How To Wash Synthetic Hair

Just like our own hair, hair extensions, wigs and hair pieces will need to be washed to keep them in good condition. Even synthetic hair extensions will also need refreshed but there are many things to keep in mind when doing so.

Washing your synthetic hair will not only refresh it, but it will also help to detangle, soften and smooth the hair piece, keeping it in top conditioner for longer. Follow these simple steps when washing your synthetic hair, whether it is clip in hair extensions, wigs, hairpieces or ponytails:

Step 1:

Gently brush the extensions or wig using a hair extension brush or a Tangle Teezer. You must make sure that any tangles are removed prior to washing otherwise matting can occur.

Step 2:

Fill your sink with cold water. It is important to remember to only use cold water with synthetic hair extensions as hot water can soften the synthetic fibres and for those who have wavy extensions or wigs, hot water can actually straighten the fibres too!

Step 3:

Place the extensions or wig into the water to rinse, and apply a specialist hair extension shampoo. Remember to smooth the shampoo down the extensions or wig instead of rubbing as you do not want to create any tangles. Alternatively, place a cap full of the shampoo into the water and mix it up then place the wig into the water and leave it to soak for 5 minutes.

Step 4:

Rinse out the shampoo with clean, cold water and apply a specialist hair extension conditioner. Again smooth the conditioner down the hair, never rubbing. Alternatively, place a cap full of conditioner into the water, mix it up and place the hair into the sink and leave to soak for 5 minutes. Rinse with clean, cold water.

Step 5:

Once you have washed the hair, gently remove the excess water by patting with a towel. Synthetic hair must not be dried with heat so leave it to dry naturally. With your wig, use a plastic wig stand to keep the wigs shape while drying. A plastic stand like this will stop the wig from stretching like it can on traditional wig heads.

Step 6:

You must remember NEVER to brush the synthetic hair when wet as this can damage the fibres. Wait until it is completely dry and gently comb through starting at the tips of the hair up to the roots, so that you do not cause more tangles.

If the hair is a little tangled, use a detangle spray designed for synthetic hair. This can be used after you have washed and dried the hair, as well as in between washes to detangle any sections.

Lastly, how often should you wash synthetic hair extensions?

This all depends on how often you wear them. If you wear a wig every day, you may want to wash them every week to keep them refreshed. Or if you go longer, just use a light detangling spray to stop them becoming messy and keeping them smelling fresh. If you wear your wig or extensions just for occasions or once per week then you may get away with only washing it once a month. However this all depends on what products you use – if you use synthetic safe hairspray you will want to wash them a little more often to remove the product build up.

Laura is a hair and beauty writer with extensive knowledge in beauty, makeup and hair care.