How to wash, detangle, and restore synthetic wigs

Whether you wear a synthetic wig for fashion, convenience, or comfort, proper care makes all the difference in how long it looks good and how natural it feels. At CNG Wigs NZ in Auckland, you can not only explore our wide range of synthetic wigs and human hair wigs online, but also book an in-store consultation to receive personalised advice and hands-on guidance on caring for your wig properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash, detangle, and restore synthetic wigs, adapted from our in-house care advice and expert tips from wig-care specialists.

Why It Matters to Wash, Detangle, and Restore Synthetic Wigs

Even synthetic wigs need gentle care. Over time, dust, styling residue, sweat, and friction can make fibres dull, tangled, or stiff. Regularly washing and detangling your wig helps maintain its smoothness, shine, and shape — extending its lifespan and keeping it comfortable to wear.

At CNG Wigs, we always recommend sensitive handling: start by smoothing your wig with a wide-tooth comb before washing, and avoid any rough pulling or twisting.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

• A wide-tooth comb or wig brush (for detangling)

• A basin or clean sink with cool or lukewarm water

• Wig-specific shampoo and conditioner made for synthetic fibres

• A wig stand for air drying

• A soft towel for blotting excess water

• Optional: a leave-in detangling or conditioning spray to restore softness and reduce frizz

Step 1: Detangle Before Washing

Start with your wig dry. Using a wide-tooth comb or wig-safe brush, gently comb through the ends first, then move upward toward the roots. Avoid tugging or pulling — synthetic fibres don’t recover from stretching.

Pre-detangling prevents knots from tightening during washing and helps keep the fibres smooth. If your wig is long or tends to tangle around the nape, lightly mist it with water and a small amount of synthetic wig detangler before brushing.

Step 2: Wash Gently

Fill a basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water. Hold your wig with one hand and pour water over it until it’s damp — not soaking wet. Avoid hot water, which can deform synthetic fibres.

Add a small amount of synthetic wig shampoo and gently work it through the hair using your fingers. Never scrub or twist the fibres; instead, swirl the wig lightly in the water and let the shampoo do the cleaning.

Rinse thoroughly under cool water until the water runs clear. To condition, apply a small amount of wig conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse again.

Pat the wig dry gently with a towel — never wring or squeeze — and place it on a wig stand to air dry. For regular synthetic wigs, avoid blow-drying or using any heat tools, as heat can melt or distort the fibres.

If your wig is heavily styled, gently shake it after rinsing to loosen the strands and help it return to its natural shape.

Step 3: Restore and Style Without Damage

Once your wig is completely dry, it’s time to restore its softness and shape. Use a lightweight, leave-in conditioning spray made for synthetic wigs to reduce frizz and add smoothness.

Unless your wig is clearly labelled “heat-friendly” or “heat-resistant,” avoid using curling irons, straighteners, or hair dryers. For regular synthetic wigs, use only your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to style.

If your curls or waves have flattened, try cold rollers or a very low steam setting (only if the wig’s care label allows) to refresh the shape. And when you’re not wearing it, always store your wig on a stand to preserve its form and prevent tangling.

Step 4: Extra Care Tips

To keep your synthetic wig looking its best between washes, remember:

• Wash every 10–15 wears or when it begins to feel heavy or lose its shine. Overwashing can shorten the life of synthetic fibres.

• Avoid sleeping or swimming in your wig — friction, chlorine, and saltwater can cause tangling and damage.

• Use only wig-safe products. Regular human hair sprays, serums, or oils can leave residue and make fibres sticky.

• Keep away from heat sources such as ovens, open flames, or hair dryers. Even brief exposure can cause melting or frizzing.

Troubleshooting Common Wig Issues

If your wig starts to tangle at the back or nape, it’s often caused by friction from clothing or long wear. Regular light detangling with a wig spray can help prevent matting.

When fibres become dull or stiff, use less shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and finish with a lightweight leave-in conditioner. If waves or curls lose shape, let the wig air dry on a stand and use cold rollers or gentle steam to refresh it.

Finally, if you notice shedding or cap damage, it’s usually a sign of rough handling. Be gentle when brushing, and avoid applying conditioner directly onto the cap or knots.

Final Thoughts

Your synthetic wig is more than just a beauty accessory — it’s part of your daily confidence. With the right care routine, you can keep it looking natural, comfortable, and stylish for months to come.

At CNG Wigs NZ in Auckland, we’re here to help you look and feel your best. You can browse our collection of synthetic and human hair wigs online, or book an in-store consultation for personalised advice on how to wash, detangle, and restore synthetic wigs the right way. Visit us today and discover how effortless wig care can be.