wig enthusiasts! We all love our wigs for how they let us switch up our look instantly. Whether you’re rocking a wig every day or just for special occasions, keeping it looking fabulous can be a bit of a challenge. If your beloved wig is looking a bit tangled, frizzy, or just plain tired, don’t worry—I’ve got your back! Let’s dive into some easy, at-home tips to restore your wig’s shine and make it look as good as new.

Part 1: Restoring Shine with a Conditioning Treatment

Step 1: Drench It in Conditioner

First things first, you need to get your wig soaking wet. If it’s already dry, give it a good rinse in the sink. Now, grab a generous amount of conditioner—about two ounces should do the trick. Work that conditioner into every strand of the wig. It should feel silky smooth and fully coated.

Step 2: Microwave Magic

Here’s a fun trick: put your wig inside a large plastic bag and pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. This heats the hair slightly, creating steam inside the bag, which helps the conditioner work its magic. Be sure the bag is sealed tight!

Step 3: Let It Sit and Soak

After microwaving, let the wig sit in the bag for at least an hour. The bag might be hot, so handle it carefully. This soaking time allows the conditioner to penetrate deep into the hair, making it super soft and shiny. For extra moisture retention, you can cover the bag with a hot, steamed towel.

Step 4: Gentle Combing

Once the hour is up, take the wig out and give it a gentle comb-through with a wide-toothed comb or a vent brush. Hold the wig upright or place it on a wig head to keep it steady. You’ll find it detangles easily and feels incredibly smooth.

Step 5: Air Drying

Now, let your wig air-dry naturally on a wig head. Squeeze out any excess water gently before setting it up. Avoid using heat to dry it, as this can damage the fibers. Just let it dry naturally, and it’ll thank you with a beautiful shine.

Part 2: Cleaning Your Wig with a Bleach Bath

Step 1: Prepare Your Bowls

For this part, you’ll need three large bowls filled with hot water—each holding about a gallon. It’s best to use bowls that aren’t used for food. If you only have one bowl, you can rinse and refill it as needed.

Step 2: The Bleach Solution

In the first bowl, add about two ounces of Clorox bleach. This will help open up the hair’s cuticles, making it easier to clean and detangle. Remember to wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation.

Step 3: Submerge and Comb

Dip your wig into the bleach water and gently comb it through for about three minutes. Use a wide-toothed comb and be careful not to leave it in for too long, as bleach can affect the color. This step removes dirt, oils, and helps detangle the hair.

Step 4: Shampoo Rinse

Move the wig to the second bowl filled with hot water and add two ounces of clarifying shampoo. This helps neutralize the bleach and cleans the wig thoroughly. Swish the wig around and work the shampoo in for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Ammonia Rinse

In the third bowl, add two ounces of ammonia to neutralize any remaining bleach. Gently comb through the wig again for a minute or two. This step ensures that all the bleach is removed, leaving your wig clean and fresh.

Step 6: Thorough Rinse

Finally, rinse the wig under hot running water. Hold it so that the cap part is facing up, allowing the water to flow through the hair, preventing tangles. Make sure all the bleach, shampoo, and ammonia are completely washed out.

Part 3: Taking Care of Your Wig

Step 1: Regular Shampoo and Conditioning

If you wear your wig often, treat it like your own hair. Shampoo and condition it regularly—at least every third day you wear it. Start with a clarifying shampoo to remove dirt and build-up, followed by a moisturizing shampoo to add softness. Rinse thoroughly to remove all product residues.

Step 2: Proper Storage

Store your wig on a wig head when you’re not using it. This keeps it from tangling and helps it maintain its shape. If you’re traveling, divide the hair into three or four loose ponytails to prevent tangles.

Step 3: Use a Satin Bag

For longer storage, place your wig inside a satin bag. The smooth fabric reduces friction, helping to keep the hair soft and tangle-free. Satin is also great for retaining moisture, keeping your wig looking fresh.

Step 4: Quick Fixes for Frizz

If your wig gets frizzy or tangled, a flat iron can be a quick fix. Gently brush the hair, then divide it into sections. Run the flat iron through each section, following it with a brush to smooth out the hair.

Restoring your wig to its former glory is easier than you might think. With a little bit of conditioner, some careful cleaning, and proper care, you can make your wig look as good as new. Remember, the key is patience and gentle handling. So, give your wig the love it deserves and enjoy rocking your beautiful hair again!

 

How to Restore Human Hair Wigs: 7 Essential FAQs

1. Can I really bring my old wig back to life?

Absolutely! It might seem like your wig is beyond saving, but with a little TLC, you can make it look fabulous again. Think of it as giving your wig a spa day—it just needs some love and the right treatments to shine once more.

2. What’s the first step to restoring my wig?

Start by giving it a good wash. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, just like you would on your own hair. Make sure to detangle it carefully with a wide-toothed comb. This helps to remove any dirt and product buildup, setting a clean slate for the restoration process.

3. How do I deal with frizz and tangles?

Conditioner is your best friend here. Once your wig is clean and wet, drench it in a rich conditioner. Work it through the strands and let it sit for a bit. You can even pop it in a plastic bag and microwave it for about 30 seconds—this helps the conditioner penetrate deeply and works wonders on frizz and tangles.

4. What’s a good way to restore shine and softness?

A conditioning treatment can do miracles. After the conditioner, let the wig sit in a bag for an hour to soak up all the moisture. Then, gently comb through it and let it air dry on a wig stand. This process makes the hair smooth and shiny again, almost like new!

5. Can I use heat tools on my wig?

Yes, but be careful. If your wig is made of human hair, you can use a flat iron or curling iron on a low heat setting. Always use a heat protectant spray to avoid damage. Just like with your natural hair, too much heat can cause harm, so use it sparingly.

6. How often should I wash and condition my wig?

If you wear your wig often, aim to wash and condition it at least every third time you wear it. This keeps it clean and moisturized, preventing it from looking dull or getting tangled. Regular care is key to maintaining its beauty and longevity.

7. What’s the best way to store my wig when I’m not wearing it?

Keep your wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape and avoid tangles. If you need to store it for a longer period, a satin bag is ideal. The smooth fabric reduces friction, keeping the hair from drying out and getting tangled. Think of it as a cozy bed for your wig!