Wig Care 101: How to Wash and Condition Your Wig

Wigs are a fantastic way to change your hairstyle without the commitment, but they also require proper care to keep them looking fresh and long-lasting. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, knowing how to wash and condition it correctly is key to maintaining its beauty and longevity. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for washing and conditioning both synthetic and human hair wigs, including product recommendations and drying tips.

Washing Your Synthetic Hair Wig

Synthetic wigs are made from artificial fibers that mimic the look and feel of real hair. While they are low-maintenance, they do require special care when washing.

Steps for Washing Synthetic Wigs:

1. Detangle the Wig: Gently comb through your synthetic wig with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove any tangles. Always start from the tips and work your way up to the roots to avoid damaging the fibers.
2. Prepare the Water: Fill a basin or sink with cool water. Hot water can damage synthetic fibers, so always ensure the water temperature is lukewarm or cold.
3. Add Shampoo: Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo designed specifically for synthetic wigs. A good choice is Wig Care Synthetic Shampoo or Jon Renau Fiber Love Shampoo. These shampoos help cleanse without stripping the fibers of their natural shine.
4. Wash the Wig: Gently submerge the wig into the water. Swirl it around gently without rubbing or wringing the fibers, which could cause tangling or damage. Let the shampoo sit for 1-2 minutes before gently rinsing the wig in cool water.
5. Condition: After washing, apply a synthetic wig conditioner like Wig Care Synthetic Conditioner or Jon Renau Fiber Love Conditioner. These products are designed to maintain softness and reduce frizz. Pour a small amount of conditioner onto the wig, focusing on the ends, and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.

Washing Your Human Hair Wig

Human hair wigs are made from real hair and, as such, require a bit more attention to keep them in top shape. The care process is similar to washing your own natural hair, but with a few important differences.

Steps for Washing Human Hair Wigs:

1. Detangle the Wig: Just like with synthetic wigs, start by detangling the hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove knots, starting at the tips and working your way up.
2. Prepare the Water: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Hot water can cause human hair to become dry and brittle.
3. Use Shampoo: Choose a sulfate-free shampoo designed for human hair wigs. Shimmer Lights Shampoo or Pureology Hydrate Shampoo are both excellent choices for human hair wigs. These products help to maintain the hair’s natural moisture while cleansing.
4. Wash the Wig: Submerge the wig into the water and gently agitate it to lather the shampoo. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the wig, as this can cause tangling. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Condition: Apply a moisturizing conditioner designed for human hair wigs. Aussie Moist Conditioner or Matrix Biolage Hydrasource Conditioner are great options. Apply the conditioner generously from the roots to the tips and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to deeply nourish the hair.

Drying Tips for Both Synthetic and Human Hair Wigs

Proper drying is essential to keep your wig looking its best and avoid damage.

For Synthetic Wigs:

• Avoid Heat: Never use a blow dryer, curling iron, or straightener on synthetic wigs, as the heat can melt or damage the fibers. Always air-dry your wig.
• Pat Dry: After washing, gently pat the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause tangling.
• Dry on a Wig Stand: Place your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape while it dries. Ensure the wig is placed in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to avoid heat damage.

For Human Hair Wigs:

• Towel Dry: Gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the hair.
• Air Dry or Blow Dry: Human hair wigs can be blow-dried, but it’s best to use a blow dryer with a diffuser on a low heat setting to avoid heat damage. If you prefer air-drying, place the wig on a wig stand and let it dry naturally.
• Comb Through: Once the wig is dry, you can gently comb or brush it to restore its smoothness.

Additional Wig Care Tips

1. Avoid Over-Washing: Washing your wig too frequently can cause unnecessary wear. For synthetic wigs, washing every 6-8 wears is typically sufficient, while human hair wigs may need to be washed every 10-15 wears, depending on usage.
2. Store Your Wig Properly: When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin to keep its shape intact. For travel, use a wig cap or wig bag to protect the hair from tangling.
3. Protect from Sun and Sweat: Prolonged exposure to the sun or excessive sweating can damage both synthetic and human hair wigs. When you’re not wearing your wig, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.