All About Permatease - What is it and why it matters

All About Permatease in Wigs: What It Is and Why It Matters

Guest Blog Post by the Envy Team

If you’ve ever worn or shopped for wigs, you may have come across the term permatease. While it may sound technical, permatease is a common feature in many wigs that plays a key role in enhancing their overall look, comfort, and durability. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what permatease is, how it benefits wig wearers, and how to manage it for the best styling results.

What is Permatease in Wigs?

Permatease refers to short, crimped, or teased hairs strategically placed at the base of the wig’s cap. These hairs serve multiple purposes, from creating lift and volume to concealing the wig’s cap construction. Permatease is typically found in wefted wigs, where the extra volume is essential for creating a natural shape and fullness.

Benefits of Permatease in Wigs

1. Adds Volume and Lift

One of the primary functions of permatease is to give the wig a natural lift and volume. Without it, certain styles may appear flat or lifeless. Permatease ensures that wigs maintain their shape throughout the day without needing constant restyling.

2. Camouflages Cap Construction

In wigs, particularly those with wefted caps, the underlying structure of the wig can sometimes be visible through the hair. Permatease acts as a barrier, hiding wefting, seams, or other cap materials, making the wig look more natural and seamless. 

3. Prevents Friction at the Nape

Another strategic placement of permatease is at the nape area of the wig. This helps prevent excessive friction between the wig hair and your neck, which can lead to tangling or damage over time. The added lift at the nape ensures that the hair stays in place and reduces wear and tear. 

4. Creates a Natural Head Shape

Permatease is often added around the crown or round of the head to create a more realistic silhouette. This is especially important for styles that require height or fullness at the crown, mimicking the natural contours of a human head.

How to Manage Permatease

While permatease provides many benefits, some wig wearers prefer a smoother, sleeker look. If you have a wig with permatease and want to tone it down, here are a few tips:

1. Use Steam

Steaming the wig can help relax the permatease and smooth down any flyaway hairs. Use a handheld steamer and gently run it over the areas where the permatease feels too prominent.

2. Try the Envy 3-in-1 Airstyler

The Envy 3-in-1 Airstyler is a great tool for taming permatease and giving your wig a polished finish. Use it on a low heat setting to smooth down any unruly hairs while maintaining the wig’s shape and style.

Image: Before and After Smoothing Permatease with the 3-in-1 Airstyler Round Brush Attachment

3. Style Strategically

Sometimes, simply changing your part or adding accessories like headbands or clips can help reduce the appearance of permatease. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.

Looking for Less or No Permatease?

If you prefer wigs with minimal or no permatease, your best bet is to opt for hand-tied wigs. Unlike wefted wigs, hand-tied caps don’t require as much structural support, so they typically feature less permatease. This results in a sleeker, more natural look that many wig wearers love.

However, keep in mind that while hand-tied wigs offer a smoother appearance, they may lack the natural lift and volume that permatease provides.     

Fully Hand-Tied Cap
Full Hand-Tied Cap
Basic Wefted Cap

Permatease: A Necessary Feature for Many Styles

While permatease may sometimes be noticeable as short, teased hairs at the base of a wig, it serves an important purpose in creating volume, lift, and durability. Whether you love the added fullness or prefer a sleeker look, understanding permatease helps you choose the right wig for your styling needs.