The GlowAfrique Guide
How to care for your wig
A wig is an investment. A little routine keeps it soft, shiny and long-lasting — so your crown looks fresh from day one to day ninety.
Wash cadence
1–2 wks
Every 10–15 wears
Detangle
First
Always before water
Dry
Air
Never rub or wring
Store
Stand
Cool, dry, out of sun
Before you wash
1
Detangle gently
Use a wide-tooth comb starting at the ends and working up. Never yank from the roots — the knots build at the ends.
2
Brush the hair
Work in small sections with a wig brush or detangling brush. Loose, knot-free hair washes far better.
3
Soak before lather
Soak the wig in lukewarm water first so shampoo spreads evenly instead of pooling in one spot.
Washing
Wash every 1–2 weeks or every 10–15 wears — not more. Over-washing strips moisture and shortens the wig’s life.
- Lukewarm water only. Hot water damages the hair and can melt synthetic fibres.
- Sulfate-free shampoo. Dilute it with water first, then apply in downward strokes — never scrub in circles.
- Follow the hair grain. Wash from cap to ends, the same direction the hair falls.
- No long soak of the lace. Fill a bowl and gently swish; don’t submerge the lace cap for long.
Conditioning & treating
- Deep condition weekly. Apply conditioner or a hair mask from mid-length to ends — keep it off the lace and roots.
- Leave it in. Let the mask sit 5–10 minutes (a shower cap locks in warmth and penetration).
- Rinse cool. A cool final rinse seals the cuticle for extra shine and softness.
- Light oils for human hair. Argan, jojoba or almond oil on the ends restores moisture and prevents frizz.
Drying
- Blot, don’t rub. Press gently with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt.
- Never wring. Squeezing twists the fibres and causes permanent crimps.
- Air dry on a stand. Place the wig on a mannequin head or wig stand to keep its shape while drying.
- Skip the heat. No hairdryers. If you must, use the cool setting on low.
- Never sleep on wet hair. Damp wigs tangle and mat beyond repair.
Styling & heat
- Heat protectant, always. Spray liberally before any hot tool — non-negotiable for human hair.
- Keep heat low. Stay at or below 160°C for human hair; synthetic wigs should not be heat-styled at all.
- Comb cool. Let the hair cool completely before combing so the style sets and holds.
- Go easy on the edges. Avoid tight styles and heavy gel that stress the lace and damage the hairline.
Storage
- Store on a stand. A mannequin head or wig stand keeps the cap’s shape between wears.
- Braid or wrap it. Lightly braid or wrap long wigs before storing to stop tangling.
- Cool and dry. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat and humidity — a satin bag is ideal.
- Travel safe. Pack in a wig box or satin-lined bag; don’t squash it into luggage.
Do’s & Don’ts
Do
- Detangle from the ends up
- Wash with lukewarm water
- Air dry on a stand
- Store on a mannequin head
- Use sulfate-free products
Don’t
- Rub, wring or brush wet hair
- Sleep in a wet or damp wig
- Use hot water or harsh shampoos
- Heat-style synthetic fibres
- Leave it in direct sunlight
Quick care routine
| Frequency | Routine |
|---|---|
| Every wear | Light detangle, re-style edges, store on stand |
| Every 10–15 wears | Full wash with sulfate-free shampoo |
| Weekly | Deep condition with hair mask |
| Monthly | Light trim of split ends, oil the tips |
