Washing a synthetic wig

Does your wig need a refresh?
Do you think it’s come to the end of its days?
NO WAY!

Washing your wig depends on how often you wear it.
Synthetic fibres absorb pollution the same way human hair does, we recommend you wash your wig every 5-10 wears.

NOTE:- Washing everyday will just shorten the lifespan of the wig.

It is strongly advised to use a special wig shampoo and conditioner, as human hair products can be to harsh on synthetic hair. A baby shampoo can be used as a alternative as these are very gentle. We have seen a tip about conditioning a wig with fabric softener, but we strongly advise against this! As these to can be too harsh for synthetic wigs.

You will need:
A wide tooth comb, wig brush such as a loop bristle or metal brush with round ended pins.
A bowl, or a sink for water.
Wig shampoo and conditioner.
Wig Leave in conditioner.
A clean towel.

Detangling and preparing the hair
1. First you will need to remove any tangles and knots from the wig. Use a wide toothed comb or metal/loop specialised brush, starting from the ends of the hair, brush in a downward motion. Finishing at the roots.

NOTE: Never comb or brush a wet wig as this causes breakage!

2. Add tepid water to the bowl. Tepid water is advised as this will help hold the style.
Hot water may reduce the definition of curls or waves.

NOTE: Never use very hot/boiling water as this could melt the fibers and cause breakage!

Shampooing
3. Add a small amount of shampoo, to the water and mix into the water. Immerse the wig into the water, leave to soak for a few minutes. Use gentle squeezing actions to loosen dirt and debris, you can use a soft toothbrush along the circumference of the wig to help to remove glue, or tape residue.

NOTE: Never wring out the wig, as this may cause breakage to the cap and hair.

4. Next rinse the wig in cold water to remove any soapy residue.
Fill the bowl with cold water or rinse under a running tap. Rinse by gently squeezing the wig, do this until the water runs clear.

5. Squeeze excess water out of the wig with your hands.
Then place the wig on a towel, fold the dry towel over the wig to absorb any excess water.

Conditioning
6. Add a small amount of conditioner, work it through the hair and leave for a few minutes. Then repeat the rinsing process.

NOTE: Leave in conditioner sprays, work wonders on synthetic hair. Providing moisture, they are excellent for wigs, in between washes to help detangle and reduce static.

Drying
7. Next step is to dry the wig, it’s best to place the wig on a headstand, this allows the air to move freely through the style and dry quicker.

NOTE: Do not dry a wig on a mannequin head, as this may stretch the construction cap when wet. And never put on a radiator, as they will be too hot.

You can use a hairdryer BUT as for longer styles they may become tangled. When using a hairdryer it must be on the low setting for heat. Ideally with an air concentrator fixed to the nozzle for better control.

Once your wig is completely dry, wear as it is or style the wig as you please, see How to heat style a synthetic wig.