How To Take The Shine Out Of A Wig: 4 Expert Tips for a Natural Look

We've all been there – you've just got a gorgeous new wig, but it's got that telltale shine that screams "I'm wearing a wig!"

Don't worry, my fellow wig enthusiasts. As someone who's been rocking wigs for years, I've picked up some tricks to tackle that pesky shine and make your wig look as natural as your own hair.

Whether you're sporting a sleek lace wig, a sassy short wig, or a beautiful human hair wig, I've got you covered. Let's dive in!

Understanding Wig Shine: The Good, The Bad, and The Glossy

First things first – not all shine is bad. A bit of luster can make your wig look healthy and vibrant. But too much shine, especially on synthetic wigs, can look unnatural. The key is finding the right balance.

Before You Start: Know Your Wig

Different types of wigs require different approaches:

Synthetic wigs are usually the shiniest and need the most work.
Human hair wigs often have a more natural shine but might still need some tweaking.
Lace wigs require extra care around the delicate lace area.

The Shine-Busting Toolkit

Here's what you'll need in your anti-shine arsenal:

Dry shampoo (make sure it's clear if you have a dark wig)
Baby powder
Cornstarch
Apple cider vinegar
Wig brush or wide-tooth comb
Fabric softener sheets

Methods to Reduce Wig Shine

1. The Dry Shampoo Method

This is my go-to for a quick shine fix:

Hold the dry shampoo about 6 inches away from your wig.
Spray lightly, focusing on the shiniest areas.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently brush through.

Pro tip: This works great for wigs with bangs that tend to look extra shiny!

2. The Powder Power

Baby powder or cornstarch can work wonders:

Sprinkle a small amount onto your hands.
Gently pat and rub it into your wig.
Brush through to distribute evenly.

Be careful with this method on dark wigs – you don't want to end up looking like you've aged 40 years overnight!

3. The Fabric Softener Trick

This is a bit of a secret weapon:

Mix 1 part fabric softener with 3 parts water in a spray bottle.
Lightly mist your wig.
Let it air dry, then brush gently.

This not only reduces shine but also makes your wig super soft!

4. The Vinegar Solution

For a more intensive treatment:

Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar.
Dip your wig into the solution.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water and let air dry.

This method is great for human hair wigs that need a deep cleanse.

5. The Wash and Wear

Sometimes, all your wig needs is a good wash:

Use a wig-specific shampoo and cool water.
Gently work the shampoo through the hair.
Rinse thoroughly and let air dry.

Often, this alone can reduce excess shine, especially in human hair wigs.

Special Considerations for Different Wig Types

For short wigs, be careful not to use too much product, as it can weigh down the hair.
With braided wigs, focus on reducing shine at the roots and along the braids.
For lace wigs, be extra gentle around the lace front to avoid damage.

My Personal De-Shining Adventure

Let me tell you about the time I almost blinded my date with my shiny wig (okay, slight exaggeration, but you get the point).

I had just gotten this gorgeous long wig for a special night out. Under the restaurant lights, it was gleaming like a disco ball.

Mid-dinner, I excused myself to the bathroom and did an emergency de-shine session with some baby powder I had in my purse.

Crisis averted, and I learned a valuable lesson – always de-shine before a big night out!

Maintaining the Perfect Shine Level

Once you've achieved the perfect level of shine (or lack thereof), here's how to maintain it:

Store your wig properly on a wig stand.
Avoid using regular hair products – stick to wig-specific ones.
Don't over-wash your wig – this can strip it of its natural-looking finish.
Touch up with dry shampoo or powder as needed.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you're dealing with a particularly stubborn shine or an expensive wig you're afraid to experiment on, don't hesitate to consult a professional wig stylist. They have specialized products and techniques to get your wig looking just right.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the goal isn't to completely eliminate shine – you want your wig to look natural and healthy, not dull and lifeless.

It might take some trial and error to find the perfect method for your specific wig, but don't get discouraged. With a little patience and practice, you'll be rocking a natural-looking, perfectly de-shined wig in no time!

Now go forth and shine... but not too much!

Check Out Our Wig Collection

If you're looking to skip the hassle of reducing shine and go straight to a flawless, natural look, ST Wigs has you covered. Our wigs are crafted with the highest quality materials, ensuring a natural, stunning appearance right out of the box—no extra tricks needed:

Human Hair Wigs: For the most natural look and versatile styling options.
Lace Front Wigs: Achieve a seamless, natural-looking hairline.
Short Wigs: Perfect for a chic, low-maintenance style.
Wigs with Bangs: Frame your face beautifully with these stylish options.
Braided Wigs: Get the look of intricate braids without the hours of styling.

Each of our wigs is crafted with care and feel completely natural, enhancing your style with ease. Skip the shine concerns and enjoy perfect hair from day one. Explore our collection and experience the difference today.

Learn more about Choosing and Wearing a Wig from the American Cancer Society