Why Do Some Wigs Have Permutease?

Short Answer

Permutease adds volume and shape to wigs through gentle backcombing at the root. It's great for wash-and-wear styles but limits restyling. Here's how to decide if it's right for you.

Permutease (also called teasing or backcombing) adds volume and fullness to a wig by gently tangling the hair fibers at the root. It's a styling technique used during manufacturing to create lift and a more natural, dimensional look—especially at the crown and part areas. Not all wigs have it, and whether you need it depends on the style you're going for and how much maintenance you're comfortable with.

If you're new to wig shopping, terms like "permutease" can feel confusing. You're already navigating cap construction, fiber types, and density—and now there's another factor to consider. But understanding what permutease actually does will help you choose a wig that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget.

What Is Permutease in Wigs?

Permutease is a controlled teasing technique applied to wig fibers during production. The hair is gently backcombed at the root to create texture, volume, and body. It mimics the natural lift that human hair has and prevents the wig from looking flat or limp.

You'll often find permutease in synthetic wigs, especially in shorter styles, layered cuts, and wigs designed to hold a specific shape. It's what gives those styles their bounce and structure right out of the box.

Human hair wigs can also have permutease, though it's less common since human hair naturally holds volume better.

Why Do Wig Makers Use Permutease?

Permutease solves a common problem: wigs can look unnaturally flat without it. Real hair has natural oils, texture, and movement that create dimension. Wig fibers—especially synthetic ones—don't behave the same way.

By adding permutease, manufacturers create:

Volume at the crown. This is where wigs tend to collapse or look too smooth. Permutease lifts the hair away from the scalp for a more realistic appearance.

Shape retention. Teased fibers help the wig hold its intended style, so it looks the same every time you put it on.

Fullness without added density. Instead of cramming more hair into the cap (which can feel heavy), permutease creates the illusion of thickness.

It's especially helpful in pixie cuts, bobs, and other structured styles where you want consistent shape without daily styling.

Does Permutease Affect How a Wig Feels or Looks?

Yes—and this is where your wig buying guide instincts should kick in. Permutease changes both the texture and the behavior of the wig.

It can feel slightly coarser. Because the fibers are teased, the wig may feel less silky-smooth than one without permutease. This doesn't mean it's lower quality—it's just textured differently.

It adds body and bounce. If you love voluminous, styled looks that don't require effort, permutease delivers that instantly.

It may limit restyling. Permutease is designed to hold a specific shape. If you try to brush it out or restyle it, you might lose the volume and structure the manufacturer built in.

For women who want a wash-and-wear experience, permutease is a gift. For those who love to customize and experiment, it can feel restrictive.

How to Choose a Wig Based on Permutease

This is where wig shopping tips meet real life. Your decision should be based on how you want to wear your wig—not what sounds most impressive on a product page.

Choose a wig with permutease if:

You want a ready-to-wear style that looks the same every time. You prefer volume and lift without using styling tools. You're drawn to short, layered, or textured cuts. You want low-maintenance styling.

Skip permutease if:

You like to brush, restyle, or personalize your wig. You prefer sleek, smooth, or straight styles. You want maximum softness and a silky feel. You're comfortable using volumizing products or tools to create lift yourself.

Many women in our BossCrowns community say they didn't realize how much they valued permutease until they tried a wig without it—and vice versa. Both options are valid. It's about what makes you feel most like yourself.

Can You Remove or Add Permutease?

You can't easily add permutease at home, especially with synthetic fibers. Backcombing synthetic hair can damage it or create frizz that won't smooth out.

You can reduce or remove permutease by gently brushing or combing through the teased areas—but know that this will change the wig's shape and volume. Once it's gone, it's gone.

If you're unsure whether you'll like permutease, start with a wig that has light teasing or none at all. It's easier to add volume with products or techniques than to undo built-in structure.

Permutease Isn't Good or Bad—It's Just a Tool

Here's what matters: permutease is a styling choice, not a quality marker. A wig with permutease isn't automatically better or worse than one without it.

It's there to serve a specific purpose—volume, shape, and ease. Whether that aligns with how you want to wear your wig is the only question that matters.

You're not behind for not knowing this term. You're learning how to choose a wig that actually works for your life, and that's exactly where you should be.

Trust your instincts. If you love structure and ease, permutease might become your favorite feature. If you crave flexibility and softness, you'll gravitate toward wigs without it. Both paths are right.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does permutease mean in a wig?

Permutease is backcombing done at the wig's roots to create volume, lift, and shape. It helps the wig look fuller and hold its style without daily styling.

Can I brush out permutease if I don't like it?

Yes, but brushing it out will remove the volume and structure. Once it's gone, you can't easily restore it, especially in synthetic wigs.

Does permutease mean the wig is lower quality?

No. Permutease is a styling technique, not a quality indicator. It's used to create specific looks and doesn't reflect the wig's overall craftsmanship.