Wigs made of human hair are a significant investment, offering a natural appearance and versatility that synthetic wigs can’t match. Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep them looking their best. In this guide, we will detail the steps involved in cleaning a human hair wig, ensuring it stays beautiful and lasts longer.

Understanding Your Wig

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to understand the type of wig you have. Human hair wigs come in various styles and constructions, each requiring slightly different care methods.

Types of Human Hair Wigs

1. Full Lace Wigs: These wigs have a lace cap that covers the entire head, allowing for natural-looking parting.
2. Lace Front Wigs: Only the front portion of these wigs is lace, providing a natural hairline.
3. Monofilament Wigs: These have a mesh-like material at the crown, giving the appearance of natural hair growth.

Tools and Products You’ll Need

To clean your human hair wig, gather the following tools and products:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Wig stand or mannequin head
• Gentle shampoo (sulfate-free)
• Conditioner (moisturizing, sulfate-free)
• Towel
• Spray bottle with water
• Leave-in conditioner or wig-specific detangler

 

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Step 1: Detangle the Wig

Before washing, carefully detangle the wig to prevent hair breakage.

1. Place the wig on a stand or mannequin head.
2. Use a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.
3. Be gentle to avoid pulling out any hair strands.

Step 2: Prepare the Washing Solution

1. Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water.
2. Add a small amount of gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to the water and mix until sudsy.

Step 3: Wash the Wig

1. Submerge the wig in the water, allowing it to soak for a few minutes.
2. Gently swirl the wig in the water without rubbing or scrubbing.
3. Use your fingers to distribute the shampoo through the strands lightly.
4. Rinse the wig thoroughly under lukewarm running water until all shampoo is removed.

Step 4: Condition the Wig

1. Apply a generous amount of moisturizing conditioner to the wig.
2. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes to hydrate the hair strands.
3. Rinse the wig thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove all the conditioner.

Step 5: Dry the Wig

1. Gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water.
2. Place the wig on a stand or mannequin head to air dry.
3. Avoid using a hairdryer, as excessive heat can damage the hair.

Step 6: Style the Wig

1. Once the wig is completely dry, use a wide-tooth comb to style it as desired.
2. Apply a leave-in conditioner or wig-specific detangler to maintain softness and manageability.

Tips for Maintaining Your Human Hair Wig

• Regular Cleaning: Wash your wig every 7-10 wears to keep it fresh and clean.
• Proper Storage: Store your wig on a stand to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
• Heat Protection: Use heat styling tools sparingly and always apply a heat protectant spray.
• Night Care: If you wear your wig daily, consider wrapping it in a silk scarf at night to reduce friction and prevent tangling.

Common FAQs About Human Hair Wig Care

Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on my human hair wig?

• It’s best to use sulfate-free, gentle products specifically formulated for wigs to avoid damaging the hair and cap.

How often should I wash my human hair wig?

• Typically, you should wash your wig every 7-10 wears, but this can vary based on how frequently you wear it and your activity level.

Can I use heat styling tools on my wig?

• Yes, you can use heat styling tools on human hair wigs, but always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.

How do I prevent my wig from tangling?

• Regularly detangle your wig with a wide-tooth comb, and consider wrapping it in a silk scarf at night to reduce friction.

What should I do if my wig becomes frizzy?

• Apply a leave-in conditioner or wig-specific detangler and gently comb through the hair to restore smoothness.