Wig Wash Guide

Proper washing helps keep your wig clean, soft and in good condition. The main thing is to handle the hair gently and make sure all products are rinsed out properly.

Good to know

Use Paul Mitchell Detox Shampoo and Silicon Mix only once a month for a detox wash to remove product buildup. Dilute them as usual, but use them separately. Do not detox every wash, as it can dry out the hair.


Before Washing

Brush through the wig gently before washing.

Start at the ends and work your way up. Hold the hair while brushing to avoid unnecessary tension on the wig. Make sure the hair is fully detangled before getting it wet.

Step 1: Wash the Hair

Do not apply shampoo directly to the hair. Diluting the shampoo helps it spread evenly, cleanse properly and rinse out more easily without leaving excess product behind.

Mix 1 teaspoon of shampoo with a small 33 cl bottle of warm water and shake well.

Wet the wig thoroughly with warm water, then apply the diluted shampoo evenly through the hair. Gently work the shampoo through the lengths using your hands, always following the direction of the hair. Do not rub, scrub or twist the hair. Pay extra attention to the hairline and underneath the wig where oils and styling products can build up.

Rinse thoroughly with clean warm water until all shampoo has been removed. 

Step 2: Apply the Hair Mask

Do not apply the hair mask directly to the hair.

Mix 1 tablespoon of hair mask with a small 33 cl bottle of warm water.

Close the bottle and shake very well until the mask is fully mixed into the water and the mixture looks smooth.

Apply the mixture evenly through the lengths of the hair, focusing especially on the mid lengths and ends. Avoid applying the mask directly to the lace or knot area. Conditioner and hair masks can make the knots too slippery, which may cause them to loosen and lead to shedding over time.

Gently work the mixture through the hair with your hands. Avoid rubbing, scrubbing or twisting the hair. Leave it in for a 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean warm water. 

Step 3: Leave In and Dry

Straight out of the shower, apply a small amount of smoothing leave in product.

I prefer to use about a pea sized amount, mix it with a little water in the palms of my hands, then smooth it gently through the hair. This helps distribute the product evenly without weighing the hair down.

While the wig is still damp, part the hair exactly where you want it to sit. The hair will naturally begin to dry in that direction, which helps create a smoother finish and reduce frizz. To avoid tangles completely, gently brush the hair downward in one direction while it is still damp. Keep the brushing very light and controlled, without pulling or overworking the hair.

Once the part is set and the hair is lying smoothly in one direction, place the wig on a wig head and allow it to air dry. Avoid heavy brushing while the hair is soaking wet.