How to Properly Shampoo a Wig

Mar 5

How to Properly Shampoo a Wig: Essential Tips for Long-Lasting Wear

Wigs are an investment, and proper care ensures they stay looking fresh, vibrant, and tangle-free. Shampooing your wig the right way can extend its lifespan and maintain its quality. Whether you have a synthetic or human hair wig, here are some essential tips for washing it correctly.

1. Use the Right Shampoo

Not all shampoos are suitable for wigs. Regular shampoos contain sulfates and harsh ingredients that can damage synthetic fibers or strip human hair wigs of their natural moisture.

For synthetic wigs: Use a specially formulated synthetic wig shampoo to maintain fiber integrity.
For human hair wigs: Use sulfate-free, hydrating shampoos to keep the hair soft and manageable.

2. Detangle Before Washing

Before shampooing, gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush to prevent excessive tangling during washing.

Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid breakage.
Be extra gentle with curly or wavy wigs to maintain their texture.

3. Wash with Lukewarm Water

Hot water can damage wig fibers and loosen knots in hand-tied wigs. Instead:

Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of wig-friendly shampoo.
Submerge the wig and gently swirl it in the water without rubbing or scrubbing.
Let it soak for a few minutes to break down product buildup and oils.

4. Rinse and Condition Properly

Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool to lukewarm water until the shampoo is completely removed.
For synthetic wigs: Use a leave-in wig conditioner or detangling spray—do not use regular conditioner, as it can weigh down the fibers.
For human hair wigs: Apply a lightweight, moisture-rich conditioner from mid-lengths to ends (avoiding the roots and cap to prevent loosening knots). Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

5. Air Dry for Best Results

Gently blot excess water with a microfiber towel—never wring or twist the wig.
Place the wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape while drying.
Avoid heat from blow dryers unless using a heat-friendly synthetic wig that allows styling.

Final Thoughts

Regularly shampooing your wig with proper techniques will keep it looking beautiful and fresh. Whether synthetic or human hair, using the right products and handling it with care will help maximize its longevity.

Ben Madle