Identify the Rip
It’s unavoidable, but at some point, you may find yourself with a ripped lace wig due to several reasons such as overuse, mishandling, or styling. A lace wig is an investment, and it’s essential to identify the rip as it will guide you in repairing it effectively. In identifying the tear, ensure you have appropriate lighting and a mirror.
Begin by examining the lace wig for any tears or holes. Wig tears are usually common in the frontal area, as this is where it has the most tension and manipulation. Inspect the edges of the tear to determine if it’s just a small hole or a more significant tear. Check if there’s any hair on the outside or inside of the hole to assess the damage.
If you have lace that is coming apart and unraveling, it can also cause extensions to become too frizzy or old, leading to some loose strands. Tiny tears such as those less than a centimeter can be quickly fixed by using lace adhesive, but more significant tears may require more attention.
Also, identify the color and length of the strands that have ripped. If it’s colored, then its repair will require a lot of precision. The length of strands that have ripped may also point to poor handling or bad sitting positioning. By identifying the extent of the tear, you can now proceed to repair it.
Gather Necessary Materials
Wigs, especially lace wigs, have become a popular way to switch up one’s hairstyle. But a ripped lace wig can be a nightmare for anyone who relies on it for their daily style. Luckily, fixing a ripped lace wig is not as difficult as you might think. You can easily repair a ripped lace wig by gathering a few essential materials.
Below are some of the essential materials you will need to fix a ripped lace wig:
- Curved Needles – These needles are specially designed to sew through lace without damaging it. Curved needles are an essential tool for repairing lace wigs as they make it easier to sew wefts and hair back into the lace.
- Thread – Thread used for repairing lace wigs should match the hair color or the lace color of the wig. A non-duplicating thread can be distracting and noticeable.
- Scissors – A pair of scissors is essential to trim off any loose threads. This will make the repair look more polished, professional, and tidy.
- Wig clips or bobby pins – Wig clips or bobby pins are necessary to hold the wig in place while repairing. These accessories are also helpful when you need to focus on a specific area of the wig.
- Tweezers – Tweezers are a must-have tool for lace wig repairs. This tool is essential for slipping stray hair back into the lace as well as fixing any other minor damage.
- Clear nail polish – Clear nail polish is an essential material when fixing a lace wig tear. It prevents the tear from getting worse and improves the durability of the wig.
Each of the materials listed above is essential to fix a ripped lace wig. If you already have these materials on hand, the repair process will be much easier and faster.
Clean and Prepare the Area
Lace wig is an essential part of a woman’s appearance and can be a costly investment. With everyday use, it can undergo a lot of wear and tear. One common issue with lace wigs is the lace being ripped. Fortunately, you don’t have to throw it away as you can easily fix it. The process requires some patience, but with the right tools and technique, it can be a smooth process.
When you notice a rip on your lace wig, the first thing you need to do is to clean and prepare the area. This step is essential as it ensures that the area is free from dust, oil, and debris, which can affect the bond of a new lace.
Begin by taking out the wig and give it a light wash. Use a mild shampoo to prevent the lace from becoming stiff or tangled, which may cause more damage. Rinse it thoroughly and squeeze out any excess water. Gently pat the hair with a towel to dry it, do not rub as it may cause the hair to tangle or shed.
Once you’ve cleaned, dried, and combed your wig, you can now prepare the area. Use a pair of scissors to trim down any loose or frayed ends of the rip. You do not want them to interfere when you’re fixing the lace. You could also use tweezers to pick off any remaining bits of loose lace around the area.
Next, determine the size of the rip and cut a piece of lace fabric that can cover the area. Ensure that the lace matches the type and color of your wig lace, or it will look odd. A white lace piece on a black wig is a no-go. A fabric piece of lace you can use to patch the area can be found in beauty supply stores.
Now, use a small amount of spirit gum or adhesive to apply the lace patch. Spread it evenly across the tears or holes to create a small base. Ensure that the adhesive only reaches the edges of the ripped area and does not interfere with the hair strands. Use a hairdryer or fans to speed up the drying process.
Firmly press the lace patch onto the base, ensuring that there are no visible lines, bubbles, or gaps where the tears used to be. Cut off any excess amount and make sure that your new lace is firmly attached.
Once the glue has dried up, brush the hair and style it as desired. The repaired area will blend in with the rest of the wig and should not be visible.
By cleaning and preparing the area before patching, you’ll have a more secure and long-lasting fix.
Apply Adhesive
If your lace wig has a tear or rip, you will need to use a good quality adhesive to fix it. Adhesive is a key component for securing your wig to your scalp and keeping it looking natural and seamless. When selecting an adhesive, you should ensure that it is water-resistant, easy to apply, and strong enough to keep your wig in place throughout the day. Here are the steps to using adhesive to repair a ripped lace wig:
Contents
Step 1: Clean the Area
The first step to using adhesive to fix a ripped lace wig is to clean the area around the tear. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove any dirt, oil, or residue from the damaged area. This will help the adhesive to adhere firmly to the wig and your scalp.
Step 2: Apply the Adhesive
Once the area is clean and dry, you can apply the adhesive. There are different types of adhesives you can use, including glue, tape, and bonding agents. Choose the one that you find easiest to work with. Apply the adhesive to the damaged area of the wig using a brush or your fingers, and then press the tear together. Hold the lace down firmly until the adhesive dries. Depending on the type of adhesive you are using, this can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour.
Step 3: Let the Adhesive Set
After the adhesive has dried, you can let it set for a few minutes before styling your hair. This will allow the adhesive to fully bond with the lace and your scalp, ensuring that your wig stays in place throughout the day. Avoid washing or styling your wig until the adhesive has completely dried and set.
Step 4: Style with Confidence
Once the adhesive has set, you can style your wig with confidence. Depending on the type of adhesive you used, you may need to reapply it every few days or weeks to keep your wig looking fresh and secure. Follow the instructions on the adhesive carefully to achieve the best results. With the right adhesive and a bit of practice, you can fix a ripped lace wig and enjoy a flawless, natural-looking hairstyle every day.
Style and Care for Your Repaired Wig
After learning how to fix a ripped lace wig, it’s important to also know how to maintain the repaired wig’s style and condition. Here are some tips on how to style and care for your repaired wig:
Choose the Right Wig Brush
When brushing your wig, it’s important to use a wig brush and not a regular hairbrush. A wig brush has special bristles that are designed to prevent snagging or pulling the wig hair strands. It will also help maintain the wig’s shape and style. Start from the bottom of the wig, gently brush upward in sections and finish at the top.
Protect Your Repaired Wig from Heat
It’s important to protect your repaired wig from heat as it can easily damage the wig hair strands. Before using any heat styling tools, make sure to apply a heat protection spray to your wig. This will help prevent the wig hair from getting damaged from the heat. Keep the heat styling tool on a lower heat setting and avoid holding it in one area for too long.
Use Quality Hair Products
Using quality hair products like shampoo and conditioner will help extend the life of your repaired wig. Avoid using regular hair products as they can easily damage the wig hair strands. Always check the ingredients list of the hair products you use and make sure to avoid any product that contains alcohol, sulfates, or harsh chemicals. Opt for products that are specifically designed for wigs and use them as recommended.
Store Your Repaired Wig Properly
Proper storage of your repaired wig will help maintain its shape and style. After wearing your wig, make sure to store it in a wig stand or a mannequin head to prevent it from becoming tangled. Avoid hanging your wig as it can easily lose its shape and become stretched out. Also, if you’re going to keep your wig stored for a long period, make sure to cover it with a wig net or a scarf to protect it from dust or any other damaging elements.
Take Care of Your Natural Hair
Your natural hair also needs proper care when wearing a wig. Make sure to keep your hair and scalp clean and well-moisturized to prevent breakage or damage. Before wearing your wig, braid your hair to avoid any bunching or bulking and use a wig cap to protect your hair and scalp from any friction caused by the wig.
By following these easy styling and care tips, you can ensure that your repaired wig will continue to look great and maintain its quality for a long time.