Synthetic wigs are a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option — but they’re also more delicate than human hair wigs. One wrong step can cause tangling, shedding, frizzing, or even irreversible melting. To keep your synthetic wig looking fresh and lasting as long as possible, avoid these five major mistakes.

1. Never Use Heat Tools (Unless It’s Labelled Heat-Safe)

Regular synthetic fibres cannot handle heat.
Curling irons, straighteners, blow dryers, and hot combs will melt, frizz, or deform the fibres permanently.

Avoid:

• Flat irons

• Curling wands

• Blow dryers

• Steaming close to the fibres

Exceptions:

If your wig is labelled heat-friendly, you may use low heat (typically under 150°C / 300°F) — but even then, sparingly.

2. Never Wash with Regular Shampoo or Hot Water

Synthetic fibres don’t behave like real hair.
Using regular shampoo can strip the coating and make the wig frizzy, stiff, or dull.

Avoid:

• Sulfate shampoos

• Hot water

• Harsh conditioners

Use Instead:

✔ Wig-safe shampoo
✔ Cool or lukewarm water
✔ Light synthetic wig conditioner spray

Hot water can relax the curls or change the shape, ruining the wig’s style permanently.

3. Never Sleep or Shower in Your Synthetic Wig

Synthetic wigs tangle easily — and friction from sleeping can cause knots, matting, and shedding.

Sleeping in your wig can cause:

• Severe tangling

• Fibre breakage

• Loss of style pattern

• Reduced lifespan

Showering in a synthetic wig is just as damaging. The steam, heat, and water pressure can ruin the fibres instantly.

4. Never Brush It Like Human Hair

Synthetic hair needs gentle handling.
Using the wrong brush or brushing too aggressively can stretch, snap, and damage the fibres.

Avoid:

• Fine-tooth combs

• Boar bristle brushes

• Tugging from the root

Use Instead:

✔ Wide-tooth comb
✔ Wig brush (looped bristles)
✔ Detangling spray made for synthetic wigs

Always start from the ends and work your way up.

5. Never Store It Without Detangling or Covering

Improper storage is one of the fastest ways to ruin a synthetic wig.

Avoid:

• Throwing it in a drawer

• Leaving it on the floor or bed

• Storing it tangled or damp

Proper Storage Options:

✔ Wig stand or mannequin head
✔ Original wig bag or silk bag
✔ Cool, dry, dust-free area

Storing a wig while it’s tangled or damp can cause shape distortion, matting, or unpleasant odours.

Final Thoughts

Synthetic wigs are gorgeous, convenient, and affordable — but they need the right care to stay that way. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll keep your wig smooth, shiny, and long-lasting.