Do you own a wig? Then we've put together this long post to help you ensure that your wig remains clean and shiny. Wigs look fabulous but to keep them that way, it is necessary to maintain and care for them.
Don't wig out just yet! We've got you covered with all the tips and tricks you need to keep your wig looking its best. From washing to conditioning, and styling to storing, we'll guide you through the follicle-y-challenged journey of wig care. So, let's get to the root of the matter and brush up on wig maintenance. Let’s start from the basics.
Why is wig cleaning important?
First and foremost, hygiene is important, be it is your natural hair or your wig, keeping it clean is important for your scalp and hair health. A dirty wig can be uncomfortable and itchy to wear and it can cause scalp irritation, infections and damage. Sweat, oil and buildup can cause bacteria to grow on the wig and in turn it can spread infection to your scalp as well. So JUST KEEP IT CLEAN.
Secondly, the buildup of oils, styling products, and environmental pollutants can cause the wig fibers to become stiff and lose their natural shine and bounce. This can make the wig look and feel less realistic, and may even cause it to tangle more easily. By cleaning your wig regularly, you can remove these contaminants and restore its natural look and feel.
Thirdly, regular cleaning helps to prevent tangling and matting of the wig fibers. As you wear your wig, the fibers can become tangled and matted, especially in areas where there is friction, such as at the nape of the neck or behind the ears. By washing and conditioning your wig regularly, you can help to prevent these tangles and keep your wig looking and feeling great for longer.
Overall, keeping your wig clean is essential for maintaining its look, feel, and longevity. By following proper care instructions and washing your wig regularly, you can ensure that it stays comfortable, natural-looking, and tangle-free for as long as possible. Also note that if you wear a wig frequently, it is a good option to invest in a good quality wig. You can explore some of our bestselling human hair wigs.
Now let’s learn how to clean your wigs and keep them looking new and natural.
Washing Your Wig
Here's how to wash your wig properly:
Step 1: Detangle the Wig
Before washing your wig, make sure to detangle it first. Use a wig brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently brush through the wig's strands. If the wig is curly, use your fingers to detangle it. Start at the bottom of the wig and work your way up to prevent any tangling.
Step 2: Prepare the Shampoo
Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of wig shampoo or any gentle shampoo. Swish the water around to distribute the shampoo evenly.
Step 3: Wash the Wig
Place the wig in the water and gently swish it around. Use your fingers to work the shampoo through the strands, making sure to focus on the roots and nape of the wig. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wig, as this can damage the fibers.
Step 4: Rinse the Wig
Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the shampoo is removed. Gently squeeze out any excess water by scrunching, but avoid pulling or twisting the wig.
Conditioning Your Wig
Conditioning your wig is just as important as washing it. Everytime you wash your wig, make sure that you condition it right after. A good conditioner can help keep the fibers hydrated and soft. Here's how to condition your wig:
Step 1: Shampoo First
Before conditioning your wig, make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and no shampoo remains in it.
Step 2: Apply the Conditioner
Apply a small amount of deep conditioner to the wig, focusing on the ends. Avoid applying the conditioner to the roots, as this can weigh down the wig.
Step 3: Let the Conditioner Sit
Leave the conditioner on the wig for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the fibers. You can also cover the wig with a shower cap or plastic wrap to help trap in the moisture.
Step 4: Rinse the Wig
Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the conditioner is removed. Gently squeeze out any excess water,without pulling or twisting too hard.
Step 5: Dry the Wig
Place the wig on a wig head or a clean towel to air dry just like your natural hair. Avoid exposing the wig to direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the fibers. Also, do not comb the wig while it is wet as it might result in breakage. Once the wig is dry, you can brush or style it as desired.
Styling Your Wig
Next step is the real fun step - styling your wig! Yes, you can easily style your wig using different styling tools like straighteners and curling rods etc.
But, before you start styling, check that your wig is placed properly. Do not style while wearing your wig. Here is a quick guide that'll help. After this we will see how to style a wig.
Here's how to style your wig:
Step 1: Detangle the Wig
Before styling your wig, make sure to detangle it first. Use a wig brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently brush through the wig's strands. Start from the bottom of the wig and work your way up to prevent any tangling just like you do with your natural hair.
Step 2: Heat Style with Caution
If you're using heat tools to style your wig, make sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage. Use low heat settings and avoid holding the tool in one place for too long.
Step 3: Avoid Over-styling
While it's tempting to constantly style your wig, over-styling can lead to damage and decreased lifespan. Try to limit heat styling and use alternative styling methods such as braiding or twisting to switch up your look.
Step 4: Store Your Wig Properly
Caring for your wig while wearing it is important but keeping it stored safely when not in use is also equally important. So when you take off your wig, always detangle and store is nicely using a mannequin head or a satin/silk hair carrier. Also keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Additional Wig Care Tips
Here are some additional tips to help keep your wig looking its best:
- Avoid sleeping in your wig, as this can cause tangling and damage.
- Don't use regular hair products on your wig, as they can be too harsh and lead to damage. Only use wig-specific products.
- If you're wearing your wig for an extended period, take breaks to allow your scalp to breathe.
Conclusion
Maintenance is the key to keep anything happy and healthy. Be it your relationship or your wig, it demands attention, love and care. By following some simple tips and taking care of your wig, you can keep it looking as good as new.
Ensure that you use wig-specific products for washing and conditioning your wig. Regular shampoo and conditioner can be too harsh and may cause damage to the wig fibers. Instead, opt for gentle, wig-specific products that are designed to clean and condition without causing damage. It's also important to avoid over-styling your wig. While it can be tempting to try out new styles and looks, excessive heat styling or chemical treatments can cause damage to the wig, leading to tangling, matting, and a loss of shine and bounce. If you do want to style your wig, consider using low-heat tools and only styling occasionally to minimize the risk of damage. Treat your wig with love and care and it will last you for years and years.
FAQs
How often should I wash my wig?
Washing you wig is a matter of basic hygiene. You wash your hair when you feel they are oily and dirty, the same goes for your wig. When you've used your wig 5-8 times and feel like there is some build-up, wash it.
Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on my wig?
No, regular hair products are too harsh for wig fibers and can lead to damage. Use wig-specific products that are formulated to cleanse and condition gently. Alternatively use a mild,
How can I prevent tangling in my wig?
To prevent tangling, brush your wig regularly with a wig brush or wide-tooth comb, avoid using excessive heat, and store it properly on a wig stand or mannequin head when not in use.
Can I dye my wig?
It depends on the type of wig you have. Synthetic wigs cannot be dyed, but natural human hair wigs can be coloured as per your preference. Always check with the manufacturer or a wig specialist before attempting to dye your wig.
