CARING FOR YOUR WIG
Looking after
your wig
A little regular care can make a big difference to how your wig looks, feels and lasts. Gentle brushing, careful handling and the right approach to washing can all help keep the fibres looking their best.
These guides cover the simple things you can do to care for your wig and keep it feeling like part of your everyday routine.
- 01 Brushing and detangling
- 02 Washing your wig
- 03 Everyday wig care
- 04 Choosing the right care products
A LITTLE CARE GOES A LONG WAY
Washing
your wig
Your wig won't need washing after every wear, but an occasional wash can help keep it feeling fresh and looking its best.
Detangle first
Before you start, gently comb through the wig to remove any tangles. Work from the ends upwards and take your time.
Prepare the water
Fill a clean basin or bowl with cold water and add a shampoo specifically designed for synthetic wigs. Follow the shampoo's instructions for the amount to use.
Let it soak
Submerge the wig and leave it to soak for around 30 minutes. There's no need to rub, scrub or work the shampoo through the fibres — simply letting it soak is enough.
If you've been wearing makeup, you can use a small amount of neat synthetic-wig shampoo and gently massage it into the front lace to help remove any residue.
Rinse thoroughly
Drain the water and rinse the wig until all the shampoo has been removed. I find the easiest way is to submerge it in a basin of clean, cold water and repeat with fresh water if needed.
Blot and hang to dry
Gently blot away excess water with a towel. Don't wring or twist the wig.
Hang it up to dry naturally, away from direct heat. You'll probably be surprised by how quickly it dries — if you wash your wig in the morning, it's often ready to wear again that evening.
Don't brush your wig while it's wet. Wet synthetic fibres are more vulnerable to stretching, so allow the wig to dry completely before gently combing it through again.
And resist the temptation to speed things up with a hairdryer. Heat can cause the fibres to drop and change the style of your wig.
GENTLE DOES IT
Brushing &
detangling
Synthetic fibres need a little more care than your own hair. Gentle brushing helps keep your wig looking smooth and helps prevent unnecessary wear on the fibres.
Start at the ends
Begin at the bottom of the wig and work upwards in small sections. Avoid pulling through tangles from the top, as this can put unnecessary strain on the fibres.
Take your time
Work gently through any knots rather than forcing the comb through. A little patience is much kinder to the fibres.
Use a wide-tooth comb
A wide-tooth comb is ideal for gently detangling synthetic fibre. Avoid brushes or combs that are likely to catch or pull at the hair.
Pay attention to the ends
The ends are usually where tangling and friction show first, particularly around the nape of the neck. Give these areas a little extra attention.
Don't over-brush your wig. If it looks good, leave it alone — synthetic fibres don't need constant brushing to stay in shape.
THE RIGHT PRODUCTS
Wig care
essentials
You don't need a cupboard full of specialist products to look after your wig. A few simple essentials can make caring for synthetic fibre easier and help you get the most from your style.
A wide-tooth comb
For gently detangling the fibres and keeping your style looking neat.
Synthetic-wig shampoo
Choose a shampoo specifically formulated for synthetic wigs when it's time for a wash.
A wig stand
Useful for letting your wig dry naturally and for storing it between wears.
Wig spray and other essentials
A light wig spray can be useful for refreshing or managing your style, depending on the fibre and the look you're after.
I've put together some of the products and tools I use and recommend if you're looking to build a simple wig-care kit.