Underneath the Wigs and Weaves: Part Two - Caring for the Hair You Cover

Natural Hair

Wigs and weaves are wonderful tools for protection and style—but your natural hair care doesn’t stop when your hair is braided down. Healthy hair starts with consistent care beneath your installs. Here’s how to keep your natural hair thriving underneath your favorite protective styles.

1. Keep Your Scalp Clean and Fresh

Your scalp is the foundation of healthy hair growth. Before installing a wig or weave, wash with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup, then follow with a moisturizing shampoo. During your install, use a scalp cleansing spray or diluted shampoo once a week to prevent dryness and itchiness.

2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

Braided-down hair often becomes dry under wigs. Keep your strands hydrated with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or a water-based moisturizing spray. Seal in moisture with natural oils like jojoba, argan, or grapeseed oil to prevent breakage and maintain shine.

3. Show Your Scalp Some Love

Scalp massages aren’t just relaxing—they stimulate blood flow and promote natural hair growth. Use your fingertips or a soft scalp massager for five minutes a few times a week. Add a few drops of peppermint or rosemary oil for a soothing, growth-boosting experience.

4. Maintain Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments

Between installs, give your hair a “recovery week.” Deep condition, detangle gently, and trim your ends to maintain healthy growth. Look for deep conditioners rich in shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera to restore strength and elasticity.

5. Protect Your Edges

Your edges are precious—handle them with care! Avoid tight braids or heavy frontals that pull on the hairline. Apply an edge-protecting serum or castor oil nightly, and always sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to minimize friction.

6. Let It Breathe

Don’t wear back-to-back installs without a break. Let your natural hair breathe for at least a week between styles. This rest period allows your scalp to rebalance its natural oils and your hair to regain strength.

7. Learn Your Texture, Love Your Texture

Knowing your hair type helps you create the right care routine. Whether you’re 4C, 3B, or somewhere in between, each curl pattern has its own rhythm. Understanding it makes every wash day easier—and more rewarding.

Final Word

Healthy hair doesn’t mean giving up your wigs or weaves—it means maintaining balance. Your natural hair care routine should be just as strong as your styling game. Remember, every bundle and braid rests on a foundation that’s uniquely yours.

So before your next install, take a little extra time for the hair underneath. Wash it, oil it, and thank it—for growing, for enduring, and for holding up your crown every single day.

Your natural hair is not a secret—it’s your strength.