Real hair braided wigs offer the beauty and versatility of braided styles with the natural look and feel of human hair. Proper care is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. This guide will walk you through the steps of washing your real hair braided wig, explain whether you need to unbraid it, and provide tips on keeping the braids in shape.

Understanding Real Hair Braided Wigs

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the structure of real hair braided wigs. These wigs are made from human hair and come in various styles, such as box braids, cornrows, and micro braids. They are usually installed on a wig cap, which helps keep the braids intact and in place.

Washing Your Real Hair Braided Wig

Washing a braided wig requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the braids or the wig cap. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Wig

Before washing, gently shake the wig to remove any loose dirt or debris. Check for any tangles and carefully detangle using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

2. Rinse the Wig

• Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
• Submerge the wig and allow it to soak for a few minutes to loosen any dirt.

3. Shampooing

• Use a sulfate-free, mild shampoo designed for human hair.
• Apply the shampoo to your hands and lather it gently.
• Apply the lather to the wig, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Avoid scrubbing or rough handling to prevent frizz and damage.

4. Rinsing

• Rinse the wig thoroughly with lukewarm water until all shampoo is removed.
• Ensure that no residue is left as it can cause buildup and dullness.

5. Conditioning

• Apply a conditioner suitable for human hair.
• Focus on the ends of the braids to keep them moisturized.
• Avoid the roots and wig cap to prevent the wig from becoming too heavy.
• Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.

6. Drying

• Gently squeeze out excess water using a towel. Do not wring or twist the wig.
• Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, as they can damage the hair.

Should You Unbraid the Wig?

When to Unbraid

In most cases, you do not need to unbraid your wig to wash it. However, if the braids are extremely dirty, tangled, or if the wig hasn’t been washed for a long time, it might be beneficial to unbraid it for a thorough cleaning.

When Not to Unbraid

• If your braids are in good condition and only need a light wash, there’s no need to unbraid them.
• Unbraiding and re-braiding frequently can weaken the hair and cause breakage.

Maintaining the Shape of Braids

To keep your braids looking fresh and well-maintained, follow these tips:

1. Moisturize Regularly

• Use a light, leave-in conditioner or a braid spray to keep the hair moisturized.
• Focus on the ends and avoid the roots to prevent buildup on the wig cap.

2. Protect the Braids

• At night, wrap your wig in a silk or satin scarf to prevent frizz and tangling.
• Use a silk or satin pillowcase for added protection.

3. Avoid Heat Styling

• Heat can damage the hair and alter the shape of the braids. Avoid using blow dryers, flat irons, or curling irons on your braided wig.

4. Re-Braiding

• If the braids start to look frizzy or loose, consider re-braiding small sections to maintain the overall look.
• Be gentle and avoid pulling too tightly to prevent hair loss and damage.

Proper care and maintenance of your real hair braided wig will ensure it stays beautiful and lasts longer. Follow these guidelines to keep your braids looking fresh and well-maintained, and enjoy the versatility and style that braided wigs offer.

Common FAQs About Real Hair Braided Wigs

1. How often should I wash my braided wig?

Washing frequency depends on how often you wear the wig and your lifestyle. Generally, washing every 2-4 weeks is sufficient.

2. Can I swim with my braided wig?

Yes, but it’s essential to rinse and wash the wig thoroughly after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater, which can damage the hair.

3. How can I prevent my wig from becoming frizzy?

Regular moisturizing, gentle handling, and protective measures like using a silk scarf or pillowcase can help prevent frizz.

4. Can I dye my real hair braided wig?

Yes, since it’s made from human hair, you can dye it. However, it’s recommended to have it done by a professional to avoid damage.

5. What products should I avoid using on my braided wig?

Avoid products with alcohol, sulfates, and heavy oils, as they can dry out the hair and cause buildup.