WIG AND TOPPER AFTER CARE

💆‍♀️ Very Important Wig & Topper Care Tips

• Don’t wash too often – every 4 to 6 weeks is usually enough. The less you wash it, the longer the longevity of your wig or topper. Overly excessive washing can dry out the hair, strip natural shine, and shorten its lifespan.

• Never soak – this will loosen knots and create tangling. Always gently wet and rinse under running lukewarm water.

• Use the right products – sulfate-free, lightweight, and nourishing formulas are best. Avoid anything containing alcohol, parabens, or heavy silicones.

• The more heat you use, the faster color will fade. Always use a heat protectant and limit frequency. Let the hair air-dry whenever possible — it creates a much softer, more natural result. Style only after it’s fully dry.

• Stay away from too many and the wrong products, especially on the base. Heavy oils, serums, or conditioners on the knots can cause shedding and loosen them over time.

• Make sure your mannequin head is not bigger than your wig or topper. This will stretch the cap and cause it to lose shape.

• Less is more! Don’t overload on conditioner, sprays, or oils. Product buildup can make the hair heavy, dull, and lifeless — and is one of the main reasons a piece starts to feel like it needs “retirement.”

• Never pull or stretch the lace. Lace is delicate — pulling or stretching can tear it or cause the knots to loosen. Handle gently when putting on or removing.

• Keep hairspray and heat away from the base. Direct heat or sticky product buildup can weaken and damage the base over time.

• In the winter, especially with longer pieces and wigs, hair may tangle by the nape due to static, scarves, and sweaters. Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray before brushing when tangly.

• Blondes need a little extra love. Light hair colors are more processed and therefore more delicate. Use hydrating masks, deep conditioning treatments, and avoid unnecessary heat to maintain softness and tone.

• Always detangle before washing. Start from the ends and gently work your way up with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush. Never brush when wet — instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently separate strands.

• Store properly. When not in use, keep your wig or topper on a mannequin head or in its box, away from direct sunlight, dust, and humidity.

• Brush with care. Hold the hair near the roots when brushing to prevent tension on the knots. Use slow, gentle strokes.
  

🌟 Additional Professional Tips

• Avoid sleeping, swimming, or showering with your wig or topper on. Friction and water exposure can cause matting, dryness, and loosened knots.

• Use cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can damage the cuticle and weaken knots.

• Deep condition every few washes. This restores hydration, especially for processed or blonde pieces.

• Use wig-friendly brushes. Stick to a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush, and always start from the ends upward.

• Protect from sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged UV exposure can fade color and dry out the hair.

• Watch for product buildup. If the hair feels sticky, heavy, or dull, it’s time for a gentle cleanse.

• Adjust washing frequency based on wear. Daily wearers may need more frequent gentle cleansing, while occasional wearers can wait longer.

• Ensure the hair is completely dry before storing. Never store damp — it can cause odor, mildew, or loosened knots.

• Be gentle with clips and combs. Open and close them carefully to avoid tearing the lace or stressing the base.

• Avoid brushing when wet. Wet hair is weaker and stretches more easily; use fingers or a wide-tooth comb instead.

• Use satin or silk pillowcases. If you ever rest or nap while wearing your piece, this reduces friction and tangling.

• Keep your styling tools at low to medium heat. High heat causes dryness and color fading over time.

• Use the right sulfate-free products and never too much.

• I prefer to use Davroe & Color Wow products.

• Gather a wide-tooth comb, wig brush, sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner, and a towel.

• Get a wig stand to put it on after washing.

• Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to gently detangle the hair, starting from the ends and working up to the roots.

• Avoid pulling/tension on the lace or silk base.

• Avoid strong water pressure that can push hair back through the lace in case of lace top constructions (lace top wigs, closed lace toppers).

• Hold the wig/topper under lukewarm running water (never hot!), allowing the water to flow in the natural direction of the hair (from roots to ends). Too hot water weakens the knots.

• How to Hold the Wig/Topper: Put your hand inside the cap and support it with your other hand to prevent the weight from causing tension on the lace.

• Do not soak or immerse the wig/topper to prevent hair inversion, tangling, and loosening knots. Soaking can loosen knots on a lace & silk base. Shampoo & conditioner can contain oils/silicones that make the knots slippery.

• Let the water pass through gently. The inside of the cap will be washed by the water & shampoo running through.

• Apply/dab a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo to your hands and gently smooth it onto the hair. Do not scrub.

• Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or applying shampoo directly to the lace or silk base.

• Avoid massaging the top of the wig/topper where the knots are tied.

• Gently apply the shampoo through the strands with downward strokes.

• Rinse well!

• Let the water run from top to bottom to carry away the shampoo. Rinse under running water, keeping the wig/topper in the same natural direction.

• Do not wring or twist the base & hair.

• Apply a small amount of conditioner mid-length to ends only, never on the base, to prevent loosening knots (which causes bald spots).

• Use your fingers to distribute the conditioner gently.

• Rinse well & thoroughly under running water.

• Wash your hands after applying conditioner before putting your hand back inside the cap.

• This prevents conditioner from transferring to the base.

• Pat excess water with a towel - do not rub. Avoid rubbing the lace top area; leave it out when hugging dry with the towel.

• Place the wig/topper on a wig stand or lay it flat on a towel to air dry.

• At this moment, I spray some Color Wow Dream Coat from a distance and never too much.

• If brushing/combing is needed, do it very gently, not directly pulling at the base, avoiding excessive tension on the lace/silk.

• If you like to blow-dry (I never do), avoid flipping the wig/topper inside out or using high heat, which can cause hair inversion.

• Air drying creates the best results and makes the hair so much softer. You will notice that the topper can become fluffy and slightly textured / wavy after it has dried, that is perfectly normal. After styling it will be back to how it was at purchase.

• If you want to change the part line of your wig/topper, do it when the hair is almost dry (damp but not soaking wet). This allows reshaping without stressing the knots. Use a rats tail comb to move the hair to the desired side. Air or blow dry to set the part line in its new position.

• Use heat protection before styling it with any curler or straightener. It can safely be trimmed, curled, straightened. I recommend a maximum temperature setting of approx. 180°c to avoid damaging the hair.

• Once dry, use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to gently detangle, starting from the ends.

• Style as desired, avoiding excessive tension on the lace/silk.

• If there's makeup on the front lace, gently remove it with micellar water.

Always dab - never rub - to avoid damaging the lace or loosening the knots.

It’s completely normal for human hair wigs, toppers and extensions to shift slightly warmer over time. On blond pieces this often shows as more yellow / brassy, and on brunettes as warmer / coppery tones. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your hairpiece, it’s simply a combination of pigment, oxidation and external factors.

Why does it happen?

• Underlying warm pigments: Cool/ashy pigments fade faster, so warmer undertones (yellow/orange/red) start showing through again.

• Oxidation & environment: Sun/UV exposure, heat styling, hard water/minerals, pollution, chlorine and salt water can all speed up color changes.

• No natural oils: A hairpiece doesn’t receive natural scalp oils (sebum), which makes it more sensitive to dryness and color shifting.

How can I slow it down?

These are the biggest “game changers” to slow down warmth:

• Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible (or wear a hat/scarf) + use UV protection for hair.

• Use as little heat as possible (flat iron/curling iron) and always apply a heat protectant when styling.

• Keep perfume, sunscreen and cosmetics away from the hair (wash your hands after applying sunscreen!). Certain ingredients can cause faster discoloration or dullness.

• Don’t wash too often and stick to a gentle, sulfate-free routine.

• With hard water/minerals: a buildup/mineral remover (for example Malibu C occasionally) can help reduce discoloration caused by mineral deposits.

What if it already looks warmer?

1) Toning shampoo (use sparingly) Think of toning as maintenance, not an everyday shampoo (occasionally) always followed by a conditioner/mask and keep it on the lengths only, stay away from the base/cap and knots.

• For blond (to reduce yellow): purple shampoo

  • Moroccanoil Blonde Perfecting Purple Shampoo

  • Davroe Blonde Senses Toning Shampoo

  • Malibu C blonde/toning option (a great extra, especially if minerals/buildup play a role)

• For brunettes (to reduce orange/copper): blue shampoo

  • Fanola No Orange can work as an “emergency brake”, but: only occasionally, leave on briefly, and always hydrate well afterwards. (Many blue shampoos are quite strong.)

2) A gentle in-between shampoo (for all colors)

• Color Wow Color Security Shampoo (ideal as a “go-to” shampoo for color retention and softness on wigs/toppers/extensions)

• Davroe Moisture Senses Shampoo
  

Professional toning at the hairdresser (definitely an option) If warmth returns or you want to refine your shade, a toner/gloss at a hairdresser can be a beautiful solution. Important: choose deposit-only (toner/gloss) and keep processing times gentle. This often gives the most natural result without over-stressing the hair. Important color rule for human hair wigs & toppers

✅ Going darker is always the safest option (deposit-only). ❌ Never bleach a hairpiece.

Bleaching is one of the fastest ways to:

• weaken the hair fiber

• cause dryness/roughness

• drastically reduce longevity and softness
  

Why Olaplex is not recommended for human hair wigs/toppers

Olaplex is designed for living hair that produces natural oils and can “recover” over time. With hairpieces it can more quickly lead to:

• a stiff/dry feel

• loss of softness and flexibility

• “protein overload”, especially with strongly pigmented products like No.4P

That’s why Olaplex is not recommended for human hair wigs/toppers.

Summary

• Less sun + UV protection

• Less heat + always use a heat protectant

• No perfume/sunscreen/cosmetics in the hair

• Gentle, sulfate-free base shampoo

• Purple/blue shampoo (not every wash)

• Toner at a hairdresser = great option

• Going darker is safe, bleaching is not

Hair grade doesn’t just affect price, it determines how the hair feels, how it moves, how it air-dries, and how much daily effort it needs to look good.

European grade

Look & feel

• Naturally fine to medium strands

• Soft, realistic movement

• Blends well with European hair types

How it air-dries

• Air-dries soft, straight with a very soft natural wave

• Not pin-straight when left to dry naturally

• Looks effortless, but not “sleek-salon straight” without styling

Good to know

• Very natural-looking

• Requires light styling if you prefer a polished or very straight finish

• Great balance between realism and manageability

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Brazilian grade

Look & feel

• Thicker strand diameter

• Holds style very well

How it air-dries

• Air-dries with more body and texture

• Can appear slightly coarser if left completely untouched

• Benefits from blow-drying or light styling, straightening iron

Good to know

• Very durable and strong

• Ideal if you like volume or frequent styling

• Less “fine and airy” than European or Slavic grades

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Slavic / Russian grade

Look & feel

• Ultra-fine, silky strands

• Extremely soft and light

• The most natural and delicate appearance

How it air-dries

• Air-dries very smooth, soft and straight with a slight wave.

• Minimal frizz, minimal effort

• Very natural looking. Often looks styled even when it’s not

Important to know (very important)

• Slavic hair can sometimes feel slightly tangled or “grabby” while wet

• This is normal for ultra-fine hair and does not indicate poor quality

• Once gently brushed and fully dry, the hair becomes smooth and silky again

Good to know

• Rarest and most expensive hair grade

• Not all lengths or colors are always available

Why shedding can occur and how to slow it down

If you are new to wigs or toppers, it’s important to understand one thing upfront: a high-quality human hair wig or topper is not a permanent product.

Understanding how a wig or topper is constructed helps set realistic expectations and makes a big difference in how long you can enjoy your piece.

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How a wig or topper is constructed

Human hair wigs and toppers are constructed by securing individual hairs into a lace or base using very small knots. Thousands of these knots together create a natural hairline, realistic parting and soft movement.

This delicate construction is what makes a wig or topper look realistic — but it also means the base requires gentle handling.

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What shedding really means

Shedding occurs when a knot loosens or breaks, allowing a hair to come free.

This is not hair “falling out randomly” and is almost never caused by poor hair quality.

A small amount of shedding is normal, especially:

• during the first wears or washes

• when loose hairs from production are released

• during gentle brushing or washing

This is comparable to natural hair fall.

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Why some wigs and toppers are more delicate than others

Very natural wigs and toppers often use:

• fine lace

• small, low-visibility knots

• sometimes lightened (bleached) knots for a softer hairline

These features improve realism but can make the knots more fragile over time.

It’s a balance between a very natural look and long-term durability.

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Common causes of increased shedding

Shedding is most often caused by mechanical stress rather than a defect.

Examples include:

• brushing or pulling while the hair is wet

• pulling from the roots instead of the ends

• rubbing, scrubbing or scratching the lace or base

• twisting or wringing the hair when wet

• soaking the wig or topper in water

• applying conditioner, masks or heavy products on the base

• high heat near the knots or part

• tight hairstyles or frequent part changes

• friction from scarves, jackets, seatbelts or sleeping in the piece

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How to slow down shedding with proper care

Shedding cannot be fully prevented, but proper care can significantly slow it down and extend the lifespan of your wig or topper.

DO

• Brush gently, starting at the ends and working upwards

• Brush only when dry or slightly damp

• Support the lace with your hand while brushing

• Detangle before washing

• Let water and shampoo flow through the hair

• Apply conditioner to mid-lengths and ends only

• Gently squeeze out water with a towel

• Use moderate heat and low tension near the roots

• Remove your wig or topper when resting or sleeping

• Reduce friction whenever possible

DON’T

• Brush or pull on the hair when it’s wet

• Rub, scrub or scratch the lace or base

• Soak the wig or topper in water

• Twist or wring the hair

• Apply conditioner, masks or oils on the base

• Scratch the lace if it feels itchy

• Use very high heat near the knots or part

• Wear tight ponytails or frequently change the part

• Sleep, swim or shower with your wig or topper

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Wigs and toppers don’t last forever

Even with excellent care, wigs and toppers have a limited lifespan.

Over time:

• knots naturally loosen

• the base experiences wear

• shedding may gradually increase

This is normal and part of wearing a delicately constructed hairpiece.

The lifespan depends on wear frequency, styling habits and overall care.

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If shedding increases

Increased shedding does not automatically mean the piece is ruined.

In many cases, professional maintenance such as reinforcing knots or adding hair to thinning areas can help extend wear and restore balance. Addressing changes early often makes a significant difference.

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Final note

Human hair wigs and toppers are created to look natural — and that natural look comes with a delicate construction. Understanding this helps explain why shedding can occur, why gentle care matters, and why realistic expectations are important.

With the right care and awareness, you can enjoy your wig or topper with confidence and get the most out of your investment.

Appearance, durability, longevity & shedding

Knots are the tiny points where individual hairs are tied into the lace.

When these knots are bleached, they become lighter in color, making them less visible and creating a softer hairline appearance. While this can look beautiful, it also comes with important trade-offs that directly affect durability, shedding and lifespan.

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✅ Pros of bleached knots

More invisible hairline

• Knots blend more easily into the lace

• Creates a soft, realistic look, especially at the front

• Often preferred for close-up or photo-focused styling

Immediate aesthetic result

• The hairline looks lighter and more “finished” without additional customization

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⚠️ Cons of bleached knots

Reduced durability

• Bleaching weakens the hair at the knot itself

• Hair is more prone to breakage and shedding, especially at the hairline

Shorter lifespan

• Bleached knots do not hold up as long with frequent or daily wear

• Friction from styling, brushing, hats or glasses accelerates wear

Higher shedding risk

• Shedding usually starts at the hairline, where knots are most exposed

• This is a structural effect of bleaching, not a defect

Potential color shift over time

• Bleached knots can turn warm or slightly brassy due to oxidation, UV exposure, washing and product buildup

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Longevity: what to realistically expect

Bleached knots are not designed for maximum longevity.

They are best suited for:

• Occasional wear

• Clients prioritizing an ultra-soft hairline over durability

• Situations where aesthetics matter more than lifespan

They are less ideal for:

• Daily wear

• Long-term use without frequent maintenance

• Clients who prefer a low-maintenance solution

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Invisible vs durable — the real choice

There is no “better” option, only a different priority:

• Bleached knots → more invisible, but less durable

• Unbleached / stronger knots → slightly more visible, but significantly more resistant to shedding and wear

Bleached knots should never be seen as a quality upgrade, they are a stylistic decision with consequences.

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Can I order bleached knots on any Hair by V wig?

Yes. All Hair by V wigs can be ordered as a custom order with bleached knots.

Because bleached knots affect durability and longevity, this option is only advised when clients fully understand and accept the trade-off between appearance and lifespan.

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How does Hair by V create a natural hairline without bleached knots?

For regular lace top wigs, Hair by V offers an alternative method.

Instead of bleaching the knots, wigs can be ordered with light front hair (often lighter or blonde hair at the hairline).

I then hand-paint and custom color this front area to match the rest of the wig.

This technique:

• Creates a soft, natural-looking hairline

• Keeps the knots stronger and more durable

• Reduces shedding at the hairline

• Improves overall longevity

This is a preferred option for clients who want a natural result without compromising lifespan.

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Which Hair by V wigs come standard with bleached knots?

The Low Density Hairline Collection (standard) comes with:

• Bleached knots

• Brazilian hair grade (single drawn hair, thinner towards the ends)

Exception:

• The color Demi is made with double drawn European hair grade

Because of the bleached knots, this collection is best suited for clients who prioritize an ultra-soft hairline and have realistic expectations regarding durability and maintenance.

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Care tips for bleached knots

• Handle the hairline gently

• Avoid excessive brushing or pulling at the lace

• Limit heat and friction at the front

• If knots become warm or brassy over time, a blue or purple &shampoo can help neutralize unwanted tones

• Use sparingly

• Focus on the hairline area

• Overuse can dry out the hair

Proper care helps maintain appearance, but it cannot reverse structural weakening caused by bleaching.

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Final note

Bleached knots affect:

• Hairline appearance

• Shedding behavior

• Longevity

• Maintenance level

Understanding this before ordering is essential.

All related comparisons and care guidance are available on the Hair by V website and should be read thoroughly before purchasing.