Wigs are a great way to change up your look without damaging your hair. However, just like natural hair, wigs need to be washed regularly to maintain their shine and bounce. If you’re new to wearing wigs, you might be wondering how to wash a wig without ruining it. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of washing your wig to keep it looking new for longer.
Before You Start
Before you start washing your wig, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
1. Check the care instructions: Different wigs require different care, so make sure you read the care instructions that came with your wig before you start washing it.
2. Detangle your wig: Use a wig brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your wig before you wash it. This will prevent any knots or tangles from getting worse during the washing process.
3. Prepare your workspace: Find a clean, flat surface to wash your wig on. Make sure you have all the supplies you need within reach, including a wig shampoo, a wig conditioner, a wig brush or comb, a towel, and a wig stand or mannequin head.
Step 1: Fill a Sink with Cool Water
The first step in washing your wig is to fill a sink with cool water. Make sure the water is not too hot, as hot water can damage synthetic wigs. If you’re washing a human hair wig, you can use lukewarm water instead.
Step 2: Add Wig Shampoo
Once the sink is filled with water, add a small amount of wig shampoo. Use your hands to gently mix the shampoo into the water until it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Soak Your Wig
Place your wig in the sink and gently swish it around in the water. Make sure the wig is completely submerged in the water. You can leave the wig to soak for 5-10 minutes to allow the shampoo to penetrate the fibers.
Step 4: Rinse Your Wig
After the wig has soaked, drain the sink and rinse the wig under cool running water. Make sure to rinse all the shampoo out of the wig until the water runs clear.
Step 5: Apply Wig Conditioner
Once your wig is rinsed, it’s time to apply conditioner. Apply a small amount of wig conditioner to your hands and work it through the wig, from the roots to the tips. Make sure to focus on the ends of the wig, as these tend to be the most damaged.
Step 6: Rinse Your Wig Again
After you’ve applied conditioner, rinse your wig again under cool running water. Make sure to rinse out all the conditioner until the water runs clear.
Step 7: Gently Pat Your Wig Dry
After you’ve rinsed your wig, gently pat it dry with a towel. Do not rub the wig, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water with a towel.
Step 8: Place Your Wig on a Wig Stand or Mannequin Head
Once your wig is mostly dry, place it on a wig stand or mannequin head. This will help the wig keep its shape as it dries.
Step 9: Let Your Wig Air Dry
Allow your wig to air dry completely before you style it or wear it. Do not use a hair dryer or other heat source to dry your wig, as this can damage the fibers.
Related Questions:
1. How often should you wash your wig?
You should wash your wig every 6-8 wears, or more often if you use a lot of styling products on it.
2. Can you use regular shampoo and conditioner on a wig?
No, you should use a wig shampoo and conditioner that’s specifically designed for wigs. Regular shampoo and conditioner can damage the fibers of your wig.
3. Can you wash a wig in the washing machine?
No, you should never wash a wig in the washing machine. The agitation can damage the fibers and ruin the shape of the wig.