How Do Wicks Work Hair?

A hair wick is a piece of synthetic or real hair that is attached to natural hair to enhance a hairstyle. The purpose of wicks is to add length, thickness, color, or texture to one’s existing hair. Wicks allow people to experiment with different looks by adding fun, unique details. They are a creative way to accessorize or transform your hairstyle without undergoing drastic chemical treatments or cutting your own hair.

Wicks first became popular with Rastafarian dreadlocks in the 1970s, but today they are used by people of all cultures and hair types. When applied to dreadlocks, they help sections of hair (called locks) grow longer and thicker. Some of the most common modern styles incorporating wicks include color-tipped locks, faux mohawks, and ponytails.

Materials

Wicks can be made from various materials including cotton, nylon, acrylic and human hair. Cotton is a natural fiber that absorbs moisture well, allowing the wick to draw oils from the scalp down the hair shaft. Nylon and acrylic are synthetic fibers that are less absorbent but provide a smooth texture. Human hair offers the most natural look and feel. Quality is important when selecting materials – higher quality fibers like Egyptian or Pima cotton will be softer and more durable.

The most common materials used are:

• 100% cotton yarn – soft, natural fibers that absorb oil
• Acrylic fibers – synthetic, less absorbent but add fullness
• Human hair – creates the most natural looking wicks

The choice of fiber depends on the desired look and feel. Those with natural hair tend to prefer cotton for its absorption and soft texture against the scalp. Synthetics like acrylic can provide volume and sheen. Remy human hair offers versatile styling and a seamless blend with natural hair.

Construction

Wick dreadlocks are assembled by taking small sections of hair and looping or “wicking” additional hair strands into the section. This is done using a latch hook crochet needle made specifically for dreadlocks. The stylists will separate out a 1-2 inch section of hair, then take the crochet needle and pull additional strands of hair through the section repeatedly to build up the wick dreadlock.

According to Curl Centric, the stylist starts near the roots and pulls the crochet tool in and out of the section repeatedly to wick hair all around the loc. This stitching process creates a knitted look as strands are looped through the section. The end result is a cylindrical, rope-like dreadlock that contains crocheted-together strands of hair throughout its length.

Absorption

Human hair wigs use capillary action to absorb and distribute natural oils along the hair shaft. The cuticle, or outer layer, of each strand of human hair has microscopic scales that enable oils to travel up the hair shaft. When oil is applied to a human hair wig, the oils get trapped between the cuticle scales and are drawn up the hair through capillary action, allowing the hair to absorb the oil over time.

Unlike real hair growing from the scalp, wigs lack sebaceous glands that secrete natural moisturizing oils. This is why applying hair oil to a human hair wig can help provide much-needed hydration and sheen. Oils like coconut, argan, and olive oil contain fatty acids and nutrients that penetrate into the hair shaft to condition, soften, and strengthen the hair fibers.

The absorption rate of oils depends on the porosity and texture of the human hair used to construct the wig. Hair classified as high porosity quickly absorbs oils and moisture. Lower porosity hair has tightly sealed cuticles that limit absorption. Curly and kinky hair textures tend to be more porous and absorb oil more readily than straight, silky hair.

Applying oil to human hair wigs once or twice a week will help keep the hair lubricated and looking shiny and healthy. Just be careful not to over-oil the hair, as too much oil can make the hair look limp and greasy. Lightly applying oils along the length of the hair and avoiding the roots is best for optimal hydration and bounce.[1]

Capillary Action

Capillary action is the primary mechanism by which candle wicks absorb wax. It is the ability of a liquid to flow against gravity in a narrow space such as in porous materials like a candle wick. This occurs because of intermolecular forces between the liquid and the solid surrounding surface. The adhesive forces between the liquid and the solid cause the liquid to be “pulled” up into the narrow tube against the force of gravity.

The narrower the tube, the higher the liquid can be pulled up inside it. A candle wick is composed of thin strands of fiber that when bunched together create many tiny tubes for capillary action to occur. When the candle is lit, the heat from the flame melts the wax around the wick which is then absorbed up into these narrow fibers through capillary action. This brings fresh melted wax toward the flame so it can be vaporized and burned.

The wick material is specifically designed to maximize capillary action. According to the laws of physics, liquids in narrow spaces can defy gravity because of the cohesiveness between molecules. The narrower the conduit, the higher liquids are pulled up. Wicks create many tiny conduits that allow melted wax to be pulled up efficiently.

This capillary action continues as long as the candle is burning, constantly transporting liquefied wax to the flame. It is an elegant passive system that fuels the candle flame as long as there is wax available to melt.

Wick Sizes

Wicks for wigs come in a variety of diameters, lengths, and shapes to accommodate different hair types and styles. Some common sizes include:

Diameters:

• 0.5mm – Very thin wicks good for short styles
• 0.75mm – Thin wicks suitable for straight, fine hair
• 1mm – Average thickness good for medium or wavy hair
• 1.25mm – Thicker wicks for very curly or thick hair

Lengths:

• 2 inches – Short wicks for bobs or pixie cuts
• 3-4 inches – Medium wicks suitable for chin-length hairstyles
• 5-8 inches – Long wicks for shoulder-length or longer styles

Shapes:

• Straight – For straight hairstyles or tracks/rows
• Wavy – Provide subtle body and movement
• Crimped – Extra texture for very curly styles

Thicker, longer wicks with more texture are best for creating volume and curl. Thinner, shorter wicks work well for straight styles wanting a sleek look. Most wig manufacturers offer an assortment of wick sizes to cater to various clients’ hair needs.

Source: https://www.simplywigs.co.uk/blog/wig-size-guide/

Attachment Methods

There are several ways to attach wigs and hair extensions to your natural hair or scalp. Some common attachment methods include:

Clips

Clip-in hair extensions use small, claw-like clips along the bottom of the weft to temporarily attach each weft to your natural hair. Clips allow for easy application and removal. They don’t damage natural hair like some methods. However, clips can slide out of place and are not suitable for long-term wear.

Ties

Some wigs and wefts use ribbon ties, silk ties, or velcro ties to attach the hair. Ties allow you to securely fasten the extensions in place. However, constantly tying and untying ribbons can damage both the ribbons and your natural hair over time.

Adhesive

Liquid adhesive glues like wig tape, bonding glue, or toupee tape can temporarily adhere wigs and wefts to your scalp or natural hair. Adhesives provide a secure hold for several weeks or months. However, removing the adhesive can irritate sensitive scalps.

Sewing

A professional stylist may sew wefts, tracks, or a lace wig base along your natural hairline using a needle and thread. This creates a very flat, seamless look. However, sewing is more damaging to natural hair than other methods. It also makes wig removal very difficult.

Styling

Wicks can be blended into various hairstyles to create unique looks. Some popular ways to style wicks include:

For women, wicks can be combined with braids, twists, or left loose for a bohemian look. Small wicks woven through styled natural hair creates texture and fullness. Long wicks can be wrapped into buns or ponytails. Thin, wispy wicks along the hairline soften and frame the face.

For men, wicks are often combined with short twists, locs, or a fade. Styling wicks with the sides and back shaved close creates contrast. Wicks can also be braided back into cornrows or styled up into a man bun. Leaving the ends of wicks loose while styling the roots upwards makes the style edgy.

No matter your gender expression, wicks allow you to get creative. Blend wicks seamlessly into any hairstyle by matching the thickness and styling to your other hair. With the right styling techniques, wicks give you versatility to switch up your look.

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Maintenance

Properly maintaining hair wicks is crucial for keeping them looking neat and clean. Here are some tips for maintenance:

Cleaning: Regularly wash wicks by wetting them and massaging shampoo through the strands. Rinse thoroughly. Allow them to air dry or gently squeeze excess water with a towel. Avoid rubbing wicks as this can cause frizz and tangles. Use a clarifying shampoo weekly to remove buildup (lionlocs.com/blogs/dreadlocks/wicks).

Storage: When not being worn, store wicks in a sealed plastic bag or container. This prevents dust and dirt from settling into the strands (fashionisers.com/2022/02/09/useful-wick-care-tips-that-will-help-you-maintain-your-hair/).

Replacing: Over time, wicks may become overly tangled or thin. It’s recommended to replace them every 4-6 months for best results. Carefully cut out the old wick strands and install a new set. Be gentle when removing to avoid pulling out your natural hair.

Conclusion

In summary, wicks work by absorbing oil from the scalp via capillary action. The fibres that make up the wick draw the oil along the strands through this phenomenon. Proper construction and materials are key to ensuring the wick functions optimally. Choosing the right size wick and attaching it securely allows for maximum oil absorption. Maintaining wicks by washing and conditioning regularly is important to preserve the hair and avoid buildup. Using wicks properly helps keep hair and scalp healthy by removing excess oils. This is critical for avoiding problems like dandruff, greasiness, and irritation. Wicks are an effective hair care tool when selected and cared for appropriately.

Understanding how wicks utilize capillary action provides insight into their usefulness for scalp health. With this knowledge, people can select high-quality wicks constructed from absorbent fibres. Proper use and care makes wicks a valuable part of a hair care regimen. By learning about wick functionality, consumers can keep their hair and scalp in great condition.