Will the Sun Change the Colour of My Wig?
Whether you wear wigs for fashion, fun, or necessity, one common concern that often comes up is: will the sun fade or change the colour of my wig? The answer is yes, but the extent depends on several key factors like wig material, colour, and exposure time.
- Yes, UV Rays Can Fade Wigs
Just like sunlight can bleach fabrics, paintings, and even your natural hair, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down the pigments in your wig’s fibres, leading to noticeable fading or colour changes over time. The damage can happen gradually, especially if your wig is regularly exposed to direct sunlight.
- Synthetic vs. Human Hair Wigs
- Synthetic Wigs: These are typically made from plastic-based fibres like Kanekalon or Toyokalon. While synthetic wigs are often treated for UV resistance, they’re not immune to fading. Overexposure to the sun can cause synthetic wigs to lose their shine and subtly shift in tone, for example, a vibrant red may become more coppery or dull.
- Human Hair Wigs: These react more like bio hair they can lighten or oxidize in the sun, especially if untreated. Human hair wigs that are dyed (especially blonde or pastel shades) may fade faster due to the breakdown of the dye molecules when exposed to UV rays.
- Lighter Colours Fade Faster
Just like with clothing, lighter-coloured wigs tend to show signs of sun damage more quickly. Blonde, silver, pastel, or platinum shades may yellow or dull under sunlight, while darker shades might become brassy or reddish.
- How to Protect Your Wig from the Sun
Good news: there are ways to keep your wig looking fresh and vibrant even under the sun.
- Limit Exposure: Try not to wear your wig in direct sunlight for long periods. Hats, headwear, or parasols can offer great UV protection while still looking stylish.
- Wig Rotation: If you wear wigs daily, rotating between a few different ones can reduce the amount of sun exposure each one gets - helping them last longer.
- Proper Storage: When not wearing your wig, store it in a cool, dark place. Avoid windowsills or sunny spots where stray sunlight can still do damage.
- What If My Wig Already Faded?
If your wig has already suffered from sun damage, there are a few possible ways to refresh it:
- Toning shampoos (for human hair wigs) can reduce brassiness or discoloration
- Wig dyes can help restore the wig colour
- Professional wig styling consultations speaking to a professional is always the best option when dealing with colour fading, hair loss and wig specialists can treat the pieces safely.
Yes, the sun can change the colour of your wig, but with a bit of care, you can prevent fading and keep your favourite hairpieces looking flawless!
Book a salon consultation with an Aderans hair loss expert here.
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