To straighten costume wig hair, use a brush to push the hair down and then use a steamer above it to press it flat.
While the provided video excerpt is brief, the core technique involves using heat, specifically steam, combined with a brush to manipulate and straighten the wig fibers. Here's a more detailed breakdown of how to approach straightening a costume wig:
Steps to Straighten a Costume Wig
- Prepare the Wig: Place the wig on a wig stand to keep it secure and make it easier to work with.
- Brush the Wig: Gently brush the wig to remove any tangles. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush specifically designed for synthetic fibers.
- Use Steam (Recommended):
- Fill a steamer with water and let it heat up. A garment steamer is ideal, but you can also carefully use a clothing iron with a steam setting held above the wig (never directly touching the fibers with the hot iron surface).
- Hold the steamer nozzle a few inches away from the wig fibers.
- Direct the steam downwards along the hair shaft, while gently brushing the hair in a downward motion to encourage straightening. Work in small sections.
- Alternative Heat Methods (Use with Extreme Caution):
- If you don't have a steamer, some people carefully use a hair straightener on the lowest heat setting possible.
- Important: Synthetic wig fibers can melt easily. Always test a hidden section of the wig first. Use a heat-resistant spray if available.
- Pass the straightener quickly over small sections of hair, brushing immediately afterwards to help set the straight style.
- Let Cool and Set: Once you've straightened all sections, let the wig cool completely on the wig stand. This allows the fibers to set in their new straight shape.
- Final Brush: After cooling, give the wig a final brush to smooth out any remaining frizz or kinks.
Important Considerations:
- Fiber Type: Different types of synthetic fibers react differently to heat. Some are more heat-resistant than others. Check the wig's instructions or manufacturer's recommendations if available.
- Heat Level: Always start with the lowest heat setting and gradually increase if necessary. Overheating can damage or melt the fibers.
- Test Patch: Before straightening the entire wig, test a small, inconspicuous section (e.g., underneath layers) to see how the fibers react to the heat.
- Patience: Straightening a wig takes time and patience. Work in small sections and avoid rushing.
By following these steps carefully, you can effectively straighten your costume wig hair and achieve the desired look while minimizing the risk of damage.
