Should You Wash A New Wig Before Wearing It?

May 04, 2024

Receiving a new wig is like getting a key to a fresh look and a boost of confidence. It's tempting to wear it straight out of the box, but there's an important step you might be overlooking: should you wash your wig first? This isn't just about keeping things clean; it's also about making sure your wig looks its best and feels comfortable from day one. Let's dive into the essentials of pre-wearing wig care, and pave the way for you to feel fabulous and worry-free in your brand-new hairpiece.

Why Do You Need To Wash A New Wig Before You Wear It?

When you hold your brand-new wig, it's not just a product; it's a craftwork of style and personality waiting to merge with yours. However, before you let this new extension of yourself blend into your daily life, there's a significant step you shouldn't skip-washing it. Here's why:

Chemical Residues: Your wig has likely been treated with substances during its creation to preserve its quality and appearance until it reaches you. These chemicals can sometimes linger on the wig fibers and potentially cause irritation or discomfort to your scalp.
Hygiene Factors: Like any item shipped from afar, your wig could gather dust, bacteria, or other airborne particles on its journey to you. A good wash ensures that you're not only styling your hair but also prioritizing your health.
Initial Appearance: Straight out of the packaging, some wigs can carry an unnatural shine or stiffness that screams 'brand new'. Washing helps soften the fibers and dissipate the gloss, giving it a more natural look that blends seamlessly with your own hair.
Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, washing your wig before wearing it is even more crucial. It minimizes the risk of an allergic reaction and ensures that your new style doesn't come with itching or redness.

It's necessary to wash your wig before wearing it for the first time. By taking the time to cleanse your wig before it graces your head, you're setting the stage for a comfortable, confident, and authentic display of your chosen style.

Reasons Some May Choose Not To Wash a New Wig First

While there are clear benefits to washing your new wig, it's not always the immediate choice for everyone. Let's look at why some might postpone the first wash or skip it altogether before the initial wear:

Preserved Styling: High-quality wigs often come pre-styled, with curls, waves, and even color treatments set to perfection. Owners of these wigs may fear that washing could alter their carefully crafted look, especially if they're not confident in restyling it themselves.
Manufacturer Pre-Washing: Certain premium wig brands take the extra step to pre-wash their products. Thus, customers who trust the thoroughness of the company's process might feel comfortable wearing the wig right away without additional washing.
Immediate Use Scenario: Sometimes, the need to wear the wig is urgent-perhaps for an event or unexpected occasion. In such cases, time constraints make washing and properly drying the wig impractical, leading wearers to use the wig as is for convenience.

It's essential to weigh these considerations based on your specific situation. Whether you decide to wash your new wig now or later, understanding how it affects the wig can help you make an informed decision that suits your needs and ensures your wig stays looking fabulous.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Your New Wig

Whether you've decided to refresh your wig before its first outing or after a few uses, knowing the proper way to wash it can make all the difference in maintaining its quality. Here's a step-by-step guide tailored for both synthetic and human hair wigs:

Materials Needed:

A wig stand or a sturdy object to hang the wig on
A basin or sink
Cool to lukewarm water
Wig shampoo and conditioner formulated for wig fibers
A soft towel
A wide-tooth comb (for synthetic wigs) or a wig brush (for human hair wigs)

Washing Synthetic Wigs:

Gently remove any tangles using a wide-tooth comb. Start at the ends and work upwards to avoid damaging the fibers.
Fill your basin with cool water and mix in a capful of wig shampoo.
Submerge the wig in the solution and let it soak for around 5 minutes. Avoid rubbing the fibers to prevent tangling.
Rinse the wig gently in fresh cool water until all shampoo is removed.
Apply wig conditioner, avoiding the root area to prevent loosening the knots on the cap.
Rinse once more in cool water.
Pat the wig gently with a towel to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist.
Place the wig on a wig stand and let it air dry completely before styling.

Washing Human Hair Wigs:

Start by brushing out any tangles carefully from the tips to the roots.
Run lukewarm water gently through the hair from the base to the tips.
Apply a small amount of wig shampoo and distribute it evenly throughout the hair. Use vertical strokes rather than circular motions to avoid tangling.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water from the base down.
Apply a high-quality wig conditioner, avoiding the base of the cap.
Leave the conditioner in for a couple of minutes before rinsing in lukewarm water.
Carefully blot the hair with a towel-again, no twisting or wringing.
Let the wig air dry on a wig stand. If you must use a blow dryer, set it on low heat and keep it at least 12 inches away from the wig.

What Should You Do First with a New Wig?

Before anything else, give your new wig a proper shake. Hold it by the base and gently shake it out-this helps to loosen up the fibers, get rid of any packing impressions, and bring some life into its style. After shaking, flip the wig upside-down and use a wire brush to gently detangle and fluff the strands. Brushing it in this position is great for adding volume and ensuring the hair isn't flat. Once you've given it this initial care, try it on a stand or your head to check the fit. Adjust if needed, so it's comfortable and secure. This process doesn't just prep the wig for wear but also allows you to see exactly how it'll look and feel when you step out wearing it.

How Do You Keep a Wig Moisturized?

Keeping your wig moisturized is crucial for retaining its luster, flexibility, and natural appearance. Here are methods to ensure your wig remains richly hydrated:

For Synthetic Wigs:

Use a Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a spray-on leave-in conditioner formulated for synthetic wigs to keep the fibers supple and prevent them from drying out.
Avoid High Heat: Heat styling can sap moisture from synthetic wigs. Use the lowest heat setting if necessary, or opt for air drying to maintain hydration.
Store Properly: Place your wig on a stand in a cool, dry area away from sunlight and heat, as these elements can drain the moisture from your wig.

For Human Hair Wigs:

Deep Conditioning Treatments: Implement regular deep conditioning sessions with products designed specifically for human hair wigs to restore moisture and address any dryness.
Natural Oils for Enhanced Moisture:Introduce oils like argan, jojoba, coconut, or macadamia oil into your wig care routine. These oils are renowned for their ability to lock in moisture and add a silky sheen without leaving a heavy residue. Just remember, a little goes a long way.
Proper Washing: Choose sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that infuse moisture rather than strip it away, ensuring the wig's hair remains well-nourished.

General Tips:

Minimize Washing: Frequent washing can deplete your wig of its natural oils. Wash only when it's truly needed to preserve moisture.
Detangle Gently: Detangling with care using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers can help maintain the integrity of the moisture barrier, especially when you work from the tips up to the roots.
Steer Clear of Alcohol-Based Products: Alcohol can be harsh on both synthetic and human hair fibers, leading to dryness. Look for styling products free from alcohol to keep your wig moist and healthy-looking.

Final Thoughts

Deciding to wash your new wig before you show it off is a simple step that can make a big difference. Whether you choose to do it now or later, what matters is that it suits your schedule and style needs. Washing it can help your wig look more natural, last longer, and feel better on your scalp, but if you're pressed for time or have a pre-styled piece you don't want to alter, waiting a bit is okay too. In the end, caring for your wig is all about ensuring that each time you wear it, you feel as good as you look-confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the world.

FAQ about Wigs

Q1: How often should I wash my wig?

Typically, it's recommended to wash your synthetic wig after wearing it 4-6 times. For human hair wigs, you can treat them more like natural hair, washing them every 7-10 wears, or when there is a buildup of products or an unusual smell.

Q2: Can I use regular hair shampoo and conditioner on my wig?

It's best to use products specifically designed for wigs. Regular hair care products may contain ingredients that can damage the fibers or strip the color from your wig.

Q3: Will washing my wig reduce its lifespan?

Proper washing using correct methods and products should not shorten your wig's lifespan. In fact, it generally helps in maintaining its look and durability.

Q4: Can I wear my wig as it air dries?

Wearing a wet wig is not recommended as it can be uncomfortable and cause cap stretching. It can also lead to unpleasant odors and potential damage to the wig fibers.

Q5: What if I don't have time to let my wig air dry?

If you're short on time, using a blow dryer in a cool setting from a distance can speed up the process. However, this should be done sparingly with synthetic wigs to avoid heat damage.

Q6: Is it necessary to style my wig after every wash?

Styling after washing depends on the fibres of your wig. Synthetic wigs often have a "memory" for their style, which returns once the wig is dry. Human hair wigs may need restyling to achieve the desired look.

Q7: Can I sleep or swim in my wig?

Sleeping in your wig can cause tangling and matting, so it's not recommended. As for swimming, chlorinated water can damage the wig, so it's best to avoid it or wear a swim cap.

Q8: What is the best way to store my wig after washing it?

Once completely dry, store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to retain its shape. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a humid environment to prevent fiber degradation.

Q9: Will washing a synthetic wig make it softer?

Yes, washing a synthetic wig can help make it softer. Over time, build-up from styling products and environmental dust can make the fibers stiff. Washing it with a gentle, wig-specific shampoo can remove this build-up, leading to a softer feel.

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