Should you wash your human hair wig before wearing it?
Yes, for best results, you should shampoo and condition your human hair wigs before you style and wear them. Human hair typically arrives with a conditioner that is used to preserve the style and retain moisture during shipment. If this coating is not washed off, you will have a harder time styling your hair for the first time.
Note: this does NOT apply to our premiere collection wigs, or following a customize order. Our in-house cosmetologist takes care of washing and styling your wig following a custom color and/or highlights.
Below we answer some of your questions for washing your brand new Integrity Wigs' piece.
CAN YOU WASH A HUMAN HAIR WIG WITH REGULAR SHAMPOO?
Human hair wigs can be washed with regular shampoo, but it’s recommended you use products formulated for color treated hair. Keep in mind human hair has been chemically treated and unlike our own hair, it is not moisturized naturally. Avoid clarifying shampoos as these are designed to strip buildup and will cause your wig to be dry and weak.
CAN I WASH MY HUMAN HAIR WIG WITH HOT WATER?
When washing any wig, it’s best to use lukewarm to cool water. Hot water can dry out the hair. Note, cold water can make it harder to rinse shampoo and any product you apply to the hair.
WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR HUMAN HAIR WIGS?
Human hair ends love added moisture and oils or serums. Human hair ends are subject to the most damage so adding a little extra care is important. Professional-grade oils are suggested - argon oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and olive oil are the most commonly used natural ingredients. Avoid placing at the root or base of the wig.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WIG SHAMPOO AND REGULAR SHAMPOO?
Wig shampoos are made to clean and freshen without striping the hair or fiber. Human hair products are designed for our own hair and scalp so usually have more cleansing agents that make it strong enough to remove natural oils and product build up. Human hair shampoos are made to remove unwanted oils so it’s important to condition after to add back some of that moisture. Regular shampoo can be used however, we don’t recommend it on every wash as it can be stripping over time.
PREPARE YOUR WIG FOR WASHING
Gently remove tangles with a wide-tooth comb. Start at the ends and slowly work toward the roots to avoid damage. It is recommended that a wig-specific brush be used for detangling.
WASH
Do not soak or submerge product. Only rinse by holding the hair under cool running water. Place a small amount of shampoo for color-treated hair in your hand, evenly and gently stroke it through the hair in a downwards motion from the roots to the ends. Rinse by holding under cool running water until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze to press out excess water. Do not twist or wring.
Place a small amount of conditioner for color-treated hair in your hand, evenly and gently work it through the hair in a downwards motion from the mid-shaft. Avoid base and root. Leave conditioner on for 1-2 minutes - do not exceed 3-5 minutes.
Rinse by holding under cool running water until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze or use a clean, dry towel to press out excess water. Do not twist or wring.
DRYING YOUR WIG(S)
Heat-styling vs air drying is highly recommended. Heat smooths the cuticle making it look and feel softer. If you plan on taking your human hair wig or hairpiece to a stylist to color, be sure to remind them it must be washed first. The coating will affect how color absorbs and should always be washed prior to chemically treating. We recommend storing on a wig form rather than laying flat to keep its shape.