Carol Wig by Ellen Wille | Synthetic Hair | Petite/Average Cap

Synthetic wigs and hair toppers are made with a lightweight fiber that holds its style, color and curl pattern, even after washing. With simple care, a synthetic wig stays soft, shiny and natural-looking for months. This guide covers how to wash, dry, detangle and store a regular synthetic wig or topper. If your wig is heat friendly (HF, HD or heat resistant), see our Heat Friendly Wig Care Guide instead.

Synthetic Wig Care: Quick Answers

• How often should I wash a synthetic wig? About every 6 to 8 wears, or sooner in hot weather or if you use styling products.
• Can I use heat on a synthetic wig? No. Curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers can melt or frizz regular synthetic fiber. Only heat friendly synthetic and human hair wigs can be heat styled.
• What shampoo should I use? A shampoo and conditioner made for synthetic fiber. Regular shampoo can dry out and dull the fiber.
• How do I dry it? Let it air dry on a wig stand. Do not blow dry.
• How long does a synthetic wig last? With regular wear and good care, most synthetic wigs last about 4 to 6 months.

How to Wash a Synthetic Wig or Topper

1. Gently remove tangles with a wide tooth comb, starting at the ends and working up.
2. Hold the wig under cool running water, letting the water flow in the direction the hair falls.
3. Gently lather a capful of shampoo made for synthetic hair through the fiber, keeping the hair moving in one direction. Do not rub or scrub, which causes tangling.
4. Rinse thoroughly in cool water until the water runs clear.
5. Wrap the wig in a towel and gently pat out the excess water. Do not wring or twist it.
6. Mist the ends with a conditioning spray made for synthetic hair and gently detangle with a wide tooth comb, keeping the conditioner away from the cap.

How to Dry and Style a Synthetic Wig

• Place the wig on a plastic or wire wig stand and let it air dry completely. Do not blow dry.
• Make sure the cap is fully dry before wearing or storing the wig.
• Once dry, shake the wig out and style it with your fingertips or a wig brush or comb. The fiber will return to its original style.
• Do not use curling irons, flat irons or blow dryers unless the wig is specifically labeled heat friendly synthetic or human hair.

How to Prevent Tangling and Frizz

Synthetic fiber can tangle or frizz over time, especially at the nape and on mid-length and long styles, where hair rubs against collars, scarves and car seats. To keep it smooth:

• Detangle daily with a detangling spray and a wide tooth comb.
• Always comb from the ends upward, never from the root down.
• Reduce friction at the nape by avoiding rough collars and high-friction fabrics.
• Avoid brushing curly or wavy styles when dry; separate curls with your fingers instead.

Keep Your Synthetic Wig Away from Heat

Regular synthetic fiber is sensitive to heat. Be cautious near open ovens, grills, heaters, dishwashers and steam, and when lighting candles or fireplaces. A sudden blast of heat can frizz or melt the fiber in seconds, and the damage can't be reversed.

How to Store a Synthetic Wig

• Store your wig on a wig stand or in its original hairnet, away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Keep it out of humid bathrooms when not in use.
• For travel, place it inside a hairnet and pack it loosely in a box or bag so it doesn't get crushed.

When to Replace a Synthetic Wig

Signs it's time for a new wig include frizz at the ends that won't comb out, a dry or dull texture, thinning at the nape or a stretched cap. Rotating between two wigs helps each one last longer.

Brand-Specific Synthetic Wig Care

• Caring for Your Rene of Paris Synthetic Wigs and Hair Toppers (also for Noriko and Amore)
• Jon Renau Synthetic Hair Care

Recommended Products for Synthetic Wigs

You'll need a synthetic wig shampoo and conditioner, a detangling spray, a wide tooth comb and a wig stand. Shop wig care products for synthetic hair.

Synthetic Wig Care FAQ

Can I sleep or shower in a synthetic wig?

It's best not to. Sleeping in a wig causes friction and tangling, and shower heat and steam can damage the fiber. Remove your wig and place it on a stand overnight.

Why is my synthetic wig frizzy at the ends?

Frizz is usually caused by friction against clothing or by exposure to heat. Detangle daily, reduce friction at the nape and keep the wig away from heat sources. Regular synthetic frizz can't be smoothed with heat, so prevention is key.

Can I color or dye a synthetic wig?

No. Synthetic fiber does not absorb hair dye. If you'd like a new color, choose a new wig; our wig color charts can help you compare shades by brand.

What's the difference between synthetic and heat friendly synthetic wigs?

Regular synthetic wigs hold their style permanently and can't be heat styled. Heat friendly synthetic wigs can be restyled with low heat but may need a little more daily care. See our Heat Friendly Wig Care Guide.

Can I use regular shampoo on a synthetic wig?

It's best not to. Regular shampoos can strip and dull synthetic fiber. Use products made specifically for synthetic wigs.

More Wig Care Guides

• How to Care for Heat Friendly Wigs and Toppers
• How to Care for Human Hair Wigs and Hair Toppers

Need help? Book a free virtual consultation with our team.