Investing in a high-quality wig can be one of the best purchases you ever make (especially if you are uncomfortable with your hair or are experiencing hair loss for any reason), provided you take steps to care for it properly.
With proper care, your wig or topper, whether it is made from human or synthetic hair, will last a lot longer, helping to protect your valuable investment and keep you looking and feeling good every day.
To help you give your wig or topper the TLC it deserves, here are some maintenance recommendations:
Washing the wig cap liner
Wig cap liners are a personal choice, but they do help to make the wig-wearing experience more comfortable, especially for those with a sensitive scalp.
It is perfectly natural for bodily oils and other substances, like sweat, to accumulate in the base materials of a wig, making the need for proper cleansing essential. However, you must take the time to treat the wig or topper with great care.
Once you have thoroughly wet the piece, select a shampoo specifically designed for wigs and apply a small amount to your hands before gently massaging it in. Once you have done that, begin cleansing the inner cap or base materials with your fingers, using gentle, circular motions.
Wig manufacturers recommend that wearers use a shampoo designed specifically for wigs when cleaning them, as this will help ensure the longevity of your wig.
Freshening up the wig cap or topper base
It’s not uncommon for a wig cap or topper base to require freshening up in between washes, and fortunately, there are some excellent products available for neutralizing any odours. Simply search online or drop into your local wig store for more advice and guidance.
Cleansing your wig
If you follow the steps outlined below, your natural or synthetic hair wig will look fresh and healthy for longer:
Step No.1
Detangling
Before washing your wig, it is essential to thoroughly detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb. The best way to do this is by beginning at the ends of the hair and working towards the roots. Doing so will help to reduce any shedding.
Step No.2
Rinsing
Rinse the hair from the roots to the ends using lukewarm water. Try to avoid soaking or rubbing the wig as this may cause tangles to appear. For curly hair wigs, leaving the hairnet on can be helpful.
Step No.3
Shampooing
Apply a small amount of shampoo (one specifically designed for wigs is recommended) to your hands before working it gently through the strands of hair, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step No.4
Conditioning (for synthetic hair)
Always avoid the roots and/or knots when applying a leave-in conditioner to the hair; instead, spray it from midway down the shaft to the ends of the hair.
Conditioning (for human hair)
Never apply conditioner to the roots of your human hair wig as this could cause the knots in the cap to become undone and lead to fibre loss. Leave the conditioner on the hair for a few minutes before rinsing. If your human hair wig is a little dry or damaged from styling, for example, you can use a deep, more intense conditioner.
Step No.5
Rinsing
To avoid tangling your synthetic or human hair wig let the water (always lukewarm, never hot) flow in the direction of the hair. Once fully rinsed, squeeze and press the hair or blot gently with a towel to get rid of any excess water. Never wring the hair.
Step No.6
Drying (for synthetic hair)
It can be helpful to use a comb to part the hair on your synthetic wig before drying, but a hairdryer should never be used. Instead, allow your wig to dry naturally on a folding stand.
Drying (for human hair)
For wigs made from natural, human hair, a hairdryer can safely be used, but only until the hair is around 80% dry. Once you’ve reached this point, you can use a round brush to smooth the hair.
By following the guidance provided above, you can ensure proper care for your wig and achieve the head-turning effect we all desire!
