Find out how to care for synthetic wigs.

Learning how to care for synthetic wigs will keep them looking new.

You may wear them on a regular basis but do you know how to care for synthetic wigs or hair extensions? There are a lot of varied opinions regarding what type of wig shampoo and conditioner to use. Often up for debate is whether it is okay to use the same products you use for your real hair.

The Answer Is No

Your real hair is made of protein, while synthetic hair comes from specially formulated plastic. Clearly, these are quite different. Conditioners made for human hair include ingredients to penetrate the cuticle, thus providing strength, moisture and lubrication. These conditioners are mainly water-based and also contain mild detergents, oils, humectants and proteins. Most of the ingredients in conditioners for human hair are absorbed by our hair and are rinsed out easily. Since synthetic hair cannot absorb anything, it doesn’t need anywhere near the number of ingredients to cleanse and style it.

Synthetic hair has a few basic needs. It should be kept clean since dust and environmental pollution can weigh down the fibers and make it look dull. Regular shampoos are often too harsh since synthetic hair does not need the strong detergents to keep it clean. Regular conditioners also include too many ingredients and will weigh synthetic hair down, which can result in a dull-looking wig.

Your Synthetic Hair Care Routine

It is important to develop a consistent routine to care for your synthetic wig or extensions. Take some time to gently but thoroughly brush your hair with a wig brush. Do not brush a curly wig; just use your fingers to remove the tangles. Purchase wig shampoo formulated for synthetic wigs. Turn the wig inside out and place it in your sink. Mix cold water with two caps of shampoo. Let the wig soak for five minutes. Rid the wig of shampoo by rinsing gently and then repeat the same steps with wig conditioner.

To dry, wrap your wig in a towel and pat the excess water out. Do not rub the wig against the towel. Do not comb or brush the wig while it is wet. Allow your wig to air dry on a wig stand. You should not use a curling iron, hair dryer or any other heated products. Doing so will damage the fibers. After the wig is dry, you can comb or brush it to style and add finishing spray for shine.

The upkeep for synthetic wigs and hair extensions requires only a small amount of time and effort. However, you should be careful not to use the same products for synthetic hair as you would your real hair. Using specially formulated wig shampoo and conditioner can keep your synthetic hair looking stylish and presentable.

If you need information on wig shampoo and conditioner for synthetic wigs or hair extensions, contact us. We have the products you need to help maintain your look.