Washing Human Hair Wigs For Women: FAQs Answered

To say that Superhairpieces human hair wigs are beautiful and completely natural-looking would be an understatement!

Sure, these women’s wigs are a show of vanity, but besides being a stunning hair accessory, they hold a deeper purpose, acting as an emotional support and enhancing sense of identity for some women going through trying medical conditions like alopecia or cancer and chemotherapy.

There is then no doubt why human hair wigs have become a significant investment in the last few years, with renowned celebrities and acclaimed personalities worldwide resorting to their use.

If you are a wig user, you would agree with the transformation a high-quality wig can bring to your appearance and confidence. The morale boost is unmatchable!

However, no matter how great the wig is, without proper care and maintenance, the wig will quickly lose its natural, healthy look and deteriorate, significantly reducing its lifespan.

This brings us to one of the most common concerns among wig wearers - how to wash and maintain human hair pieces properly.

Whether you're new to wearing wigs or looking to improve your current care routine, understanding the fundamentals of wig washing will help you preserve the quality, texture, and longevity of your investment.

Let's address the most frequently asked questions about washing human hair wigs.

1. How often should you wash a human hair wig?

This is easily the number one question wig wearers ask. The general rule of thumb is to wash your human hair wig every 7-10 wears, but several factors affect this timeline.

• Daily wearers: If you wear your wig every day, wash it every 2 weeks at a minimum
• Occasional wearers: Human hair wigs can be washed after approximately 7-10 wears
• Climate considerations: If you live in a humid climate or use styling products daily, you may need to wash your wig more often. Once in 7-10 days.

2. How do you know when your wig needs washing?

Pay attention to your wig's behavior – if it looks dull, has more tangles than usual, feels heavy and sticky, or smells less than fresh, it's time for a wash.

3. Can you wash a wig every day?

No! Unlike your natural hair, which you may wash daily, human hair wigs should not be washed daily, as this can lead to product build-up and hair stress, which will lead to hair shedding and damage.

4. How to wash a wig?

Washing a human hair wig requires a gentle approach that differs from washing your natural hair. Read this blog for more details.

5. What product do we need to wash a wig?

Before you start, you will need these wig washing essentials:

• Sulfate-free wig-friendly shampoo
• Wig-friendly conditioner for human hair wigs
• Wide-tooth comb or wig brush
• Wig stand or mannequin head
• Clean towel
• Cool water (hot water damages wig fibers)
• Leave-in conditioner (optional but recommended)

Application Tips:

• Use products sparingly – a little goes a long way
• Focus conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends
• Avoid getting products on the wig cap or base

6. Is it okay to wash a brand-new wig before wearing it?

Yes, you can wash your brand-new wig; it removes loose hair and other manufacturing residue.

7. Can I sleep with my human hair wig on?

It is highly recommended not to sleep with your wig on. Friction caused during sleeping can cause human hair wigs to tangle and shed easily, and decrease their lifespan.

Many of Superhairpieces’ women’s human hair wigs come with silicone tabs and easy adjustment options to cling to your scalp without the use of adhesives for a secure and comfortable wear. So, attaching and removing a hairpiece daily is a cakewalk!

8. Can you brush a wet wig?

Never! Always detangle your wig when dry to prevent breakage. Start by gently working through any knots with a wide-tooth comb, beginning at the ends and working your way up to the roots. This prevents unnecessary stress on the hair knotted at the base.

9. Can you blow-dry a human hair wig?

Yes, you can blow-dry a human hair wig as it is heat resistant. However, it is best to air dry your wig or use the coolest setting on the blow dryer and always apply heat protectant spray first.

10. Can you use regular shampoo on a human hair wig?

Regular hair care products, including shampoo, are not recommended for use on wigs as they have been processed and lack natural oil production from the scalp.

Always use wig-friendly, sulfate-free, gentle formulas designed for hairpieces or chemically treated hair.

Shampoo suggestions:

• PROGEN Nutrifuse Women's Nourishing Shampoo

• Back2Natural HydroBalance Shampoo

• BeautiMark Pure Care Hydrating Shampoo

11. Can I use the same shampoo on my natural hair and wig?

While some gentle, sulfate-free shampoos might work for both, it's generally better to use separate products designed for each.

For your natural hair:

• Use products that address your specific scalp and hair needs
• Regular shampoos are formulated to cleanse the scalp and remove natural oils
• You can use a wider range of styling products and treatments

12. Why wash a wig with cold water?

Cool to lukewarm water is preferred for human hair wig care as it helps seal the hair cuticles and maintain moisture. While hot hair can damage the hair fiber, like it would your natural hair.

13. How can I prevent tangling when washing?

Gently squeeze your wig. Don't rub, wring, or twist your it.

14. Will washing make my wig shed more?

Washing at regular intervals, as mentioned earlier, is needed. However, some shedding is normal and to be expected. Watch for excessive shedding; it could mean there is a problem with your wig, and may be signs that it is possibly damaged.

15. What are the common wig-washing mistakes to avoid?

• Using hot water (damages hair cuticles)
• Rubbing or scrubbing during washing (causes tangling)
• Applying conditioner to the cap loosens hair attachments.
• Washing too frequently (strips natural oils)
• Skipping the wide-tooth comb (leads to preventable tangles)
• Using regular drugstore shampoo (too harsh for processed hair)

16. How do I clean the cap/base of my wig?

Use a soft-bristled brush with diluted shampoo for washing the base of your wig. Our wigs are hand-tied for a natural look, so you need to be extra gentle with them.

In case you are using an adhesive, use an adhesive remover solvent to remove the wig glue or tape before washing the base.

17. Can I shower wearing a woman’s wig?

Unlike men’s toupees, it is recommended to remove your wig before showering and wash it separately.

18. Can I sleep in a damp wig?

No, it can tangle, causing extreme damage. It could also get mold on it, causing skin concerns.

19. How should I dry my wig after washing?

Preferably, air dry your human hair wig on a wig stand away from heat.

Taking proper care of your human hair wig doesn't have to be complicated, but it does require the right approach and products. By following the correct procedure and using recommended products, you can keep your wig looking beautiful and natural for months or even years.