Synthetic wigs tangle for a different reason than human hair. The fiber has no cuticle, so friction from collars, pillows and wind roughs up the surface and the strands grab each other, usually at the nape and the ends first. Pulling a brush through a dry knot stretches the fiber and leaves permanent frizz. The fix is to lubricate first, then separate, then seal.
What you need
- A wide-tooth comb or a wig brush with looped bristles
- An oil-free detangler made for synthetic hair, such as Wig Detangler & Cuticle Sealer or Frizz-Free Detangling Spray
- A wig stand or a clean towel on a flat surface
- Duckbill clips to section
Skip regular conditioner, oils and household products. Oil-based products coat synthetic fiber and attract more dust, which makes the next tangle worse.
Step 1: Put the wig on a stand and section it
Working on a stand keeps the cap from stretching while you pull. Clip the top two-thirds of the hair up and start with the bottom layer at the nape, where the worst knots live.
Step 2: Spray the tangled section until it is damp, not wet
Hold the bottle 6 to 8 inches away and mist the section, focusing on the knots. Let it sit for one minute. A lightweight detangler lowers the friction between fibers so they slide apart. If you are using the Wig Detangler & Cuticle Sealer, it also lays a thin protective layer on the fiber that slows the next tangle.
Step 3: Start at the ends and work up
Hold the section firmly above the knot with one hand so the tension never reaches the cap. Comb the last two inches until they are clear, then move up two inches and repeat. Never start at the roots. If a knot will not give, spray it again and pick it apart with your fingers before going back to the comb.
Step 4: Release the next section and repeat
Work in horizontal layers from the nape to the crown. Most wigs take 10 to 15 minutes this way. Rushing the top before the bottom is clear re-tangles the layers you already did.
Step 5: Seal and set
Once the whole wig combs clean, mist it lightly with Oil-Free Wig Shine and comb through once more. The oil-free formula restores the smooth, reflective surface that friction wore off without the greasy buildup that attracts lint. Let the wig air dry on the stand.
How to keep it from tangling again
- Mist the nape with a leave-in such as Tangle Free Leave-In Conditioner before you wear it, especially with a scarf or a high collar.
- Store the wig on a stand or in a satin bag, never in a bag with other wigs.
- Sleep in a satin bonnet or take the wig off at night. Cotton pillowcases are the number one cause of nape knots.
- Detangle every two to three wears rather than waiting for a matted section.
When the tangle will not come out
If the ends feel crunchy or look permanently frizzed after detangling, the fiber has been heat or friction damaged and no product will restore it. Trim the last half inch and use the steps above from the first wear on the next wig. Heat-friendly synthetic wigs can sometimes be smoothed with a flat iron on the lowest setting after detangling; standard synthetic fiber cannot take heat at all.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fabric softener or dish soap to detangle a synthetic wig? Fabric softener is a common internet tip. It does soften fiber, but it leaves a residue that dulls shine and it is not made for anything that sits on your skin. A detangler made for synthetic hair does the same job without the residue.
Does wig shine detangle? Oil-Free Wig Shine reduces friction, so it helps with light tangles and keeps a detangled wig smooth. For a matted section, use the Detangler & Cuticle Sealer first, then the shine.
How often should I wash a synthetic wig? Every 8 to 10 wears for daily wear. Over-washing roughs up the fiber and increases tangling.
Bonfi Natural has made oil-free wig care sold in beauty supply stores since 1995. Every product above is safe on synthetic and human hair wigs, weaves and extensions.
