers to measure starting at your brow bone (brow line). Place 3-to-4 fingers up the forehead to experiment with the best placement of the front of the wig along your hairline.

Ensure That Your Wig Is On Straight

Next, it's important to make sure that the wig is on straight. Locate the front ear tabs and hold your fingers horizontally to parallel them with your ears, as you look at your wig in the mirror. This will quickly show you if the wig is on straight, if one side is higher than the other, or if one side of the wig is further back in space.

Perfect The Style of Your Wig

With the wig applied, straightened, and firmly in place, it's time to perfect the style of your wig hair. You can now create your part for a human hair wig, or enjoy the already chosen part for a synthetic wig. If needed, take your wig brush and using the bottom row of teeth gently brush flat against the wig to smooth out the hair. Use the wig brush to guide the hair into the intended style. Note: sometimes wig hair that is tucked under or flipped out needs to be re-guided into the right direction by your wig brush. Now, you can piece out the wig with your fingers to break apart the hair and make it look natural.

Use A Leave In Conditioner or Finishing Spray To Complete Your Look

Once you're happy with your style you can use a leave in conditioner for wigs or finishing spray for wigs to complete your look. You can either mist it over your hair, or preferably, mist it into your hand and piece out the wig just a little bit more.

How To Put On A Wig From Beginner To Pro

You've now completed putting on your wig, and you're ready for a great hair day! Of course, if you ever need a resource in Chicago for cancer wigs, alopecia wigs, remy wigs, and the best wigs for women's hair loss, don't hesitate to call us. Hopefully, you feel like you've officially moved from beginner to pro, and you'll always have this ultimate guide for how to put on a wig to help you, if you forget a step.

The post Ultimate Guide: How To Put On A Wig first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Barbecuing in a Wig – Not a Good Idea!

CCHAdmin — Tue, 17 May 2022 03:27:48 +0000

Barbecuing in a Wig – Not a Good Idea!

If you wear a wig due to alopecia, cancer treatment, or thinning hair you may be wondering if barbecuing in a wig is going to present a problem. It depends on the kind of wig you wear. In this blog we are referring strictly to synthetic wigs.

Synthetic wigs are made from plastic which may contain acrylic fibers, polyester, or polyvinyl. When we at Chrysalis Custom Hair shape a synthetic wig we use a special steam machine. We gently heat the fibers and bend them into the desired shape. We always explain to guests to NEVER use any sort of heat on their synthetic wig or it will surely melt. Even washing in hot water can change the shape. Now, think about how hot a barbecue needs to be to cook that big juicy steak!

You know how when you open the barbecue you get a big blast of heat in your face? That blast is usually at least 350 degrees. We know that synthetic wigs can tolerate ZERO heat. Without doubt your wig will singe or melt if you barbecue in a wig!

Solutions

Have someone else do the grilling. To avoid cooking your wig along with your steak have someone else put it on and take it off the grill
Stand off to the side. This one is tricky and risky. Depending on the size and type of grill you’re using you may be able to stand an arms length away and get the top opened without damaging your beautiful wig.
Wear a hat or scarf. Wearing a scarf or hat will help the fibers not come directly into contact with the heat. If even one strand is sticking out it will likely burn.
Even pulling it back will not ensure that the front won’t burn.

The best way to grill that steak and have your wig stay intact and lovely is to sit back with a cool beverage and let someone else do the cooking.

The post Barbecuing in a Wig – Not a Good Idea! first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Highlight Wig: How to Color a Wig

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 21:31:59 +0000

Highlight Wig

Chrysalis Custom Hair creates a custom highlight wig for women with hair loss. Highlight wigs are common for women who want to update their look with custom wigs. And though nothing builds confidence more than having a fresh hairstyle, there are a few things you should know before you highlight a wig at home. Read on to learn how to color a wig, which is different from coloring naturally growing hair or schedule a consultation today.

Beware: To Highlight a Wig Is Not the Same as Highlighting Your Own Hair

Wigs can consist of multiple people’s hair. Because making a wig takes six bundles of hair, the wig hair must have the bacteria and oils removed, and initially stripped of the multiple colors. Next, the collected hair is colored with one unifying color so that the color is consistent all over the wig. Because of this, if you try to highlight a wig like you would your own hair it might not highlight evenly or even may damage the wig irreparably.

Highlight a wig is not the same as hair growing on your head. Your boilogical hair can withstand highlights because it is constantly growing. The oils from your scalp keep it moisturized. Natural oils do not exist in wig hair. Essentially, they begin to deteriorate as soon as you begin to wear them. If you are trying to add coloring agents to a wig that has been deteriorating over time you may end up with uneven color. The color may not take or may burn the hair causing it to break off. Synthetic hair is plastic. It will melt if you color it.

Preserving Your Wig

A wig will last a long time with proper care. Bleach is used to create highlights Once a wig has been in sunlight, exposed to the elements, and washed a number of times it should not be highlighted. The hair gets dry from being out in the elements.The process of highlighting an older wig could damage the hair. The best thing you can do for your older cancer wig is to give it a deep conditioning treatment to moisturize your chemo wig and enjoy the color that it is.

Know Your Options

When you want to highlight a wig, a professional wig expert can do it in a way that preserves the beauty of the strands. It is better to start with a new wig to avoid adding damage to already-worn out hair. This way, you will have a fresh, updated look, and you can always use your older wig as a spare.

At Chrysalis Custom Hair, we know how important it is to always look your best. Let us help you create a gorgeous style that makes you smile by contacting us today.

The post Highlight Wig: How to Color a Wig first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Human Hair Wig -Can My Regular Stylist Cut It?

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 15:56:37 +0000

Where Can I Get My Wig Cut Near Me?

At Chrysalis Custom Hair, one of our frequently asked questions is “can my regular stylist cut my wig?” with a follow up question “where can I get my wig cut?” Human hair wigs seem just like your regular biological hair, and it would makes sense to think that your trusted hair stylist would be able to cut it. However, there are many components of naturally growing hair that do not apply to a custom wig, and that’s why it is essential to have a professional wig specialist cut your wig. Making the transition from your real hair to custom wigs can be a tough one, with new ways to take care of your wigs. We’ll do everything within our power to make it the best transition possible, and part of this transition is having a trusted partner, usually a wig maker, wig store, or wig specialist cut and style your wigs. Read more to learn about why regular stylists may not be your best option for cutting and styling your wig or schedule a consultation to cut your wig today.

A Wig Expert is Best Suited to Cut a Wig

We often hear from prospective clients, “I want to take my new human hair wig to my stylist and I want her to cut it .” This makes sense, considering you want your wig to look just like your natural hair. You have trusted your stylist for years with your hair and he or she knows exactly how you like it. You can trust us to cut your cancer wig exactly how you want it and fit it perfectly. The one and only thing we, the Chrysalis Team, do is custom wigs. Thus, everyone on the team is a seasoned expert in cutting, coloring, and styling wigs.

Cutting a human hair wig is a totally different ball game from cutting biological hair and our stylists are experts. We recommend letting us cut your wig. Each wig is made to support different styles. Long hair wigs are made to support the weight of long hair. Pixie wigs are designed to look cute short. So, only a wig stylist knows how to cut a wig properly. Also, if your stylist makes a mistake on your wig it is not going to grow back.

So when it comes to cutting, coloring and styling your new custom wig from Chrysalis Custom Hair, contact us today and let us fashion a wig for you that will make you feel confident and beautiful. Everyday is a good hair day in a Chrysalis Custom Hair wig!

Call us today to schedule your consultation (by appointment only).

The post Human Hair Wig -Can My Regular Stylist Cut It? first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Wig Brush – What Kind Should I Use?

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 15:19:38 +0000

What Wig Brush Should I Use?

What kind of wig brush should I use? Chrysalis Custom Hair highlights the important aspects of caring for custom wigs like a cancer wig, including brushing, washing, and styling. If you have recently purchased a wig, you probably have questions about how to properly care for it. One of the questions that you may ask is, what kind of wig brushes should I use? Read on and we’ll help you learn how to brush a wig or you can schedule a consultation today!

An everyday hairbrush is not the best choice for your wig. Wigs need to be treated gently, and the brush that you would use for your natural hair may tear the cap or pull out the hairs of your wig. Instead, we suggest using a wide tooth comb (see our youtube video for how to brush a human hair wig with a comb above). If you have a human hair wig, you can try a flat paddle version with pin teeth as well. Many brushes resemble a paddle with pin teeth but not all are compatible with use on a hair piece. A paddle brush that has straight teeth and has little balls on the ends of the teeth will cause breakage. A brush that’s teeth are in a zig zag pattern will also damage the wig. The brush that is designed for wigs will not cause breakage.

How to Brush a Wig to Keep it Looking it’s Best?

To make sure that your wig stays looking beautiful and undamaged, keep these tips in mind:

Do not brush a wet wig. This is especially true for human hair wigs. Hair is weakest when wet, so it is best to let it air dry before brushing.
Use your wig brush and use a motion from the bottom up. Meanwhile, it is important not to get too close to the cap, as the teeth of a comb or pins from a hair brush can snag the cap and tear it. Instead, start at the ends of the hair and work your way up.
Use smooth, gentle strokes. Using too much force will cause hair to fall out. Try not to rush; if you take your time and are careful with your wig, you’ll see great results.

By using the right styling techniques and treating your wig with care, your wig will not only look great, but it will last a long time also. For any other questions about your wig, feel free to contact us for expert advice on wig care, fitting, and styling.

Call us today to schedule your consultation (by appointment only).

The post Wig Brush – What Kind Should I Use? first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Applying Makeup In a Wig

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 14:35:48 +0000

Makeup Before or After Wig?

Applying makeup in a wig can be a bit confusing but hopefully our tips and tricks will help you figure out the best way of doing this.

As you adjust to wearing a wig for the first time or during cancer treatment, you may wonder how your wig is going to affect your makeup routine. Do you put on makeup on first or put on your wig first, and then do your makeup? Thankfully, your makeup routine doesn’t have to change much. Chrysalis Custom Hair will help point out a few things you need to keep in mind or you can call us directly to schedule an appointment.

Put your makeup on before your wig

You can apply your makeup the same way you did before you began your cancer treatment. Begin by applying an oil free moisturizer followed by a primer. Allow the primer to set for at least 15 minutes before applying an oil-free foundation. If you normally use a bronzer make sure to not apply at the top of your forehead or the lace may look very dark. After you have finished applying your makeup, carefully put on your wig. For a more natural appearance, we recommended using pressed powder in a shade that matches your skin tone. You can carefully sweep the powder over the lace line, where the lace front meets your forehead. Use a powder brush to gently blend the powder into the lace. When you notice the lace front has begun to darken, it’s time to clean it. Watch our youtube vlog post for further instructions on how to clean your wig.

Choose your beauty products carefully

Though you won’t have to change how you apply makeup when wearing a wig , you may have to change the products that you use. Makeup products are often filled with harsh chemicals. As you go through cancer treatment, you may experience changes that cause your skin to be more sensitive than it was before. To avoid irritation, choose makeup and moisturizers that are allergen free. This may mean replacing your favorite products temporarily. Check to see if your favorite brands offer solutions for sensitive skin. Often you can find products that provide the same appearance and quality with a more gentle formula.

Applying makeup when wearing a wig doesn’t need to be difficult. Your makeup routine doesn’t have to go through a major overhaul just because you are wearing a wig. If you have questions about how to put on your wig with makeup or need more information about getting a real hair wig or synthetic hair wig, visit one of our stylists at Chrysalis Custom Hair in Elmhurst, IL.

The post Applying Makeup In a Wig first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Argan Oil on a Wig

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 14:07:54 +0000

Argan Oil For Human Hair Wigs

At Chrysalis Custom Hair, we recommend you use Argan Oil on your human hair wig to condition it. Because your wig does not receive moisture from the natural oils on your scalp, the way that your natural hair would, custom wigs can become dry and stiff with the change in seasons. We recommend argan oil without additives (that can damage the wig hair). Read on to learn more or schedule a consultation today!

Argan: The Best Oil For Human Hair Wigs

Argan oil offers many benefits for human hair wigs. This lightweight oil nourishes and strengthens hair, protects it from sun and heat damage and allows the wig hair to retain its body. It is also chock full of good stuff including antioxidants, essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. You can use Argan oil on your wig regardless of whether it is a straight hair wig, a wavy wig or a curly wig. As you’re looking for the right argan oil, avoid argan oil with additives that can damage the hair.

The brand of Argan oil DOES matter. Some Argan oils have tint or other additives that may discolor your wig. While this color may not affect your biological hair it can have disastrous results when put on a wig. At Chrysalis we carry a clear Argan based serum that moisturizes well and does not damage the hair. If you’d like to use any other Argan product, try a test area for a few days in a place that no one sees. If the hair doesn’t seem extra dry or change colors it may be alright to use on your wig. Just be sure not to use Argan oil on your synthetic hair wig.

Can You Use Argan Oil On Synthetic Wigs?

We do not recommend using Argan oil on your synthetic wig. To care for your synthetic wig you want to wash it with synthetic wig shampoo and wig conditioner, selecting products specifically formulated for wig fibers. Your synthetic wig can be washed once-a-week or approximately every 7-10 wears. After washing and conditioning your wig, let it air dry by hanging it loosely on a wig stand, but avoid hanging it on a mannequin head while it dries, as this can stretch your wig cap. To maintain the shine, style, and longevity of your synthetic wig you can also brush your wig, and use a non-oil shine. We also help our clients prepare to care for their synthetic wig during our Chicago wigs consultation.

Follow these simple steps to use Argan oil on your wig:

Pour a pea-sized amount of oil in one hand and rub hands together until you have an even distribution on both
Begin two inches from the cap and work your way down, apply oil by running your hands through the hair. Never apply oil directly to the cap! This can cause slippage in the knots and could result in hair loss
Apply oil about once every few days or when you notice the hair becoming fluffy or difficult to manage.

You should never apply coconut oil to your wig. While coconut oil is wonderful for many purposes, it can ruin your wig. It can make the knots in your wig slick and result in pieces falling out. You should not apply coconut oil to your scalp at night if you are planning to wear a wig. It can seep into your pores and get into the wig the next time you wear it.

Schedule a complimentary consultation at Chrysalis Custom Hair today to learn how to use Argan oil on your wig and the other ways to take the best care of your beautiful new hair.

Call us today to schedule your consultation (by appointment only ).

The post Argan Oil on a Wig first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Tuck Your Wig Behind Your Ears

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:57:06 +0000

Can You Tuck Your Wig Behind Your Ears?

Yes. You can tuck your custom wig behind your ears. Since you will likely wear your wig on a regular basis, you may be wondering if you can tuck your wig behind your ears? Will it retain the natural look that helps ensure no one will know you are wearing a wig? At Chrysalis Custom Hair in Chicago, we know that comfort is just as important as appearance when it comes to wearing your chemo wig. Tuck your hair behind your ears can be a lifelong habit that does not need to change. For women who are physically active, wearing your wig swept away from your face may be preferable, especially during workouts.

How To Tuck Your Wig Behind Your Ears

You can tuck your wig behind your ears regardless of whether it is a human hair wig or synthetic hair wig. If you would like, our wig specialists can cut tiny baby hairs into your human hair wig where it rests near your ears, creating an even more natural look when the hair is pushed back in any way. You can tuck using a cute headband, sweep it into an elegant updo or twist it into edgy braids without fear! You should never use a clip or hair band on a synthetic wig. However, there is no harm in wearing the hair looped behind your ears.

Advances in wig construction and materials have ushered in the era of the ultra versatile, ultra natural wigs. The ability to tuck your wig behind your ears stems in part from this modernization. These developments include lace front caps which make it look like the individual hairs are growing right from your forehead. So when you think about getting a wig, do not allow perceptions based on history to limit your imagination. Schedule a consultation with Chrysalis Custom Hair in Elmhurst, Illinois today to see the many options available to you.

Call us today to schedule your consultation (by appointment only).

The post Tuck Your Wig Behind Your Ears first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.

Wig Shampoo

CCHAdmin — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:43:29 +0000

Wig Shampoo vs Regular Shampoo on a Wig

At Chrysalis Custom Hair we help wig owners care for their custom wigs, and one of the first areas is using the appropriate shampoo. The question is often asked, “do I need to use wig shampoo or can I use regular shampoo on my wig?” It is very important to use wig shampoo solely for your wigs. Wig shampoo washes wigs just like upholstery cleaner cleans upholstery. You wouldn’t use hair products on your sofa. Do not use anything other than wig shampoo on a wig. Baby shampoo is designed to strip away at the oils that build up on a baby’s head. Neither baby shampoo nor regular shampoo are designed for use on a wig.

Do I Need to Use Special Products on my Wig?

Yes, you need to use a wig shampoo for your synthetic wig and for your human hair wig. What will happen if I use shampoo bought for my natural growing hair on my wig? Bottom line: If you decide to use regular shampoo on your wig, it will get very dry and brittle. Shampoo products from a drug store or big box store will have harsh chemicals additives that will damage and dry out the hair.

Your scalp produces oils constantly. That oil production keeps your scalp moist so it keeps your hair from drying out. Regular shampoo removes the oily build up from your hair. Wigs for cancer patients do not grow from your head so they do not get oily.

Synthetic hair wigs or human hair wigs are not attached to your scalp. Therefore, they do not have an oily build up. They get dirty just like your favorite sweater after wearing it a few times. Because this is environmental dirt not greasy hair, it doesn’t require the same products.

How to Wash a Wig?

Before you wash you a wig, you need to know whether it is a human hair wig or a synthetic hair wig. Watch our youtube videos on How to Wash a Synthetic Wig and How to Wash a Human Hair Wig.

Wash A Synthetic Wig

Wash a synthetic wig in cool to room temperature water. You don’t want any heat, as it may change the style of your wig. Place two cap fulls of the wig shampoo into the basin of the water container and stir it until it is mixed into the water. Now turn your wig inside out, supporting it with an open hand, and dunk your wig into the soapy water without swishing or swirling, allowing it to submerge. Then, lift your synthetic wig straight up out of the water, allowing gravity and water to pull any dirt from the wig without swirling or swishing. Repeat this six times, and on the final soak, let the water run free to remove any excess suds, before placing the wig on a towel. Remember, there is no need to scrub it or make it lather like your regular hair.

Now empty your basin of the shampoo water, and refill it with cool to room temperature water that has no shampoo in it. With clean water, repeat the dipping process until you have removed all the shampoo from the synthetic wig. Then, put two cap fulls of the wig conditioner into the basin and repeat the dipping process, followed by putting the synthetic wig back on the towel. Finally, empty the basin of conditioner water, and repeat the dipping process with clean water to remove the conditioner from the wig. This time only dip the synthetic wig 3-4 times, to leave some of the conditioner in the wig to prevent static cling.

Follow the video for carefully drying the synthetic wig and combing it out again.

Wash A Human Hair Wig

Using regular shampoo on wig can cause many problems. If you have a synthetic wig you are essentially washing a delicate fabric in a detergent made to strip oil. All the shampoo will do is strip away at the fabric. If you have a natural hair piece and use anything other than wig shampoo it will make the hair start to deteriorate or change the color. If it is a highlighted unit, regular shampoo will strip the color or make it start oxidizing and change the color. It will also make the hair in your cancer wig dry out since it does not get greasy like natural hair.

If you have already used regular shampoo it may not be too late for damage control. First, stop using these products and switch to wig shampoo immediately. Then the use of a deep conditioner might restore some of the moisture to a human hair wig. For more information about what kind of conditioners to use on your chemo wig or to make an appointment please call us.

Call us today to schedule your consultation (by appointment only).

The post Wig Shampoo first appeared on Chrysalis Custom Hair.