Wig Care

How to Care for Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are a fabulous option for effortless style, vibrant color, and low-maintenance wear. Whether you're wearing your wig daily or saving it for special occasions, proper care is essential to maintaining its look, shape, and longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for cleaning, styling, storing, and preserving your synthetic wig.

Washing Your Synthetic Wig

Synthetic wigs don’t absorb oils from the scalp like natural hair, so they don’t need to be washed as often. In general, plan to wash your wig every couple of weeks if you wear it regularly, or when it appears dull, tangled, or has product buildup.

How to Wash Your Synthetic Wig

  1. Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting at the ends and working upward.
  2. Fill a basin with cool water and add a capful of synthetic wig shampoo.
  3. Immerse the wig and avoid rubbing or scrubbing.
  4. Rinse thoroughly in cool water.
  5. Apply wig conditioner designed for synthetic fibers, then rinse again. We recommend the SynWig No Rinse Conditioner.
  6. Pat dry with a towel (do not wring or twist).
  7. Air dry on a wig stand, avoiding direct sunlight or heat. If your wig is heat friendly, then you can actually use your blow dryer to dry it.

⛔ Avoid hot water and traditional shampoos.

We always use SynWig salon hair care products for the best results. You can find them in the Hair Care section of the site.

Styling Synthetic Wigs

Most synthetic wigs are pre-styled and hold their shape even after washing. However, you can refresh and maintain the style with the right approach. 

Styling Tips

  1. Use wig-safe styling sprays for hold and volume. See our list of wig care products and supplies.
  2. Gently shape with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
  3. Use heat tools for Belle Tress heat-friendly styles.
  4. We recommend a good silicone spray daily to keep your fibers detangled and reduce friction.
  5. Use tools under 275°F (135°C) and test a small section first.
  6. To re-curl your synthetic after washing, use the netting your hair came in to restructure wavy or curly styles and let them dry naturally.
  7. To add curl into your HF styles, add water from a spray bottle, use curlers to curl your hair, and then dry it with a hair dryer. Be sure to let it cool, as the cooling process will ensure it retains the curl.

Storage Tips

  1. Use a wig stand or mannequin head when not in use. Another option is a wig hanger. Our favorite is TheWigHanger. It prevents lace stretch and keeps the wig from sliding off. 
  2. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from heat, sunlight, and dust.
  3. When traveling, place the wig in a satin or hairnet-lined bag to prevent friction.

Extending Wig Life

With regular care, a synthetic wig can last 4–6 months with daily wear or up to a year with occasional use.

Dos and Don’ts

Do: 

  • Detangle before and after each use.
  • Use products designed specifically for synthetic wigs.
  • Wash gently and air dry.

Don't

  • Sleep or shower in your wig
  • Brush when wet (this can stretch or snap fibers).

Synthetic wigs are an excellent choice for beauty and convenience. With the proper care routine, your wig can stay vibrant, soft, and beautiful for months to come. At Locks and Tops, we’re here to help you get the most out of your investment — offering not only top-quality wigs, but also the resources to keep them looking their best.