Buying a human hair wig is an exciting experience, but one common question new wig owners ask is: Should I wash my human hair wig before wearing it? The short answer is it depends on the wig’s origin, manufacturing process, and how you prefer your wig to look and feel. Here’s everything you need to consider before deciding whether to wash your new wig before its first wear.
1. Is Your Wig Ready-to-Wear?
Some human hair wigs come pre-washed and pre-styled, meaning they are ready to wear straight out of the box. These wigs have been professionally cleaned and treated, so they don’t require immediate washing. However, if your wig has a strong factory smell or feels coated in excess product, you may prefer to give it a gentle cleanse before wearing it.
2. When Should You Wash Your Wig Before Wearing It?
If your wig:
-
Feels stiff or coated with styling products
-
Has a strong factory or packaging smell
-
Was purchased from a retailer that doesn’t pre-wash their wigs
-
Feels dry or unnatural to the touch Then a quick wash can help soften the strands and make the wig feel more natural and lightweight.
3. How to Wash Your Human Hair Wig Before First Wear
If you decide to wash your wig, follow these steps to ensure you maintain its quality:
Step 1: Detangle
Before washing, gently detangle your wig using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to prevent shedding.
Step 2: Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoo formulated for human hair wigs.
Step 3: Submerge & Gently Cleanse
Dip the wig into the water and gently swish it around. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can cause tangling.
Step 4: Rinse & Condition
Rinse the wig thoroughly with lukewarm water and apply a moisturizing wig conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Step 5: Air Dry
Pat the wig gently with a towel to remove excess water and place it on a wig stand to air dry naturally. Avoid blow-drying to preserve the hair’s natural texture and shine.
4. When Should You Skip Washing?
If your wig is pre-styled, freshly conditioned, and ready-to-wear, washing it immediately could strip some of the natural movement or styling. In this case, simply shaking it out and giving it a gentle brush is enough before wearing.
Conclusion
While not all human hair wigs need to be washed before their first wear, if your wig feels stiff, coated, or has a factory smell, a gentle cleanse can enhance its softness and movement. Always follow proper wig care techniques to maintain your wig’s longevity and shine. Ready to find the perfect human hair wigs in Australia? Browse our high-quality collection at Lace Fronts Australia today!