As with all types of hair, there will come a time when you need to clean it! But with human hair wigs, it's not as often as you may think...
Ok, so when do I wash it?
Only wash your unit if you have excess product build up. Usually once a month is plenty. As wigs don't have the natural oils or nutrients a scalp would normally have, it is important not to over wash and to keep your unit well conditioned. Deep conditioning overnight is a great way to keep your unit hydrated and moisturised.
How do I actually wash it?
1. Before washing, start by removing all knots and tangles with a wide tooth comb. Make sure to pay particular attention to the nape area as this is notorious for getting knotty. Brush from the ends up to the roots, to gently remove any tangles.
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2. Fill a bowl/ sink with lukewarm water, add a few drops of Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and mix together. Soak your wig in the bowl/sink for a few minutes, and gently wash the hair from root to tip in a smooth motion. Don't apply the shampoo directly to the wig, you'll be washing the wig with the soapy water instead. Make sure you do not scrub, twist or ring the hair. Rinse well, letting the clean water flow down the hair.
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3. Pat the hair dry; ideally with a microfibre towel, they are much softer and cause less friction to the cuticle (you can use a normal towel if you haven't got one) Remove any excess water by patting the hair gently, making sure not to scrub or ring the hair.
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4. Apply Pureology Conditioner to the lengths and ends, and use a wide tooth comb to work the product through the towel dried hair. (Make sure you avoid the root area, as this will loosen the knots and encourage shedding.) Leave to condition overnight.
​The Pureology Hydrate range will always be the shampoo and conditioner I recommend to anyone. Not only does it have colour protect properties, it will also leave the hair so so enriched, sleek and shiny. It's sulphate free, vegan friendly, super moisturising and replenishing. Plus it has a gorgeous spa aroma!
5. Thoroughly rinse the conditioner out with cold water. Cold water will help to seal the cuticle and will impart shine and smoothness. Afterwards, pat the hair dry to remove any excess water.
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6. Place on a wig stand, comb through with a wide tooth comb. Apply oil/ leave in conditioner to lengths & ends. My favourite oils to use are the Kerastase Elixir Ultimate or a slightly more affordable option is the Redken All Soft Argan Oil. These are both fantastic at leaving the hair shiny and subtle while reducing frizz and have heat protection properties. (A few pumps is all you need!) Leave to air dry.
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7. You can style with tongs/wands/ straighteners once fully dried, but to increase the longevity of your wig, I'd keep heat styling to a minimum where possible. If you are going to heat style, always apply a heat protector prior to doing this and do not exceed 160°.
8. You're ready to go!