How to Wash A Synthetic Wig? 4 Easy Steps To Follow

Charity-Nasike-author
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how to wash syntheric wigs

The advancement made in synthetic wigs makes them easy to manipulate and maintain.  And, washing synthetic wigs is a good way to make them look beautiful and durable.

Many people find the process complicated. They often wonder how to wash a synthetic wig the right way without damage.

In this post, you will learn how to do it easily. Let’s get started! 

What You Need for Washing a Synthetic Wig?

The recommended items for washing synthetic wigs need to be gentle on the fibers. Here is a list of tools you will need.

  • Wig Brush
  • Synthetic Wig Shampoo 
  • Conditioner 
  • Towel 
  • Wig Stand
  • Large Bowl/Sink 

How to Wash A Synthetic Wig? (Step By Step)

Washing a synthetic wig is quite different from human hair wigs. Follow the steps below to revive your synthetic wig.

STEP 1: Detangle

Begin by brushing using short strokes to eliminate knots, tangles, and any spay buildups on the hair fibers. Brush through your wig gently from the bottom as you work your way up.

Moreover, ensure you use a wig brush or wide-toothed comb to avoid ripping off and damaging the fibers. Also, it is best not to brush the wig when wet; otherwise, it will get more frizzy.

Detangle Synthetic Hair

STEP 2: Soak

Take a large bowl and fill it halfway with cold water. Add one to two tablespoons of wig shampoo, depending on the buildup on your wig.

In this case, use a wig shampoo for synthetic hair instead of human hair shampoo as it will damage synthetic fibers.

Soak Synthetic Hair

Swirl the mixture using your fingers to form suds. Put your wig inside the cold water and let it soak for about 5 to 10 minutes. Depending on how dirty the wig is, you can let it soak a little longer.

Note: If the wig is prone to tangling, you need to skip the soaking. Instead, hold it up and allow water to run over it from the top to the ends. This way, you can avoid any more knots.

soak synthetic wigs

STEP 3: Wash

After soaking, take the wig and dip it up and down in the water. If you spot makeup debris on the cap, remove them using your fingers. You can work with a toothbrush or a soft mini brush to remove tough stains.

Run cold water on the wig and rinse thoroughly while gently on the strands. Continue rinsing as you change the water until it becomes clear.

wash synthetic wigs

Then refill the bowl with cool, clean water and add one to two tablespoons of synthetic wig conditioner. Dip the wig in the solution and work the wig strands using your fingers.

The next step is to rinse out the conditioner. Do so by running cold water and rinsing the wig again thoroughly.

Pay attention to the wig cap when rinsing to avoid leftover conditioners that could make the caps slippery later.

STEP 4: Dry

The strands of the wigs become heavy with water, and they risk stretching.

Next, use a clean towel to pat the wig to manage the weight. You can also put the wig between a towel and squeeze it between your hands with care.

Then hang your wig on a wig stand for it to air dry. The wig should take a few hours before drying completely.

air dry synthetic hair

If you want to enhance the volume after drying, use basic rollers and let them sit overnight.

Note: Do not hang a dripping synthetic wig on wig stands to prevent hair fibers and the cap from stretching.

Dry synthetic wigs

FAQs about Washing Synthetic Wigs

How often should I wash the synthetic wig?

Washing your synthetic wig will depend on how frequently you use it. Usually, you need to wash your wig after 6-8 wears or every two to three weeks. However, ensure you do not overwash the wig to avoid reducing its durability. 

Can I Use the Washing Machine to Wash a Synthetic Wig?

Since your wig contains synthetic fibers, it does not mean you can wash it in a washing machine. As the washing machine moves rapidly with a fast spin cycle and can tangle or rip the wig strands.

Should I Wash a New Synthetic Wig Before I Wear It?

My suggestion is to wash any wig before wearing it. A new wig might have a residual smell or chemicals left on during manufacturing. Washing will remove such debris and prevent scalp irritation when you wear the wig.

Can You Wash Synthetic Wigs With Fabric Softener?

If you do not have a wig conditioner, you can use a fabric softener. But, you should know fabric softeners end up coating the strands, thus making the hair attract dirt and causing buildup. Fabric softeners will make your synthetic wig prone to damage if used for a long time. [1]

Can You Wash Synthetic Hair With Regular Shampoo?

A wig shampoo is a good option since it is uniquely blended for synthetic wigs. But, you can use a small amount of specific regular shampoos.

Do not use the kind of shampoos made for moisturizing natural hair. Instead, pick a shampoo with a neutral blend. This way, you will avoid making the synthetic hair frizzy and causing damage.

Author: Charity Nasike

AUTHOR

Charity Nasike is a passionate wig wearer and basically has diverse knowledge related to wigs' care and maintenance. When she's not writing, she's either in the kitchen trying out new recipes or on social media advising fellow ladies tricks to apply on their wigs.

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