Wig head: The indispensable companion for perfect wig care

A wig holder serves far more functions than most people realize. When drying after washing, it preserves the wig's natural head shape and prevents unsightly dents or deformation. This is especially crucial for real hair wigs – once dried, wrinkles are often difficult to correct.

But the true value comes in the styling. While you're trying to style your wig on your own head, you're fighting gravity and have only a limited view of the final result. A stable mannequin head, on the other hand, allows you to work from any angle—you can define curls, create perfect parts, and precisely place individual strands.

What's surprising: A wig head for styling significantly extends the lifespan of your wig. Without the constant friction and pressure of styling directly on the head, the fibers are protected and the cap retains its original fit.

The choice of material when purchasing a wig head determines comfort and durability. Styrofoam wig heads are a popular entry-level option – they're lightweight, inexpensive, and perfectly adequate for occasional use. A Styrofoam wig head can easily be fitted with pins to secure the wig during styling. With normal use (2-3 times per week), a Styrofoam model will last approximately 6-12 months before the surface becomes too damaged.

The downside: Styrofoam isn't very robust. With frequent use, holes and dents quickly develop, making it difficult to put on the wig evenly. This is frustrating for people who work with their wig daily or own several. Styrofoam is also heat-sensitive—deformation can occur at temperatures as low as 70°C.

A wooden wig head, on the other hand, is an investment in the future. The sturdy material is forgiving even during intensive styling sessions and retains its shape for years – typically 3-5 years with daily use. Experts confirm: "Wood works with the wig, not against it." The material's natural structure absorbs moisture and releases it in a controlled manner – ideal for the drying process. Wooden heads can withstand temperatures up to 120°C, making them suitable for all common styling tools.

Combined solutions are also surprisingly practical: A hat stand head can be used for both wigs and a hat collection, saving space in the dressing room. For professional users, adjustable models made of beechwood or cork-wood composite material are recommended, as they can be adapted to different head sizes.

An often overlooked aspect when purchasing a wig head is choosing the right size. Standard wig heads have a circumference of 54-56 cm and fit most standard size M wigs. For petite caps (52-54 cm), you'll need a correspondingly smaller head, while large wigs (57-59 cm) require a larger circumference.

The fit is crucial: A wig head that's too small will overstretch the cap and can cause permanent damage. A head that's too large won't shape the wig properly, resulting in uneven styling when drying. Before purchasing, measure the circumference of your wig cap or refer to the manufacturer's sizing guidelines.

Professional wig studios often use multiple heads of different sizes: 52 cm for children's wigs and very small caps, 54 cm for petite sizes, 56 cm as standard, and 58 cm for large caps. This investment is especially worthwhile if you own several different types of wigs.

After washing your wig, the most critical moment for your investment begins. Many wearers simply lay the wet wig flat or hang it over a chair. The result: uneven drying, loss of shape, and, in the worst case, mold growth in the unventilated areas.

A special wig drying stand elegantly solves these problems. The elevated position allows air circulation from all sides while maintaining the shape of the head. This is especially crucial for curly or wavy wigs – the bounce of the curls can only be maintained if they can dry in their natural shape.

Drying time varies depending on the material and environmental conditions: Synthetic hair wigs need approximately 4-6 hours at room temperature, while human hair wigs should dry in 8-12 hours. In high humidity, the drying time may be longer. It's important that the wig is completely dry—even the inside of the cap—before removing it.

A pro tip: Never place the wig stand in direct sunlight or near a heater. Even air drying at room temperature is gentler on the fibers and preserves the color brilliance for longer.

What many people overlook is the right time to put the wig on the wig stand. The wig should still be slightly damp, but not dripping wet. This allows it to adapt perfectly to the shape of your head without stretching due to excessive weight.

The difference between a "okay"-looking wig and a professionally styled one often lies in the preparation. A sturdy wig stand for styling becomes your third hand—it holds the wig exactly where you need it while you work with focus.

Here's a secret from hair salons: Use pins to secure individual sections of the wig to the Styrofoam head before styling with heat. This allows you to work precisely without strands slipping into the styling iron. With real hair wigs, this even allows for more complex styles like updos or elaborate braids.

Important safety instructions for heat styling: Styrofoam heads may only be used at low temperatures (maximum 70°C). At higher temperatures, be sure to use heat protection mats or switch to a heat-resistant wooden head. Always test the temperature first on an inconspicuous area of the wig.

Another benefit is often overlooked: the psychological effect. When you see your wig presented on an elegant wig stand, your appreciation for the piece automatically grows. This emotional connection leads you to be more conscious about its care and ultimately enjoy your wig longer.

For advanced users: Use different wig heads for different purposes—one for daily styling, a second for drying after washing. This separation prevents styling residue from interfering with the drying process and allows you to work with multiple wigs simultaneously.

Your wig head also requires regular care to perform at its best. Styrofoam heads should be wiped weekly with a slightly damp cloth to remove styling product residue and dust. Avoid harsh cleaning agents, which can damage the material.

Maintain wooden heads monthly with a special wood cleaner or mild soapy water. Then let the wood dry completely and treat it with wood oil every six months to prevent cracking.

Store your wig head in a dry, dust-free place. Cover it with a cloth if it is not going to be used for an extended period. Check its stability regularly – wobbly stands can damage your wig and should be replaced or repaired promptly.