Short hair wigs offer an incredibly versatile and chic option for those who want to transform their look. Whether you’re seeking a sleek bob, a curly pixie cut, or a spiky style, short wigs allow you to experiment with various looks without the commitment of cutting your natural hair. Styling a short hair wig, however, requires a unique approach to ensure that the final result is flattering and polished. This article will guide you through the steps and tips to achieve a variety of stunning looks with your short hair wig. We will also integrate practical advice for maintaining the wig’s shape and ensuring its longevity.
Choosing the Right Short Hair Wig for Your Face Shape
The first step in styling a short hair wig is selecting the right one for your face shape. Since wigs are typically made from synthetic or human hair, the cut and texture can vary greatly, so it’s important to find a style that complements your features. Common face shapes include oval, round, square, heart, and diamond. Here’s how to choose a wig style based on your face shape:
- Oval face shape: Almost any short hairstyle works well with an oval face. Try a chic bob, pixie, or layered cut for versatility.
- Round face shape: To elongate your face, opt for a wig with volume at the crown and longer layers at the sides. Avoid overly rounded cuts.
- Square face shape: Soft, layered cuts that add texture and volume can help soften sharp jawlines. A side-swept pixie or layered bob works well.
- Heart face shape: Short wigs with bangs or soft waves can balance a wider forehead and narrower chin.
- Diamond face shape: Soft, rounded cuts such as a layered bob or pixie can add balance and soften the angles of your face.
Preparing Your Short Hair Wig for Styling
Before you start styling your short hair wig, it’s important to prepare it properly. A well-prepped wig will not only make the styling process easier, but it will also ensure the end result looks natural and well-maintained.
1. Wash and Condition the Wig
Start by washing the wig to remove any dust, oils, or residues from previous styling products. Gently comb through the wig before washing to detangle it. Use a wig-specific shampoo and conditioner to maintain its softness and prevent damage. Rinse thoroughly and allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand to retain its shape.
2. Detangle and Brush
Once the wig is dry, use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush to gently detangle it. Begin at the tips and work your way up to the roots to avoid breakage. Be gentle, as short hair wigs can be more fragile compared to longer wigs.
3. Use a Heat Protection Spray
If you’re using heated tools such as a flat iron or curling iron, apply a heat protection spray to the wig. This will help shield the fibers from heat damage, especially if the wig is made from synthetic hair.
How to Style Short Hair Wig?
1. Straightening a Short Hair Wig
If you’re aiming for a sleek and polished look, straightening a short hair wig is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by dividing the wig into sections to make it easier to straighten.
- Using a flat iron, take small sections of hair and run the iron through each section from root to tip.
- Make sure not to overheat the hair to prevent damage, especially if it’s made from synthetic fibers.
- Once straightened, use a small amount of light-hold hairspray to set the look and add a bit of shine.
2. Curling a Short Hair Wig
Curling a short wig adds volume and texture, creating a fun, bouncy style. Here’s how to curl it:
- Start by using a curling iron or wand. Choose a barrel size based on the type of curls you want — smaller barrels for tighter curls, larger barrels for looser waves.
- Section off the wig and curl small sections of hair, wrapping the hair around the barrel and holding it for a few seconds.
- Once you’ve curled the entire wig, gently comb through the curls with your fingers to soften them.
- For more natural-looking curls, use a texturizing spray or mousse.
3. Adding Volume to a Short Hair Wig
If you’re looking to add volume to your short wig, here are a few techniques that can help:
- Backcombing: Lightly backcomb the roots of your wig to add volume. Use a fine-tooth comb and backcomb in small sections.
- Layering: If your wig has layers, they can naturally add volume. For wigs without layers, you can create your own layers with careful cutting or trimming.
- Texturizing Products: Use mousse, dry shampoo, or texturizing spray to give the wig more lift and body. These products can add volume without weighing down the hair.
Maintaining Your Short Hair Wig
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your short hair wig looking its best. With regular care, your wig can last longer and continue to look stylish. Follow these simple maintenance tips:
1. Regular Washing
Even though wigs don’t get as dirty as natural hair, it’s still important to wash them every 6-8 wears to keep them fresh and free from styling product buildup. Use gentle products that are designed specifically for wigs to avoid damaging the fibers.
2. Proper Storage
When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand to help maintain its shape. Avoid folding or crushing the wig, as this can cause the fibers to become misshapen.
3. Avoid Overstyling
Excessive styling can wear down the fibers of your wig, causing it to lose its shape or texture. Style your wig occasionally and give it time to rest. If you find yourself frequently restyling it, consider investing in an additional wig to rotate between for longer-lasting wear.
Conclusion
Styling a short hair wig is a fun and creative process that can give you an entirely new look in just a few minutes. Whether you prefer straight, curly, or voluminous styles, there are countless ways to enhance your short wig. With the right techniques, a little patience, and proper care, your wig will always look fresh and flawless.