How To Wash And Care For Human Hair And Synthetic Wigs

A wig is probably one of the most important beauty investments you’ll make with some of them costing well into thousands of dollars. Besides this, a wig is also a part of your identity, expressing your style, and boosting your self-confidence. If you want your wig to last long and look silky and natural, you need to buy from the right brand. You also need to know which type of density and length will suit better in you and will make your wig look 100% natural. If you’re still looking for the perfect wig, click here to find more information.

It becomes part of you, so it’s important to take great care of it that will give your wig a long-lasting life. First, there are two types of wigs: human hair and synthetic wigs. Each requires a somewhat different caring routine, so let’s see the best ways to pamper your wigs.

Human hair wigs

Wigs made out of natural human hair can be sometimes a hassle to maintain. Many are in doubt whether it should be treated like you would your own hair, or if there are some special rules to make it last for years. There are some general steps you should take in order to keep your wig clean and shiny.

Types of wigs

There are two types: frontal wig lace and lace covering every bit of your scalp all-around. Frontal lace is attached to the wig in the front giving the impression of a natural hairline. The lace that covers your scalp completely is attached to the wig too, but it imitates your hairline around your head. The latter is especially convenient if you plan to wear ponytails and buns. To choose the right wig for your style goes to Unice.

Washing and drying

Washing a wig straight from the box or washing it before you put it on is a matter of a personal choice. One thing is for sure: every time you give it a full wash, it shortens the wig’s quality. Sometimes you can just rinse it off instead of going through the whole process of washing and drying. Shampooing and conditioning are needed once every couple of weeks, or once a week if you’re wearing your wig during the night.

Before washing care

First, you need to detangle hair with a comb, hair pick, or with your fingertips. If the wig has curly hair, detangle it gently with your fingers, starting from the ends all the way to the roots. Then, rinse it off with cold water to remove any dirt and dust. If you have a long-haired wig, rinse it off using the showerhead to have enough maneuvering space so that you can rinse it well to the ends. Remove the excess water without twisting it, just apply gentle pressure going from the roots to the bottom, streak by streak if necessary.

Shampooing and conditioning

There are special shampoos made for human hair wigs that you should use in order to keep your wig hair clean and shiny. If you opt for regular shampoos from your local store, use the ones that are made for bleached or damaged hair since they are usually mild.

Rinse it with cold water, from the roots to the ends, gently, without any rubbing and scrubbing. Once the water runs clear, tap it down with a clean towel to remove excess water so that the wig is not dripping wet. Conditioning your human hair wig is an important step that you shouldn’t skip. A small dab will do since the conditioner goes only at the ends. Slowly, using only your fingers, spread out the conditioner across the bottom of the wig. Rinse it with cold water, and pat it down with a towel.

Drying and styling

Leave it to dry naturally, in the open air, and once it’s completely dry you can style it. Using flat irons and curling irons is not recommended since it can damage the hair, instead blow-dry it gently. When not wearing it, the best thing is to keep it on the stand to prevent tangling and deforming the shape of the lace.

Synthetic wigs

These wigs are made of fibers that are especially susceptible to damages. Taking proper care is crucial for a long lifespan, keeping it looking like new.

Washing and drying

Synthetic wigs should be washed after wearing it 8 to 10 times. Considering this, many women have several wigs with different hairstyles avoiding frequent washes. Here are the steps for properly washing and drying your wig.

Pre-washing routine

Before applying shampoo, detangle your wig using special synthetic wig’s combs or using your fingertips. Don’t pull and drag the fibers. Rinse it off with cold water, until the fibers are totally submerged to wash off any dust and prepare it for the shampooing.

Shampooing and conditioning

For synthetic fiber wig, use specially formulated shampoos that will not damage the hair. Slowly and gently spread it out across the hair, without scrubbing and twisting. One shampoo is quite enough since prolonged exposure to chemicals and water can dry out the fibers.

Gently rinse it off, again without rubbing, from top to bottom. Tap it down with the towel until it’s damp-dried, and apply a pea-sized amount of the conditioner specifically made for this type of wigs. If possible, leave it on for a few minutes for the fibers to soak it in. Rinse it with cold water, and gently dry it off with a clean towel. Synthetic fiber wigs require some extra conditioning. After towel-drying it, spray it with a leave-in conditioner to add some extra protection.

Drying and styling

Synthetic fibers should be let to air dry completely. Do not use a hairdryer, flattening or curling irons, or any other type of heat source. Only after the wig is dry, you can style it, again, without applying any heat.

As you can see taking care of your wigs can significantly extend their life. In addition, try to avoid exposure to the sun rays, saltwater if swimming in the ocean and chlorine in the swimming pools, as this can irreparably damage the strands. If possible, even with human hair wigs, avoid using heat to style your hair. The general rule of the thumb would be: the gentler you are with your hair, the longer it will serve you. Carefully maintained hair can last for years, giving you a shiny and vibrant look.