How to Style a Finger Wave Synthetic Wig for Vintage Looks

Quick Answer

To style a finger wave synthetic wig for vintage looks, start with clean, dry fibers, then use low heat and your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to shape the waves, setting each section with a light hold spray or steam.

Step-by-Step Finger Wave Styling Process

1. Prep the Wig: Place the wig on a foam head or mannequin. Gently brush through the fibers with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove any tangles. Avoid pulling the waves straight. Common mistake: using a fine-tooth brush can flatten the wave pattern. Always use fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
2. Dampen the Fibers: Lightly mist the wig with water from a spray bottle until the fibers are damp but not soaking. This helps the waves reset without heat. Checkpoint: if your wig has a lace front, avoid saturating the lace area to prevent lifting or damage.
3. Shape the Waves with Fingers: Starting at the part, use your index and middle fingers to pinch and guide the damp hair into S-curves. Work section by section, pressing the wave crests against the cap. For a tighter wave, use small duckbill clips to hold each curve in place. Common mistake: trying to create waves that go against the fixed part direction. Always work with the part, not against it.
4. Set the Waves with Low Heat or Steam: If using a heat tool, set it to low (below 300°F/150°C) and hover it over the clipped waves—do not press directly. Alternatively, hold a handheld steamer 6 inches away for 5 seconds per section. Let the fibers cool completely before removing clips. Checkpoint: never use a flat iron directly on synthetic fibers unless the manufacturer confirms it's safe. The Mara wig's heat resistant fiber allows low heat, but always test on a small hidden strand first.
5. Lock in the Style: Once the waves are cool and dry, apply a light-hold hairspray designed for synthetic wigs. Hold the can 8-10 inches away and mist evenly. Avoid heavy sprays that can make the fibers sticky or stiff. Common mistake: using regular hairspray can leave residue. Use only products labeled safe for synthetic wigs.
6. Maintain Between Wears: Store the wig on a foam head to preserve the wave shape. To refresh, lightly mist with water and finger-comb the waves back into place. Avoid sleeping in the wig to prevent flattening. Checkpoint: if the waves start to lose definition, repeat steps 2-5 instead of trying to reshape dry fibers.

Product Facts

• Natural Black Finger Wave Wig Mara: The Mara wig is made from heat resistant fiber and has a fixed side part with a 16-inch length. You can use low heat tools to refresh the waves, but the fixed part means you should style the waves to flow away from that part for the most natural vintage look.