Making it last

Hair from a single donor with the cuticles intact behaves like the hair it is. That's the whole point — it moves and reflects light properly. It also means it responds to being looked after, and shows it when it isn't.

Washing

Less often than you think. Wash when it stops behaving, not on a schedule. Work downward with cool water rather than piling it up and scrubbing — tangling at the root is what turns a good wig into a matted one.

Conditioning

Mid-lengths and ends only. Unlike your own hair, a wig gets no natural oil from a scalp, so the ends dry out first and fastest. Keep conditioner away from the lace and the knots.

Heat

Virgin hair takes heat, but every pass costs you something. Use the lowest setting that does the job, and don't style the same section repeatedly out of habit.

Storing

Not in a drawer. On a stand or in a satin bag, with the shape kept. Most damage happens when a wig isn't being worn — crushed, folded, or tangled in a bag between wears.

The lace

Be gentle at the edge. Swiss HD lace is fine by design, which is exactly why it tears if you pull the wig off from the front. Loosen the straps first, every time.