How to Maintain & Wash Synthetic vs Human Hair Wigs: The Complete BX Babe Guide

Whether you’re rocking a luxury human hair frontal or a cute synthetic throw-on wig for the weekend, one thing’s for sure — your wig deserves care just like your natural hair.
A well-maintained unit lasts longer, looks better, and melts like it came fresh out the salon every time.

But synthetic hair and human hair wigs do not require the same routine — and treating them the same is one of the biggest wig-wearing mistakes we see.

Don’t worry, BX Babe — we got you. 💅🏽
Here’s the right way to wash and maintain both types.

👑 Human Hair Wigs: Care Like It’s YOUR Hair

Human hair wigs are an investment, so keeping them soft, shiny, and lasting as long as possible is key.

How Often Should You Wash a Human Hair Wig?

Every 7–14 wears, depending on:

• Lace glue buildup

• Heat styling

• Products used

• Weather & sweat

If the hair feels stiff, product-heavy, or won’t hold curls — it’s wash day.

Wash Routine for Human Hair Wigs

1. Detangle gently

   • Start with wide-tooth comb or detangling brush

   • Begin from the ends and work upward

2. Use sulfate-free shampoo

   • Harsh cleansers dry out human hair fast

   • Apply shampoo with downward strokes — NEVER scrub, twist, or pile the hair

3. Condition generously

   • Let conditioner sit 5–10 minutes

   • Focus on mid-shaft to ends

4. Rinse with cool water

   • Helps seal cuticle = smooth + shiny

5. Air dry

   • Place the unit on a wig stand

   • Avoid placing it on a mannequin head while wet — it can stretch the lace

Extra Human Hair Wig Tips

✨ Deep condition every 3–4 washes
✨ Use heat protectant — ALWAYS
✨ Store on a satin bag, mannequin, or wig stand

💅🏽 Synthetic Wigs: Low-Maintenance, High-Slay

Synthetic wigs don’t need as much product or heat — but they DO need proper washing.

How Often Should You Wash a Synthetic Wig?

Every 10–15 wears, or sooner if:

• The fiber looks frizzy

• The movement is stiff

• The shine looks too “wiggy”

Wash Routine for Synthetic Wigs

1. Detangle first

   • Brush lightly using a wig brush

2. Soak — don’t scrub

   • Fill a basin with cool water

   • Add a capful of synthetic-safe shampoo

   • Let the unit sit 5–10 minutes

3. Rinse gently

   • Run cool water down the hair — no rubbing

4. Condition (optional but recommended)

   • Use synthetic wig conditioner only — regular conditioner can damage the fibers

5. Air dry

   • Synthetic wigs bounce back to their original curl pattern once dry — no styling required

Extra Synthetic Wig Tips

✨ Avoid heat unless labeled heat-safe
✨ Use lightweight mousse or sheen spray sparingly
✨ Use a wide-tooth comb — no fine-tooth brushes