Quality human hair wigs are costly. This means one needs to carefully take care of it to maximize its purpose and to get your money's worth. One way to maintain the wig's quality is to wash it accordingly.
Like washing your natural hair, your wigs also need a little refresh. Essentially, you must wash anything that comes into contact with the body. Removing the oils and dirt from your extensions as they lay along the scalp, neck, forehead, back, and more is essential.
Can you wash a wig with regular shampoo?
The quick answer is yes, you can wash a wig with regular shampoo. However, you must look closely at what your shampoo is made from. It must be a regular shampoo that's paraben and sulfate-free. Usually, a regular shampoo can damage and dry your wig. Besides shampoo, you can also use conditioner to wash your wig. It keeps the wig soft, fresh-looking, shiny, and moisturized. Also, it helps the wig last longer.
How often should you wash a wig?
Experts would recommend washing the wig every six to eight wears. This lets you maintain a fresh, clean wig and prolong its life without overwashing it. When you overwash the wig, it can lead to a dull and lifeless wig and can even damage the fibers.
For people wearing their wigs daily, buying multiple wigs is advisable. They can be of the same style or different if you want to mix them up. This way, you can swap the wigs to avoid wearing them out too quickly.
How to wash a human hair wig?
While washing your wig is easy, you must consider a few steps to ensure you're cleaning the wig properly. Look closely at the guide below.
- Gently detangle the wig. You can use either a wig brush, a wide-toothed comb, or your fingers. It's essential to do this as this step helps you get rid of nasty tangles or knots before the actual washing process begins.
- Use lukewarm water to soak your wig. The easiest way is to place the wig under the sink's tap. While soaking, ensure the water runs in a similar direction to the hair. This helps the wig to be tangle-free throughout the process.
- Apply enough shampoo to the wig's crown. Slowly disperse it throughout the wig with your fingers. Start from the top down to the ends. Avoid harshly rubbing or scrubbing the wig.
- Rinse away the shampoo.Place the wig under running water. Ensure that the water is flowing in a similar direction. Gently run your fingers through the wig to wash away the shampoo.
- Condition your wig and rinse off. Repeat steps 4 and 3. Before you finish washing, you can spray it with a mist to help strengthen the wig strands.
- Gently squeeze the wig using your hands to get rid of excess water. Start from the top of your wig down to the bottom. You can use a towel to remove the excess moisture. Finally, hang the wig on a wig stand and keep the wig out of direct sunlight.
How to wash a synthetic wig?
There's a separate process for washing your synthetic wigs. As you know, the material used on this wig is different from the others. Here's how to take care of your synthetic wig.
- Smoothen the wig by using a wide-tooth comb. Be sure to gently comb the wig so as not to stretch or pull the hair fibers overly.
- Use a basin and fill it with cool water. Add enough shampoo. Remember to use those designed for washing a synthetic wig. Place the wig in the water and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse off the shampoo from the wig. Do this under running water the same way you do with the hair shape of the wig. Remove the wig from the water and refill the basin with cool, clean water.
- Condition your synthetic wig by filling the basin with fresh water. Place a capful of conditioner and dunk the wig. Slowly swish it through the water.
- Air dry the wig by placing it on the wig stand and using a towel to air it. Avoid using heat on synthetic wigs.