How Do I Care for My Wig?

Caring for your wig properly will extend its life and keep it looking its best; here's how:

General Wig Care Tips

Regardless of whether your wig is synthetic or human hair, these basic tips apply:

• Handle with Care: Avoid rough handling that can damage the fibers or cap.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape.
• Detangle Regularly: Gently detangle your wig with a wide-tooth comb or wig brush, starting from the ends and working your way up. This prevents knots and tangles from becoming severe.
• Avoid Sleeping in Your Wig: Sleeping in a wig can cause tangling and damage. If you must sleep in it, consider using a silk scarf or bonnet.

Caring for Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs require specific care to maintain their appearance and prevent damage.

• Avoid High Heat: Synthetic fibers are sensitive to heat. Use medium or low heat settings (or preferably heat-free styling methods) when using styling tools like curling irons or straighteners. Exceeding the recommended heat can melt or damage the fibers.
• Use Synthetic Wig Products: Use shampoos, conditioners, and styling products specifically designed for synthetic wigs. Regular hair products can damage synthetic fibers.
• Minimize Washing: Over-washing can lead to wear and tear. Wash your synthetic wig only when necessary (e.g., after significant product build-up or excessive wear). Typically, washing every 6-8 wears is sufficient.
• Washing Instructions:
  1. Fill a sink or basin with cool water.
  2. Add a small amount of synthetic wig shampoo.
  3. Gently submerge the wig and swirl it around. Do not rub or twist.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
  5. Apply synthetic wig conditioner.
  6. Rinse again with cool water.
  7. Gently pat the wig dry with a towel. Do not wring or twist.
  8. Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand.
• Protect From Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and damage synthetic wigs. Store your wig in a dark or shaded area when not in use.
• Static Control: Use a wig-specific anti-static spray to reduce static and frizz.

Caring for Human Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs offer more styling versatility but also require more intensive care.

• Use Quality Hair Products: Use high-quality shampoos, conditioners, and styling products designed for human hair. Sulfate-free options are often recommended to prevent dryness.
• Hydrate Regularly: Human hair wigs can become dry, so it's important to hydrate them regularly with deep conditioners or hair oils.
• Heat Styling: While you can use heat styling tools on human hair wigs, it's still important to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage. Use moderate heat settings and avoid prolonged exposure to high heat.
• Washing: Wash your human hair wig as needed, typically every 7-10 wears or when you notice product build-up.
• Washing Instructions:
  1. Gently detangle the wig before washing.
  2. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water.
  3. Add a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo.
  4. Submerge the wig and gently massage the shampoo into the hair.
  5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  6. Apply a deep conditioner, focusing on the ends.
  7. Let the conditioner sit for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  9. Gently pat the wig dry with a towel.
  10. Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head. You can also use a blow dryer on a low setting, but be cautious of excessive heat.
• Coloring: While you can color human hair wigs, it's best to have them professionally colored to avoid damage.
• Professional Care: Consider taking your human hair wig to a professional stylist for deep conditioning treatments, trimming, and other maintenance services.

By following these care tips, you can keep your wig looking beautiful and extend its lifespan.