6 Effective Ideas for Keeping Your Wig in Pristine Condition

There’s more than one reason to love wearing wigs. Some people love being able to switch up their look without committing to one hairstyle. Others love feeling confident after experiencing hair loss or volume loss. No matter the reason you choose to wear one, proper care is essential to keeping your wig looking fabulous. If you’re new to caring for wigs, here are six ideas for maintaining them, allowing you to look your best and maximize your wig’s usage for years to come.

1. Understand the Difference Between Human and Synthetic Hair

In general, human hair wigs can be washed and conditioned like regular hair, but they would probably be damaged if they were treated like synthetic wigs. Similarly, styling methods deemed safe for human hair wigs would likely tangle or even melt synthetic wig fibers. Before purchasing your first wig, make sure you understand these differences to avoid unintentionally damaging your wigs.

2. Brush or Comb From Tip to Root

You should comb your wig gently after each use to keep it looking groomed, starting at the ends and moving upward toward the root. This upward movement will smooth out tangles without unrooting any hair from the cap. For synthetic wigs, use a wide-toothed comb.

3. Apply Freshening Spray Once a Week

After multiple wears, wigs will start to lose their shape and begin absorbing odors from the environment. A specialized freshening spray can combat this by neutralizing any lingering odors and rejuvenating the fibers with additional moisture. Apply the freshening spray every few wears or once a week if you’re a daily wearer. Make sure you are using a spray that is specifically formulated for wigs, which you can find in specialty wig shops.

4. Invest in a Wig Stand

Wigs are meant to look like the hair on your head, so it makes sense to store them on stands rather than flat in a box or drawer. Wig stands are also ideal for drying your wigs after washing. Not only do they allow air to circulate around each strand of hair, they help the wig dry into its intended shape.

5. Wash Once a Month

Just like naturally growing hair, human hair wigs need regular shampooing and conditioning to stay soft and bouncy. On the other hand, synthetic hair can’t absorb oils and emollients like human hair, so the strands are prone to building up residue. Either biweekly or once a month, gently cleanse your wig with cool water, blot dry, and place on a wig stand to air dry. Human hair can be washed and conditioned with regular, sulfate-free hair products. For synthetic wigs, a mild dish soap solution will scrape away buildup without adding more residue.

6. Rotate Wigs

If you wear a wig every day, consider maintaining a collection rather than relying on one wig alone. Doing this will reduce wear and tear on each individual wig, allowing you to enjoy them for longer. Extra wigs also reduce the frequency of having to wash and dry your wigs.