What Is the Best Thing to Wash a Wig With

What Are the Different Types of Wigs and Their Care Requirements?

There are two main types of wigs – human hair wigs and synthetic hair wigs. Each type has unique characteristics and care requirements.

Human Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs are made from real human hair, so they look and feel very natural. They are more versatile in styling as they can be curled, straightened, and dyed just like natural hair. However, they are also more expensive and require more maintenance.

Human hair wigs should be washed every 7-14 days if worn daily. Use products specifically formulated for human hair wigs or color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Be gentle when washing to avoid tangling. Deep condition regularly. Allow to air dry and style with low heat.

Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are made from man-made fibers designed to look like human hair. They are pre-styled and hold their shape well, even after washing. They are less expensive than human hair wigs and require less upkeep. However, they are not as versatile in styling and have a shorter lifespan.

Synthetic wigs should be washed every 4-6 wears. Always use products made for synthetic wigs as regular products can damage the fibers. Wash in cool water and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle. Do not use heat to style. Allow to air dry on a wig stand.

Why Is Proper Wig Care Important?

Proper wig care is crucial to maintain the appearance, feel, and longevity of the wig. Without the right care, wigs can quickly become damaged, tangled, and lose their shape and luster.

Wigs endure wear and tear from daily use, exposure to the elements, styling products, and improper handling. Oils and sweat from the scalp can also build up on the wig cap, leading to odors and damage to the fibers.

Regular washing with the right products removes dirt, oils, and styling product buildup. It restores volume and softness. Conditioning is important to keep fibers moisturized and prevent tangling and frizz.

Using the wrong products or techniques can dry out the hair, cause frizz and tangles, or even ruin the wig. Heat damage is a common issue, especially with synthetic wigs.

With proper care, a good quality wig can last for a long time, maintaining its beauty and natural movement. It’s an investment worth protecting.

How Do You Choose the Right Products for Your Wig Care?

Choosing the right products is important to keeping your wig looking its best. The number one factor is whether your wig is made from human hair or synthetic fibers, as they have different requirements.

For human hair wigs, look for products specifically designed for wigs or high-quality, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners for color-treated hair. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can dry out the hair.

For synthetic wigs, it’s crucial to use products made specifically for synthetic fibers. Regular hair products can damage the wig. Synthetic wig shampoos are mild and specially formulated not to strip away the fibers’ shine and movement.

When choosing products, consider your wig’s unique needs:

• For curly or textured wigs, look for moisturizing products that define curls without weighing them down.
• For straight wigs, volumizing products can help maintain body and lift.
• For color-treated wigs, use color-safe products to prevent fading.
• For wigs with special features like lace fronts or monofilament caps, choose products that won’t damage these delicate areas.

Read labels carefully and opt for products from reputable wig brands or those recommended by wig experts. Avoid heavy oils and waxes that can build up on the fibers and be difficult to remove.

When in doubt, less is more. Start with a small amount of product and add more if needed. Over-conditioning can make the wig limp and greasy.

What Are the Best Products for Wig Care?

The best products for wig care depend on the type of wig and its specific needs. Here are some top picks for both human hair and synthetic wigs:

For Human Hair Wigs

• Shampoo: Look for sulfate-free shampoos that are gentle on the hair. Some good options are:
  • BeautiMark Cleanse Shampoo
  • Jon Renau Argan Smooth Luxury Shampoo
  • Revlon Texturizing Cleanser for Human Hair Wigs
• Conditioner: Choose a lightweight, moisturizing conditioner. Avoid heavy creams that can weigh down the hair. Recommendations include:
  • BeautiMark Nourish Conditioner
  • Jon Renau Argan Smooth Luxury Conditioner
  • Revlon Moisturizing Conditioner for Human Hair Wigs
• Leave-in Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can provide extra moisture and detangling benefits. Try:
  • Jon Renau Argan Smooth Leave-In Conditioner
  • Brandywine Non-Aerosol Wig Spray
• Styling Products: Use lightweight products designed for wigs to style and hold the hair in place. Some options are:
  • Jon Renau Argan Smooth Styling Cream
  • BeautiMark Shaping Creme
  • Brandywine Wig Styling Mousse

For Synthetic Wigs

• Shampoo: Use a shampoo specifically formulated for synthetic wigs to gently clean without stripping fibers. Good choices include:
  • BeautiMark Synthetic Cleanse Shampoo
  • Jon Renau Synthetic Wig Shampoo
  • Revlon Synthetic Wig Shampoo
• Conditioner: Synthetic wig conditioners add moisture and shine back to the fibers. Try:
  • BeautiMark Synthetic Nourish Conditioner
  • Jon Renau Synthetic Wig Conditioner
  • Revlon Synthetic Wig & Hair Piece Conditioner
• Detangler: A leave-in detangling spray makes combing through the wig easier and prevents frizz. Recommendations are:
  • Jon Renau Fiber Love Leave-In Conditioning Spray
  • BeautiMark Fiber Strengthener
• Luster Spray: A light shine spray can refresh synthetic wigs between washes. Some options:
  • BeautiMark Shine Spray
  • Brandywine Wig Luster Spray

A little product goes a long way, especially on synthetic wigs. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

How Do You Wash a Human Hair Wig?

Washing a human hair wig requires gentle handling to prevent tangling and damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Detangle: Before washing, gently comb through the wig with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. If the wig is curly or textured, use your fingers to detangle.
2. Fill sink: Fill a sink or basin with cool to lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can damage the hair and cause the wig cap to stretch or shrink.
3. Add shampoo: Add a small amount of wig shampoo or gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to the water. Swish it around to mix but don’t create too many suds.
4. Submerge and soak: Turn the wig inside out and submerge it in the water. Gently swish it around and let it soak for 5-10 minutes. This allows the shampoo to break down oils and dirt.
5. Rinse: Drain the sink and rinse the wig under running water until the water runs clear. Be sure to rinse the cap thoroughly as this is where oils and sweat can build up.
6. Condition: Fill the sink with fresh lukewarm water and add a small amount of wig conditioner. Turn the wig right side out and submerge it. Work the conditioner into the hair, avoiding the roots and cap. Let it soak for 2-5 minutes.
7. Final rinse: Rinse the wig thoroughly under running water until all the conditioner is removed. Gently squeeze out excess water, but do not wring or twist the wig as this can cause damage.
8. Blot and air dry: Lay the wig on a towel and blot gently to remove excess water. Do not rub or wring the hair. Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head and allow it to air dry naturally. Do not use a blow dryer unless it’s on a very low, cool setting.
9. Style: Once the wig is completely dry, style as desired with wig-safe styling products and tools. Use low heat settings on styling tools to prevent damage.

Washing frequency depends on wear, but aim to wash your human hair wig every 7-14 days if worn daily, or every 10-20 wears. With proper care, human hair wigs can last for several months to a year or more.

How Do You Wash a Synthetic Wig?

Washing a synthetic wig is similar to washing a human hair wig, but with a few key differences. Here’s how to do it:

1. Detangle: Gently comb through the wig with a wide-tooth comb before washing. If the wig is curly, use your fingers to detangle. Be extra careful as synthetic fibers are more prone to stretching and breakage.
2. Fill sink: Fill a sink or basin with cool water. Never use hot water as it can damage synthetic fibers and cause the wig to lose its shape.
3. Add shampoo: Add a small amount of shampoo specifically formulated for synthetic wigs to the water. Regular shampoos can be too harsh. Swish the water to mix but don’t create too many suds.
4. Submerge and soak: Turn the wig inside out and submerge it in the soapy water. Gently swish it around and let it soak for 3-5 minutes. Don’t rub or scrub the wig as this can cause frizzing and tangling.
5. Rinse: Drain the sink and rinse the wig thoroughly under cool running water until the water runs clear. Be sure to rinse the cap well.
6. Condition (optional): If the wig feels dry or frizzy, you can condition it with a synthetic wig conditioner. Fill the sink with fresh cool water, add a small amount of conditioner, and submerge the wig. Swish gently and let soak for 2-3 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
7. Blot and air dry: Gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Do not wring, twist, or rub the wig. Place it on a wig stand and allow it to air dry completely. Do not use a blow dryer or any heat styling tools.
8. Style: Once fully dry, gently comb or brush the wig into the desired style. You may need to use your fingers to separate and style curls or waves. Use a light holding spray formulated for synthetic wigs if needed.

Synthetic wigs should be washed less frequently than human hair wigs, typically every 10-20 wears depending on your lifestyle and environment. Over-washing can cause fibers to deteriorate faster. With proper care, synthetic wigs can last an average of 4-6 months with daily wear.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Wigs?

Washing a wig improperly can lead to damage, tangling, and reduced lifespan. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using hot water: Hot water can damage both human hair and synthetic wigs, causing dryness, frizziness, and loss of shape. Always use cool to lukewarm water when washing wigs.
2. Using the wrong products: Regular hair care products are often too harsh for wigs, especially synthetic ones. They can strip away the fibers’ shine and softness. Always use products specifically formulated for wigs and the correct fiber type.
3. Rubbing or scrubbing: Aggressively rubbing or scrubbing a wig can cause tangling, frizzing, and breakage. Handle wigs gently, swishing them in the water rather than rubbing.
4. Applying conditioner to the roots: Conditioner can cause the knots at the base of the wig to slip, leading to shedding. Apply conditioner only to the mid-lengths and ends of the wig, avoiding the roots and cap.
5. Wringing or twisting: Wringing or twisting a wig to remove excess water can stretch and damage the fibers, especially on synthetic wigs. Instead, gently blot the wig with a towel.
6. Brushing when wet: Wigs are most fragile when wet. Brushing or combing a wet wig can cause stretching and breakage. Wait until the wig is completely dry before styling.
7. Using heat styling tools: Heat can be very damaging to wigs, particularly synthetic ones. Avoid using blow dryers, curling irons, or straighteners on synthetic wigs. If you must use heat on a human hair wig, use the lowest setting and a heat protectant spray.
8. Over-washing: Washing a wig too frequently can dry out the fibers and shorten its lifespan. Stick to the recommended washing frequency based on the wig type and your wear.
9. Not detangling before washing: Washing a tangled wig can worsen knots and lead to matting. Always gently detangle the wig with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers before washing.
10. Drying on a flat surface: Laying a wet wig on a flat surface to dry can cause the fibers to become misshapen and the cap to stretch out of shape. Always dry wigs on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain their shape.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following proper washing techniques, you can keep your wig looking beautiful and extend its life.

What Are the Expert Tips for Maintaining Wig Quality?

In addition to proper washing, there are several expert tips for maintaining the quality and longevity of your wig:

1. Store properly: When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity, which can damage fibers.
2. Brush gently: Use a wig brush or wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your wig before and after each wear. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots to avoid breakage. Be extra gentle with synthetic wigs.
3. Use a wig cap: Wearing a wig cap under your wig can help absorb oils and sweat from your scalp, keeping the wig cleaner for longer. It also provides a barrier to prevent any irritation from the wig cap.
4. Rotate wigs: If you wear wigs daily, consider having several that you can rotate. This gives each wig a break and allows it to fully dry and regain its shape between wears, reducing wear and tear.
5. Use wig accessories: Wig caps, liners, and headbands can help your wig fit more comfortably and securely. They also provide a barrier to prevent oils and sweat from your scalp from building up on the wig cap.
6. Handle with care: Always handle your wig gently, especially when washing and styling. Avoid rubbing, wringing or twisting the hair, which can cause tangling and damage to the fibers.
7. Avoid heat: Heat styling tools can be very damaging to wigs, particularly synthetic ones. If you must use heat on a human hair wig, keep it on the lowest setting and use a heat protectant spray. Never use heat on a synthetic wig unless it is specifically designed to be heat-friendly.
8. Protect from the elements: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, chlorine, and saltwater can fade and damage both human hair and synthetic wigs. Wear a hat or scarf over your wig for protection in these environments.
9. Regular maintenance: In addition to washing, regular maintenance like detangling, conditioning, and restyling helps keep your wig looking its best. Treat your wig like you would your own hair – the more love and care you give it, the longer it will last.

How Do You Spot Clean a Wig?

In between full washes, you may need to spot clean your wig to remove dirt, makeup, or odors. Here’s how:

1. Detangle: Gently brush or comb through the wig to remove any tangles.
2. Mix solution: In a small bowl, mix a capful of wig shampoo or gentle baby shampoo with cool water until it bubbles.
3. Spot clean: Dip a clean cloth or cotton swab into the solution and gently dab at the soiled areas. Don’t rub, as this can damage the fibers.
4. Rinse: Using a clean, damp cloth, dab at the cleaned areas to rinse away the soap. Be careful not to get the wig too wet.
5. Blot and air dry: Gently blot the damp areas with a towel to remove excess water. Allow the wig to air dry completely on a wig stand before wearing or storing.

Spot cleaning is useful for quick touch-ups, but it shouldn’t replace regular full washes. If your wig has an odor, looks dull, or feels sticky, it likely needs a complete wash.

How Do You Deal With Wig Frizz and Humidity?

Frizz and flyaways are common wig problems, especially in humid environments. Here are some tips to tame the frizz:

• Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray made for wigs. These products add moisture and help smooth the hair cuticle to reduce frizz.
• For synthetic wigs, try a light silicone-based serum or spray designed to add shine and control frizz. Use sparingly to avoid build-up.
• When styling, use a vent brush or wide-tooth comb instead of a regular brush which can cause static and frizz.
• Avoid heat styling as much as possible, as this can dry out and damage the fibers leading to more frizz. If you must use heat, keep it on a low setting.
• Store your wig properly in a cool, dry place inside a silk or satin bag. This reduces friction and moisture absorption that can cause frizz.
• If frizz persists, you may need to have your wig professionally conditioned and styled to get it back in shape.

A little frizz can actually make a wig look more natural. Embrace some imperfection and don’t stress over every flyaway. With proper care and the right products, you can minimize frizz and keep your wig looking smooth and sleek.

How Can You Restore Wig Softness?

Over time and with regular use, wigs can start to feel dry and straw-like. Restoring softness and shine is key to keeping your wig looking natural and healthy. Here’s how:

For Human Hair Wigs:

• Deep condition regularly, at least once a month or more if the wig feels especially dry. Use a deep conditioning mask or hot oil treatment made for human hair wigs and follow the instructions for application and processing time.
• After washing, use a leave-in conditioner to add extra moisture and softness. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots and cap.
• Avoid excessive heat styling which can dry out and damage the hair. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant product first.

For Synthetic Wigs:

• Use a silicone-based conditioning spray made for synthetic wigs to add shine and softness. Spray lightly and evenly over the wig, then gently comb through to distribute.
• For deep conditioning, mix a capful of synthetic wig conditioner with cool water in a sink or basin. Submerge the wig and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Gently squeeze out excess water (don’t wring or twist) and let air dry on a wig stand.
• Avoid heat and harsh brushing which can frizz and damage synthetic fibers. Finger style or use a wig comb/brush gently to detangle.

For both types, storing your wig properly between wears can also help maintain softness. Keep it on a wig stand or mannequin head inside a silk or satin bag to prevent tangles and dryness.

With consistent conditioning and gentle handling, you can restore softness and luster to your wig, keeping it looking and feeling beautiful wear after wear.

What Are the Alternative Cleaning Products for Synthetic Wigs?

While it’s always best to use products specifically designed for wigs, there are some alternative cleaning solutions you can use in a pinch for synthetic wigs:

• Baby shampoo: A mild, tear-free baby shampoo can work well to gently clean synthetic wigs. Look for one that is unscented and clear in color to avoid any potential residue or darkening of light-colored wigs.
• Woolite or other delicate fabric detergents: Mild laundry detergents designed for delicate fabrics can be used to wash synthetic wigs. Use a small amount (about a teaspoon) and mix with cool water. Avoid any detergents with bleach or harsh chemicals.
• Baking soda: For a clarifying wash to remove product build-up, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with your regular wig shampoo. Use sparingly, as baking soda can be drying if used too frequently.
• Apple cider vinegar: An apple cider vinegar rinse can help remove residue and restore shine to synthetic wigs. Mix 2 tablespoons of ACV with 2 cups of cool water and pour over the wig after shampooing. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
• Synthetic wig spray cleaners: There are spray cleaners made specifically for quick cleaning and refreshing synthetic wigs between washes. These can be useful for spot cleaning or freshening up a wig if you don’t have time for a full wash.

These are alternatives and should not fully replace wig-specific products in your regular care routine. Always handle the wig gently during washing, rinse thoroughly in cool water, and allow to air dry completely on a wig stand before styling or wearing.

With the right care products and techniques, you can keep your synthetic wig clean, soft, and beautiful for as long as possible.