Braided wigs have become a popular choice of protective styling for many women. They offer versatility, convenience, and protection to natural hair. However, the challenge lies in making them look natural. A wig that looks too shiny, bulky, or fake can ruin the overall look. Here are some tips for making braided wigs look natural.
Choose the right hair texture
The hair texture of the wig should match your natural hair texture as closely as possible. If your hair is coarse and kinky, then choose a wig with hair that has similar characteristics. This will make the wig blend in seamlessly with your natural hair. It is also important to choose a hair texture that you are comfortable with and can easily maintain.
Trim the lace
The lace front of the wig is what makes it look natural. It should be trimmed to fit your hairline perfectly. Use a pair of sharp scissors to carefully trim the excess lace along the hairline. Avoid cutting too much lace as this may cause the wig to shift or slide off.
Use foundation to match your skin tone
The lace front of the wig should match your skin tone. If it is too light or too dark, it will look fake. Apply a small amount of foundation that matches your skin tone to the lace front of the wig. This will help to blend it in with your natural skin and make it look more natural.
Cut and style the wig
The wig should be cut and styled to suit your face shape and personal style. A wig that is too long or too short can look unnatural. You can take it to a professional hairstylist or do it yourself if you have the skills. Braided wigs can be styled in various ways such as updos, buns, or ponytails to give them a natural look.
Use baby hairs
Baby hairs are small, wispy hairs that grow along the hairline. They can be used to make the wig look more natural. Brush some baby hairs forward and cut them to the desired length. Apply some edge control or styling gel to keep them in place.
Apply powder
Braided wigs can look too shiny, which makes them look fake. Apply some translucent powder to the hair strands to reduce the shine. This will give the wig a more natural look.
Accessorize
Accessorizing the wig can also make it look more natural. Use headbands, scarves, or hats to complement the wig and make it look more like your own hair. You can also add some hair accessories such as beads, clips, or pins to give it some personality.
Take care of the braided wig
Taking care of the wig is essential to making it look natural. It should be washed and conditioned regularly. Use products that are specifically designed for braided wigs. Avoid using heavy oils or greases that can weigh down the hair and make it look fake. Also, store the wig properly when not in use to avoid tangling or damage.
In conclusion, making braided wigs look natural requires some effort and attention to detail. Choosing the right hair texture, trimming the lace, using foundation to match your skin tone, cutting and styling the wig, using baby hairs, applying powder, accessorizing, and taking care of the wig are all important factors in achieving a natural look. With these tips, you can confidently wear your braided wig and enjoy the benefits of protective styling.