HOW TO WASH A WIG, EXTENSION, OR HAIRPIECE

Washing a wig, extension, or hairpiece can be as easy as 1,2,3! However, most wearers are slightly hesitant to begin the washing process, thinking they might ruin their piece in one way or another. Have no fear! Lynne's Wig Boutique is here for you to help walk you through the process and are certainly happy to answer any questions you might have.


In truth, washing your wig, extension, or hairpiece is actually a critical part of the maintenance process. This step is needed to keep your wig smelling fresh and clean, while also looking hydrated and healthy. It is recommended to wash a synthetic piece once every 15 - 30 days. No too bad! In reality, washing this piece once or twice a month will seem so blissful compared to maintenance process of taking care of your natural hair.


Before we jump into the process, I wanted to share my spiel about products. With synthetic pieces being of a completely different fiber and source than your natural human hair - it is so important to use synthetic products on synthetic pieces. Products formulated for human hair have active ingredients that work with the natural proteins and oils that our bodies produce. These human hair products are amazing and work great for the hair that they are suited for (aka human hair); however, the active ingredients tend to react differently on synthetic fibers, causing the fiber to be "coated" with a thick, textured, and unwanted barrier. More so, after continual use, these human hair products will begin to create a build-up at the base of your wig, extension, or hairpiece. Having this build-up sit on the hand-tied or machine sew cap can cause the stitching to loosen and the wearer to be unhappy. 


On the plus side, synthetic products are a fraction of the cost of human hair products and easy to obtain! An average synthetic shampoo and/or conditioner will be anywhere from $10-$16 each, around 8-8.5 fluid ounces, and will last you 1-2 years. Only a 1 tablespoon worth of product is needed with each washing, which leads to the incredible longevity of these products.




Let's Begin the Washing Process:




1. Fill a sink basin with luke-warm water
2. Pour 1 TBS of synthetic shampoo into the water - mix with hand
3. Immerse wig in soapy water - let the piece sit for 10-15 minutes

4. Pick your piece up out of the basin, allowing the soapy water to fully run through
5. Dip your piece in the soapy water again and repeat steps 4-5 a few times.
6. Drain sink
7. Hold piece under the sink faucet, allowing the clean water to run through the entire piece - continue rinsing until ALL soap bubbles are eliminated
8. Gently ring out piece
9 Wrap piece in a towel, gently blotting to remove the majority of water
10. Spray piece with a leave-in conditioner
11. Set piece on a wig stand with an open base to air dry - dry time will vary depending on length
12. After piece is fully dry, brush with a wide tooth comb


We here at Lynne's Wig Boutique sell all the products and stands needed for washing your wig, extension, or hairpiece - that way you are able to confidently care of you piece on your own. Additionally, we are able to wash, deep condition, repair, and/or style your wig for you if you would like to drop off your piece at our shop. This service is convenient and hassle free for the wearer.




Best of luck washing your wig, extension, or hairpiece! Call if there are any questions!



www.lynneswigboutique.com
801-763-1693

The Ultimate Guide: Get Insurance to Cover Your Wig

Will My Insurance Cover A Wig? 

The short answer is yes! You just have to know what to say, how to say it, and put in a little elbow grease. Keep reading and we'll share all the goods.

Get on the same page as the insurance company: Wig vs. Cranial Prosthesis

In order for a wig to be covered, it needs to be considered a medical need. Wigs are often viewed as costume attire, but let's be real, you need hair for your day-to-day operations. Otherwise, your insurance company will say no can do.

So to get this party started, you will now be referring to your wig as what it is in the medical world-- a cranial prosthesis. 

Keep Your Documents Organized

Don't let a little paperwork hold you back from wig wearing success. Keep a folder on hand for easy organization.

Some things that will be in your folder:

• Your insurance contract (for reference)
• A cover letter with emotional appeal. Why does this matter to you?
• Photos of you with and without hair
• A copy of your diagnosis
• A prescription from your physician for your “cranial prosthesis” that also notes your specific condition as closely as possible
• Proof of purchase if you have already purchased your wig
• The store’s Vendor or Store Tax ID
  Insurance Procedure Code (Commonly S8095 or Healthcare Common Procedure Code A9282)

In addition, make notes anytime you speak with someone from the insurance company. If you send mail, make sure it's certified. Paper trails pave the path to beautiful hair.

First Things First: Get a Copy of Your Insurance Contract

The contract is not to be confused with a summation of benefits. The contract covers the nitty gritty details. This information can be easily accessed by logging into your account or contacting your provider directly.

Look through your contract until you find the section in regards to “Prosthetic Coverage”, this is where you will find out whether they cover cranial prosthetics. 

If they haven't specifically addressed this topic in this section, continue reading until you locate another section called "Exclusions". 

If a cranial prosthesis is not specifically mentioned as being excluded in the contract, then consider this an open window and climb on in. 

Make Your Case

Write a cover letter to submit with your documents. Appeal to the human behind the keyboard. Why is this important to you? What did you look like with hair and without hair? Include photos. Drive home the message about how much value this would bring to your life and well-being.

Not only does hair make you look and feel yourself, it helps you to blend in without having to explain your condition to outsiders. It can be a constant reminder. 

So, whatever your reason for needing or wanting a wig, use the proper terminology that speaks to the insurance providers as the humans that they are. 

Submit Your Claim, Wait, Follow Up

Before submitting your claim, it's a good idea to call your insurance company and make sure you have all of the required documents. 

Once you have everything you need, put it together and submit your claim. Send it via certified mail to ensure it's arrival.

As with most insurance claims, it can take some time to be processed. However, feel free to call and follow up as much as you like. It can never hurt!

What if My Claim For A Wig is Denied?

No worries. It isn't an indefinite no. You still have options.

File An Appeal:

Address the letter to a specific manager in the Claims Department. You can obtain this information by calling the insurance company.

Write a letter asking for a review by the Medical Review Board. 

Go into detail about the difference between a cranial prosthesis and a “fashion wig”. Also, feel free to include emotional details about your experience and why you feel that this is medically necessary.

Provide a copy of your original claims.

Include a letter from your employer, doctor, or friend that supports your need.

Questions? We're Happy To Help!

At Lynne's Wig Boutique, it's our goal to hold your hand through the wig buying process. It can be emotional and overwhelming. Let us help you pick out the perfect wig today. Stop into our American Fork location or visit our online store for a premier wig-shopping experience.

7 No Fail Tips for Traveling with Your Wig

Traveling with a wig doesn't have to be stressful! Whether you are a novice or expert at packing, this essential game-day checklist will insure a smooth-sailing travel experience for both you and your wig.

1. Consider your travel time

Just as your favorite pair of shoes can become uncomfortable after a while, so can your wig. If you are making a long trek, consider wearing a scarf instead for comfort. If you are looking at a long day of traveling while wearing your wig, be sure to also wear a wig cap or mesh liner to keep the wig snug and comfortable to minimize pressure and itching after those long hours.

2. Pack your wig up nicely

There are several very nice carrying cases for your wig. If you do not have a carrying case just yet, a large, soft-sided cosmetics case will do the trick! Wrap your wig neatly in a hair net and place it in a large plastic zip bag. Then, gently place that in your case and viola!

3. Bring a traveling wig stand

A traveling wig stand is a minor investment that will keep your wig in tip-top shape while traveling. At night, it will provide the wig a solid base to breathe and stay shaped and will also aid in the drying process if you need to wash it on your trip. Plastic is the most ideal for air travel, as it will easily pass through security in your carry-on. If all else fails, and you find yourself in a hotel room without a wig stand, an ice bucket turned upside down may do the trick as well.

4. Pack for your wig just as you would your own hair

Don’t forget to bring along your wig comb, brush, spray, and any other fun accessories you use. Also, to save on money, pick up some small travel size bottles of your favorite wig products.

5. Remember that your wig is temperature sensitive

If you will be traveling somewhere warm, unless you have a high-temperature wig, never leave your wig in the hot car or out in the sun. Excessive heat can permanently damage the fibers in the wig.  You should also take this into consideration if you’re planning on checking your wig with luggage that will not be temperature protected.

6. Some additional items you may want to consider:

•          A sleep cap will provide warmth at night
•          A head scarf for windy days or comfort
•          A hat to protect your skin and your wig on a sunny day
•          A second wig, additional hair pieces, extensions, accessories that will provide a different look or additional convenience during your travels 

7. Want it even more streamlined?

Keep a traveling wig case stocked with all of the aforementioned items and just pick it up and go!

"I enjoy the preparatory elements of travel- packing my bags and choosing my outfits- 

but my favourite part is getting there"

Dominic Monaghan

Article written by Brieanna Lowe

Chin Strap 101

Easily style your wig while wearing it with a chin strap. This handy little tool easily slips on and secures your wig while you style away.

Two hooks and an elastic

Attach the hooks to the wig on either side, usually by the temples.

 

Pull the bottom of the elastic to tighten the strap under the chin

Go ahead and tease, rat, style away!

 

Unhook the strap and vavavoom your ready to go!

 

This simple little strap can save you the headache of your wig coming off every time you try to get it styled just right. Grab a chin strap for the low cost of $4.00

How to keep your wig from slipping...

Does your wig slip around? Are you constantly adjusting your hair back into place? Read this post for some simple solutions on keeping your wig in place.

Since I have long hair I prefer to start off with putting my hair into a fishnet cap. These caps can be a little confusing because they are open on both ends. This is so you can wrap your hair and pin it in place.

First I place the fishnet cap around my neck like a necklace!

Then I pull it up and place the cap just around my hair line. I do not want the edge of the cap to show under my wig, so I push it just far enough back until it won't be seen. Then I wrap my hair into a tight bun and bobby pin it in place.

 

 Solution 1: Foam band with clips

To give the wig something to grip to, I wrap a foam band around my hairline and clip in place with a little prong clip.

 

If I really want to secure the wig, I will use 3 prong clips. This gives the wig 3 spots to hook to and keep from slipping.

Foam bands are $1.00

Package of Prong Clips $3.00

Total cost $4.00

For only $4.00 you might as well give it a try!

 

 Solution 2: Sure Grip Band

This simple little band is lightweight and ultra comfortable. The band has Velcro ends which makes it easy to put on. Place around hairline and Velcro ends together. Simple!

You can wear the Velcro in the front of back depending on what is the most comfortable to you.

Benefits of the Sure Grip Band:

*Secures the wig in place

*Cushions and comforts

*Prevents pressure headaches

*Temperature regulating

*Hypo-allergenic

The is the deluxe way to secure your wig!

Cost of the sure grip $35.00

 

This is only 2 of our most popular ways to help keep your wig in place. We also sell, toupee clips, clear double stick tape, glues, bobby pins, nylon caps, and more!

Don't give up on your wig, stop by and let us see what we can do to help you!

How to wash your wig

Have you ever looked at your wig and thought ahh it needs to be washed, but then thought ooh I don't know how to wash it. Yes washing this little hairdo can be scary, but it really is quite simple! Here is step by step instructions on caring for your hair.

 

Step 1

Use the right product!!

Make sure to use a shampoo formulated for your wig! A wig is too much money to skimp on such a small thing as shampoo and risk ruining your hair. We sell many different shampoos in our shop we can recommend to use.

 

 

Step 2

Mix about 1 tablespoon of wig shampoo in lukewarm water in a sink or bucket.

Do NOT use HOT water.

 

Step 3

Dip wig in and out of wash water.

DO NOT RUB

 

 Step 4

Many times the hairline gets dirty from sweat and makeup, just take a soft bristle brush and gently scrub clean. An old clean toothbrush would be a great soft scrub brush.

 

 Step 5

Rinse

(Usually I hold the wig to rinse, but I could not hold the camera, the wig, and the sprayer)

It is important to rinse the wig free of ALL soap bubbles

 

Step 6

Fold in towel

 

 Step 7

Gently pat and squeeze out excess water

 

 Step 7

Place on wire wig stand and let air dry

(Do not stretch over styro form, it will stretch the cap bigger)

The hair might look a little wonky when wet, and you may be tempted to brush it, but do not brush it. Just wait for it to dry.

 

 Step 8

Spritz with wig conditioner

Lightly spray the wig with conditioner, this will help keep the fiber soft and shiny

 

Once dry fluff with brush and style!

 

Hope these step by step instructions makes washing your wig less scary.

 

Or if you would prefer drop it off to us and let us take care of the washing and styling for you!

Here is a little coupon for $5.00 off your next service including;

restyle, wash & style, burn repair, re curl, straighten, trimming, etc.

 



HD Smooth Conditioning Detangler by Jon Renau

Enhance and prolong the beauty of synthetic wigs and hair extensions with easy-to-use HD Smooth conditioning detangler. Spray it on and comb through to eliminate tangles and frizz while restoring healthy luster and body. This is a must have for any heat defiant wig!

 

Heat Defiant Wig Care and Styling Tips

Styling Tips & Care Instructions for Heat Defiant Wigs, Extensions, and Hairpieces.

CURLING - THE 3 C’s

CURL
• Comb hair free of tangles (We recommend using a detangler for synthetic fibers)
• Take a 1 - 1.5” section of hair (Smaller sections = tighter curl, large section = looser curl).
• Gather hair in curling iron, smooth through to the ends, roll up towards weft.
• Hold for 15-20 seconds, release curl into palm. (We recommend using a SmartHeat curling iron with the heat setting set on synthetic.)

CLIP• Holding curl in one hand, gather up towards base and clip

COOL• Allow curl to cool completely, remove clip. Let curl hang naturally.• Hair can be combed (use fingers or a wide tooth comb for best results).

FLAT IRON
• Take 1-1.5” section, starting at least 2” away from base, slowly smooth flat iron down towards end, keep hair smother with a comb behind the flat iron.
• Continue through ends (2-3 times if needed).
• Allow hair to hang naturally to cool.
(Use your flat iron on the lowest/coolest setting) 

HD Care Instructions
• Gently comb through any tangles using a wide tooth comb.
• Wash with a capful of synthetic Shampoo in cool water.
• Rinse throroughly and shake out any excess water.
• Once rinsed, apply Jon Renau Conditioning Spray
• Either allow to air dry or blow dry (If using a blow dryer we recommend using the lowest heat setting)

Tip: We recommend that ONLY a wide tooth comb is used to style and/or detangle your new.

Not up to styling your wig yourself? Remember you can always bring it in to Lynne's Wig Boutique for a style, wash and style, deep conditioning treatment, and burn/frizz repair.