How Long Does A Wig Install Last?

A question that will cross the mind of almost everyone when installing a wig for the first time could be: how long does a wig install last?

If you've ever wondered about this question and are still curious, the answer is that a wig can last from a day to about six weeks.

Note: Your wig shouldn't stay on for more than six weeks. After that, it should be removed and reinstalled if you like.

But don't leave, as different factors determine if your wig install will last long or not. In this post, let's take a quick look at them, share some tips on how to keep your wig looking good for the longest time after installation, and address a few other questions you might still have.

Several Factors Affect How Long a Wig Install Will Last

Everything, from the adhesive one uses to the expertise and manner of application of the stylist, can affect just how long your wig will last. Now, in this part, let's mention some of them.

1. Wig Adhesives or None

When it comes to the installation of your wig, there are numerous types of wig adhesives that you can use, and which you use makes all the difference between your wig staying on longer or not. Some can hold your wig for several hours, while others hold them for days and weeks.

For example, adhesives like Got2b Glued Freeze Spray can last a few days. On the other hand, Bold Hold Active can stay up to weeks. Many more like that give you long-lasting security.

It can also be done without any adhesives or glue at all. With a glueless wig, clips, grips, and adjustable straps can hold the wig in place. However, they do not provide the same security as some of the wigs' adhesives. But it is an option for you to try, in case you would like to wear your wig for some hours, for example. choice.

2. How the Wig is Installed

Apart from the wig adhesive used, how long your wig install will last depends on who does it—whether you do it yourself or turn to a salon for their services.

Improper installation increases the chances of slippage or weakening. This means it's important to visit an expert who installs wigs properly. For instance, an expert knows cleaning your scalp before adding glue is necessary for a long-lasting wig. Also, properly anchoring your wigs with the clips and straps helps to keep them in place.

All these are things a professional stylist will take note of. However, a beginner may not have the experience to install a wig properly and neatly. Check a beginner-friendly guide to installing a wig by yourself.

3. Hair Type

Two types of wigs are available, such as synthetic and human hair. As much as synthetic wigs are cheap, human hair wigs will last longer. So, if you want to use your wig longer, human hair wigs might be your best chance. They also give you a natural look and you can also reuse them after uninstalling.

That said, let's not discourage you from putting on synthetic wigs if that is what you like. There are quality synthetic wigs that give a natural look and may last a little while, but again, they're just not comparable in durability to human hair wigs.

Related Read: Human Hair Wig VS Synthetic Wig

4. Lifestyle

In addition, your lifestyle contributes to the longevity of a wig. If you sweat a lot, your wig might slip in no time. Meaning, you've got to be careful, especially if you're not using waterproof glue.

A waterproof glue will keep your wig intact. So, go for this type of glue when installing and you plan to wear the wig for long.

Still, there is a downside, as sweating might also cause scalp irritation and old growth, making you want to remove it faster to stop these conditions.

5. Maintenance

How you maintain your wig can help prolong its life. This is in how you wash, condition, and style. So, follow the necessary steps when doing all these to keep it looking shiny and beautiful throughout the time it's installed and even beyond.

You do not need to wash while it's installed.

We would love to help you have your unit in place for the longest time and keep it in its best possible state. So, check the section below for a few tips.

How to Maintain Your Wig Install?

There are a few ways to make your installation last long, look good, and avoid getting damaged.

1. Reduce Exposure to Moisture

Wigs not installed with waterproof adhesives need to avoid moisture to keep the installation safe. This is because moisture can cause the glue, which keeps the wig in place to weaken. If that happens, you may need to remove it earlier. So, be careful.

You also want to avoid heavy workouts or strenuous activities that can make you sweat and wet your wig. Meanwhile, you can always cool yourself whenever you feel like your temperature is rising and you are about to start sweating.

2. Avoid Tangles

There's no other way to put it–tangles are bad. Excessive tangles will need longer detangling sessions, which can tug on your lace, leading to it loosening. This means as much as you can avoid too many tangles in your hair.

And there are some steps you can take to help keep your wig less tangled or even tangled-free.

The first step is to keep your wig moisturized instead of dry. Dry wigs tend to have more tangles than moisturized ones. So, keep it hydrated by applying oil or any moisturizer and the tangles will stay on their lane.

Another step is to go to bed with properly dry hair. Sleeping with wet hair can cause matting and tangles, which is the opposite of what you want to face every morning.

Lastly, sleep with a silk or satin bonnet. This will protect your hair from getting messed up, caused by turning and tossing at night.

3. Comb and Brush it Gently

Whenever you want to comb your hair, be gentle with it. Holding the lace down will reduce the tension and help you avoid tugging at it. This way, your wig will last long and the glue won't come off.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a wig install take?

Wig installs can take up to four hours depending on the type of installation you choose. For glues, it can take about two to four hours. However, if you use a non-adhesive method, it shouldn't take more than 30 minutes to complete.

You should know that the time also depends on how prepared your wig and hair is. If your hair needs washing and braiding, it will take much longer than if it's already washed and braided.

2. How to make a wig install last longer?

We have listed some ways to make your wig last longer, which include avoiding moisture and tangles and combing your wig gently. However, you must ensure that the installation technique is correctly done, use an adhesive that holds, and keep it maintained while it is on your head to have a flawless wig and extend its life.

Another thing you can add in is to get to a lace bond spray or freeze spray and use it when an area lifts.

3. How long can I wear a wig install?

As we said, a wig install can stay on for only six weeks.

We'll advise you not to let it stay longer than this because moisture can get trapped in, causing mold growth. Also, you could experience irritation with sweat accumulation, which can worsen with heat. This is to say uninstalling it after six weeks is the best for your scalp health and hair.

Once you've taken it out, you may reinstall it once you've tended to your hair.

4. How long does it take for a lace front wig to stay in place?

As we mentioned earlier, the time a wig can stay in place varies. We have stated above that some wigs may last up to six weeks, and the same applies to lace frontal wigs.

How long yours stays in place depends on many things, including the adhesive applied, and care. Stronger adhesives last longer, while lighter adhesives may require reapplication sooner. But also remember basic care such as wearing a silk or satin bonnet at night.

5. Can you reuse a wig after installation?

The answer is yes, you can. Not only is reinstalling wigs possible, but it is common, especially when the wig is well taken care of and made of high-quality materials. Human hair wigs, in particular, can be used many times with the right care.

Synthetic wigs can also be used again, but their life won’t be long; they need to be replaced quite often.

Final Words

Your wig's longevity will be based on most of the factors listed above, but, in essence, with good care, you can wear your install for several weeks. Keep up the maintenance and your wig will look great for as long as possible.