In recent years, many have become braver about wearing longer wigs. For a long time, short crops were the go-to choice, as some felt that longer wigs would be difficult to manage. While short wigs come with their own set of challenges – such as frizzing at the nape – they are generally easier to care for. Longer wigs, however, can quickly become tangled, leading to early frizzing if not maintained properly.
Here are five key steps to help ensure that wigs – whether synthetic or human hair – stay tangle-free and in good condition:
Best Ways to Untangle Synthetic Wigs:
Untangle using the right brush or comb
Not all brushes and combs suitable for natural hair will work well on wigs. Different wig manufacturers recommend specific tools depending on the type of fibre used in their wigs. For example, Jon Renau recommends using a wide-toothed plastic comb, while other brands may suggest rubber-tipped metal prongs. Using the recommended comb is key to ensuring the wig isn’t damaged during detangling.
It’s been noted that the Jon Renau comb, while gentle on the fibres, may not always be effective for detangling finer knots that can form after wearing a long wig for a day. In these cases, a wooden wig brush may be useful for gently dealing with the more stubborn tangles.
Use the correct wig care products
Using regular shampoo and conditioner on synthetic wigs can do more harm than good. It’s important to avoid household products such as washing-up liquid or fabric conditioner, as these can severely damage the wig fibres. Instead, it’s best to use products that are specifically designed for synthetic wigs. These products help preserve the wig’s integrity since synthetic fibres behave differently from natural hair. Many recommend Gisela Mayer’s wig shampoo and balsam, though other options like Dimples products have also been found effective.
It’s equally important to use wig-safe styling products, such as gel and hairspray, instead of regular products. There are many options on the market that are designed for synthetic wigs and help to prevent damage. Ellen Wille Hair Tip Liquid, Jon Renau’s Wig Lustre, and Dimples Wig Gel Spray are all favourites for keeping wigs looking smooth and protected.
Additionally, it’s essential to avoid brushing a wig while it’s still wet, as this can stretch the fibres and cause shedding. It’s always best to wait until the wig is completely dry before brushing or combing.
Steaming, a gentle solution
Over time, even the most well-maintained wigs can start to show signs of frizz. Instead of resorting to straighteners, steaming is a much gentler option. Steaming helps to smooth out kinks and frizz, and when done properly, it can rejuvenate the fibres without causing long-term damage.
While steaming wigs may seem intimidating at first, it’s a relatively easy process, and many have found it to be an effective way to restore their wig’s condition. If the goal is to avoid making the wig too straight, there are methods that can maintain a wave-like texture during the steaming process. A demonstration video could help clarify these techniques for those interested in learning more.
Wash the wig properly
Washing the wig properly can sometimes be all it takes to keep it tangle-free. For the best results, wigs should be washed once a week using cool water and wig-specific shampoo. It’s crucial to handle the wig gently during the washing process, avoiding any wringing or excessive manipulation that could damage the fibres.
Trim the ends as a last resort
While the idea of trimming a wig may seem daunting, it’s a technique that can extend the life of the wig, especially if it’s starting to show signs of frizz. Trimming the ends of long wigs every month or so can keep them fresh and tangle-free. By removing frizz at the tips, it’s possible to prolong the wig’s wearability and maintain a polished look.
Frizzing Explained – Frizz occurs when the ends of the fibres become damaged, causing them to bend and grab onto each other, much like Velcro. This leads to clumping, making the wig look worn out. While all wigs will eventually frizz, with the right care, it is possible to delay this process for an extended period.
What Do Others Do to Keep Their Wigs Tangle-Free?
Maintaining a wig’s tangle-free appearance requires the right care. From using the correct tools and products to employing techniques like steaming, the key to keeping wigs looking fresh is regular attention. What are the favourite tips and tricks of others for maintaining their wigs? Sharing knowledge and learning from others’ experiences can be helpful in keeping wigs in great shape for as long as possible.
What do you do to keep your wigs tangle and frizz-free for as long as possible? Let me know about your favourite tips and tricks in the comments!
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I use synthetic short wigs and I have no problem with frizz on the nape, mine is always on the front, the bangs and part start to get gummed up and frizzy. I have gone through so many wigs, they usually only last maybe 2months. I have been buying Raquel Welch wigs, maybe I should buy something else but I just don’t know what-thanks-mindy
Anne / Jayne are you aware your gp can refer you to detmrmatology who can give you a prescription for up to 2 wigs every other year … value of prescription will depend on your type of alopecia. Not a total solution but may help.
I’m totally with you Anne on all points. Don’t know where to start. What minefield. Been looking at buying a wig for 2 plus years as my hair is thinning by the day but can’t believe that people pay many hundreds of pounds for their wigs in some cases if they only last for a few months!
I think I am frightened off from having either type of wig. I can’t afford to get it wrong when I am forced to having one. I am still not sure which way to go. Synthetic versus Real! I am in total conflict. I certainly cannot afford to be replacing every six months. I am going to have to hold off for a while yet. I was thinking once I got one that would be it for a while. Scared rigid would describe it best.
Hi, so I know this is an older post but I’m sure people are still needing advice for their wigs and what I’ve found to work, even though you advised against natural hair products for synthetics, is ‘big sexy hair’ blow-dry volumizing gel. It comes in a translucent red bottle with a pump. I use it on my [dry] wig and finger it through the whole entire wig and it works wonders for detangling AND frizzing it’s like a miracle gel! Please ladies put the scissors and steamers down and try this first no dispespect to you OP your tips are great and I thank you for sharing and now you can add another tip to your post ?.
So , and how much, an where are these products available?
Most synthetic wigs these days are heat resistant and can be ironed or curled with your heated tool under 200 degrees.
I straighten my wig every night after everyday wear with a clothes steamer
Even when I’ve purchased a wig and didn’t find it smooth enough all I use is a clothes steamer which makes it super smooth.Hair iron or hair steam iron doesn’t do a good job.Its useless.
Lately I’ve discovered also after styling your wig smooth it with hair serum or smooth spray which will leave your wig even more super soft and will stop it from detagling less.
Also if You don’t like your curly synthetic wig,and want it straight ,pour boiling water on it and that will turn your wig straight permanently followed by the above instructions for smoothing.
Synthetic wigs can last longer than 6 months depending on density or how much they shed.Also spray your wig inside out with hair spray to stop shedding.
I’ve had to purchase several wigs to find one that I’m happy with for style & quality
I had very tangled ends on my wig, It felt and looked awful. Tried everything and eventually use the steam from a kettle and voila. All smooth again. Steam iron didn’t work for me.
Hi Dee Dee
It’s a pleasure. Hope you find a something that suits you.
Susiex
Hello Susie,
Many thanks for your recent post re perfumed shampoo etc. I will definitely give your suggestions a try.
Dee Dee
Steaming is a great option to use on straight wigs or the nape of any length wig to soften the frizz effect.
Great info from everyone and yes Lizzie I’d be very interested in any tips on how to get some wave/curl back into a more tousled wig.
Denise x
Great article that allows us to learn to keep and use our wigs in better condition for longer.
I usually use wigs with ripples or curls and I would like to know how you can improve on the subject of frizze. Can steam be used with them and achieve an improved appearance?
Thank you very much and congratulations for your articles
Hi Diane,
I haven’t experienced this yet as I’m indoors mainly with my health problems. I’m aware that heat sources are not good for the synthetic hair though so it follows through that the sun will damage it too I guess (remembering all the bleached curtains from the sun).
I think that’s a fantastic idea that I’m going to try when my oldest Amore Stevie looks tired.
Many thanks.
Hi Dee Dee,
II feel the same as you & don’t like some of those perfumes too. I generally use a very good quality shampoo & conditioner on my long wigs. Mine are by Phillip Kingsley & are gentle & don’t have the strong scent. Some of the range are really gentle as they are for problem real hair but I’ve always found my synthetic wigs feel good after use. I know they’re expensive but they last & last & you only need a tiny amount each wash.
Thanks for your article with all the useful tips. I have worn long wigs since January after my real hair replacement system caused me to have scalp problems. I tend to wear Amore wigs as I find them very natural to look at & the fibre is excellent quality.
I’ve found that washing my wigs after 2 weeks wear is the best thing to keep them good. I use a very good quality shampoo & conditioner. I rinse after washing & then soak in a bowl of tepid water for 5 mins with the conditioner swooshed through it. I don’t rinse again. I then let the wig drip dry before brushing it through.
I use a really good human hair brush which has tipped metal bristles & is absolutely fantastic for removing knots with ease. Again I think the brush needs to be top quality so it also removes the fluff that seems to build up in a synthetic wig from static. Each night I religiously brush through the wig I’ve been wearing to remove all knots but I do this after spraying first with a wig conditioner or more often a fibre oil spray. Then I place the wig on a wig stand to dry overnight & in the morning it looks & feels really lovely.
So far my original 2 wigs (Amore Madelyn & Amore Stevie) have lasted me right from the beginning of January & are worn every day. They still look brilliant & I too will steam them through once they become really tired looking as I think it’s worth a try. Trimming the end if they split too is a really good idea too.
I would love to know if anyone can recommend products for wigs that are perfume free.
I find the smells of the shampoos etc offensive and are counterproductive to any perfumes I may use.
Dee dee
I would love to hear your views and other wig wearers views on how the sun can bleach out the colour on areas of a synthetic wig. During the very hot and intensely sunny weather here in London for several months I think that is what has happened to the top area of my wonderful Cool Look wig by Annica Hansen in Tobacco Rooted. I use a sun umbrella when possible. But the wig’s colour definitely appears to have suffered sun damage. Is there a spray or conditioner that can prevent colour damage by the sun – and other types of sun damage?
Instead of steaming with a garment steamer, I found it easier to use a hot air styling brush after spraying the wig with water and combing through to make sure it’s evenly dampened. I use my hand to judge the heat, and can also do a bit of shaping at the same time.
I would love an article on how to use wig tape on a synthetic wig, best type etc and how / what to use to remove the tape from the lace front?.? I used to use alcohol to remove wig tape from my human hair wigs but worried this would damage synthetic / lace front ones?
I do wish I could master steaming, it always just seems to wet it and do nothing more! Great tips though, thankyou!
I would be very interested in a video on how to go about trimming neckline hair that has frizzed on short hair wigs. I find Lizzie’s advice very helpful. It’s the scissor technique that I would love to see.
Thanks so much Lizzie for all the helpful advice! I too have always stuck to cropped wigs, being older they suit me better. I also prefer a wavy, messy look.
I have a couple of old wigs but wonder whether the steaming method would be suitable for them as I don’t want to straighten them.
Like you, I do trim my wigs from time to time and it really ‘wakes them up!’ Thank you so much for all the useful tips.
Andria
Thank you for your article. Although I already use a lot of your ideas it was good to hear I’m doing the right things.
In your next article could you please advise what to do with an old wig which is now a bit shapeless, has the frizz and dull lustre and is really past it’s sell by date. Do I bin it?
I found a little fabric conditioner great for synthetic wig if you’ve run out of your usual wig conditioner! It’s also great for dulling shiny synthetic wigs !