How to Soften a Stiff Old Wig: A Step-by-Step Guide

Has your once-vibrant wig lost its luster and become stiff and lifeless? Don't despair! With a little TLC, you can revive your old wig and make it look and feel brand new again. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process, including tips for both synthetic and curly wigs.

Tools and Products You'll Need

• Wig stand or mannequin head: To support the wig while you work.
• Wide-tooth comb or wig brush: To gently detangle the wig.
• Spray bottle: For applying water or wig conditioner.
• Wig conditioner: Specifically formulated for wigs. You can also use a deep conditioner or hair mask.
• Optional: Leave-in conditioner, shine serum, wig spray.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Wig

1. Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to secure it.
2. Gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to prevent tangles and breakage.
3. If the wig is heavily tangled, you can use a detangling spray or conditioner to help loosen the knots.

2. Deep Condition the Wig

1. Fill the spray bottle with lukewarm water and add a generous amount of wig conditioner. You can also use a deep conditioner or hair mask.
2. Saturate the wig thoroughly with the conditioner, making sure to coat all the strands.
3. Cover the wig with a plastic bag or wrap it in a towel to create a steam effect. This helps the conditioner penetrate the hair fibers.
4. Let the conditioner sit for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the stiffness.

3. Rinse and Style

1. Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water to remove all the conditioner.
2. Gently squeeze out excess water using a towel. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wig to prevent damage.
3. If desired, apply a leave-in conditioner or shine serum to the wig for added softness and shine.
4. Style the wig as usual. You can use a wig spray to help hold the style in place.

Tips for Softening Curly Wigs

Curly wigs can become stiff and tangled due to their texture. Here are some additional tips for softening curly wigs:

• Use a curl-defining conditioner or leave-in conditioner specifically designed for curly wigs.
• Avoid using heat styling tools on curly wigs, as they can further dry out the hair.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle curly wigs. Avoid brushing, as it can cause frizz.
• After washing, gently scrunch the curls to define them and enhance their natural texture.

Tips for Softening Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic wigs are more prone to stiffness and dryness. Here are some additional tips for softening synthetic wigs:

• Use a wig conditioner specifically formulated for synthetic wigs. Avoid using conditioners designed for human hair, as they can leave a residue that can make the wig look dull.
• Consider using a fabric softener on synthetic wigs. Add a small amount of fabric softener to a basin of water and soak the wig for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
• Avoid using heat styling tools on synthetic wigs, as they can damage the fibers and make them more brittle.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your wig soft and manageable, follow these maintenance tips:

• Wash your wig regularly, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to prevent tangles and damage.
• Avoid exposing your wig to extreme heat or humidity, as it can cause dryness and damage.

By following these simple steps, you can easily soften a stiff old wig and give it a new lease on life. Remember, a little TLC goes a long way in keeping your wigs looking and feeling their best.