Maintaining the quality and longevity of wigs involves routine care and proper cleaning techniques. The methods of cleaning vary significantly between synthetic and human hair wigs due to their different materials and construction. This comprehensive guide will explore the appropriate cleaning procedures for both types of wigs, helping you to ensure they remain in pristine condition.

Cleaning Synthetic Wigs

Overview of Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are crafted from man-made fibers that are designed to mimic the appearance of real hair. While they are more durable in some aspects, they require specific care to maintain their style and texture.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

• Detangling: Before washing, gently brush the wig starting from the tips and moving upward to remove any tangles. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush specially designed for synthetic wigs.

Washing Procedure

1. Washing Solution: Fill a basin with cool water and add a capful of wig shampoo specially formulated for synthetic fibers. Hot water can damage the fibers, so it’s important to use cold water.
2. Soaking: Submerge the wig in the water and let it soak for about 5 minutes. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wig, as this can cause the fibers to break.
3. Rinsing: Rinse the wig under cool running water until all shampoo is removed. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent any buildup of cleaning products.
4. Conditioning: Apply a synthetic wig conditioner to the damp fibers, avoiding the wig cap. This will help to detangle the fibers and rejuvenate the wig’s texture. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Drying Techniques

• Blotting: Gently blot excess water with a towel. Avoid wringing or twisting.
• Air Drying: Place the wig on a wig stand and allow it to air dry naturally. Do not use a hair dryer, as the heat can damage synthetic fibers.

Post-Cleaning Care

• Restyling: Once dry, you can lightly brush the wig and restore its style. Synthetic wigs often return to their original styling after being washed due to their “memory” fibers.

Cleaning Human Hair Wigs

Overview of Human Hair Wigs

Human hair wigs offer a natural look and versatility in styling but require more careful maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

• Detangling: Like synthetic wigs, start by gently detangling the wig using a wide-tooth comb or a brush made for human hair wigs.

Washing Procedure

1. Washing Solution: Use lukewarm water and a sulfate-free shampoo designed for treated hair. Fill a basin and gently swirl the wig to distribute the shampoo evenly.
2. Soaking: Allow the wig to soak for a few minutes but do not leave it in the water too long as this can lead to hair becoming overly soft and prone to damage.
3. Rinsing: Rinse the wig under lukewarm running water until all the shampoo is removed. Be sure to rinse from the cap to the tips to avoid tangling.
4. Conditioning: Apply a quality conditioner designed for treated hair. Leave it in for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to ensure no residue remains.

Drying Techniques

• Blotting: Carefully blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water.
• Air Drying: Place the wig on a stand to air dry. Human hair wigs should not be dried with high heat as it can damage the hair.

Post-Cleaning Care

• Restyling: Human hair wigs can be styled as desired once dry. You can use heated tools at a low setting to curl or straighten the hair, just like you would with natural hair.

Whether you own a synthetic or human hair wig, understanding and following the correct cleaning and maintenance procedures is crucial for preserving the life and look of your wig. Regular cleaning not only keeps the wig looking fresh but also ensures that it remains hygienic and in good condition. By adhering to these tailored cleaning guidelines, both synthetic and human hair wig wearers can enjoy their investment for years to come.