Performance Academy › Care & Maintenance › Wig Care

Wig Care Guide

A well-maintained wig can last dozens of performances. Learn how to wash, detangle, style, and store your performance wigs to keep them looking stage-ready every time.

Quick Reference

Wash Frequency

Every 15–20 wears, or when product builds up

Water Temperature

Cool to lukewarm only — never hot

Drying Method

Air dry on a wig stand — never tumble dry

Heat Tools

Only on heat-resistant wigs — check label first

How to Wash Your Wig

Washing removes sweat, hairspray, and product buildup that dulls fibers and causes tangling. Use wig-specific shampoo or a gentle sulfate-free formula.

1

Detangle before washing

Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. Start from the ends and work upward. Never brush from root to tip on a tangled wig.

2

Fill a basin with cool water

Add a small amount of wig shampoo. Swirl to mix — do not use running water directly on the wig as it causes tangling.

3

Submerge and gently swish

Hold the wig by the cap and gently move it through the water. Do not scrub, twist, or wring. Soak for 5 minutes.

4

Rinse thoroughly

Empty the basin and refill with clean cool water. Submerge and swish until all shampoo is removed. Repeat if needed.

5

Apply wig conditioner (optional)

Apply from mid-length to ends only. Avoid the cap. Leave for 2–3 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

6

Blot dry and air dry on a stand

Gently press with a towel to remove excess water. Place on a wig stand and allow to air dry completely before styling or storing.

Styling Your Wig

Synthetic Wigs

  • Use wig-specific styling products only
  • No heat tools unless labeled heat-resistant
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush
  • Hairspray sparingly — buildup dulls fibers

Heat-Resistant Wigs

  • Use low–medium heat (under 180°C / 356°F)
  • Always test a small section first
  • Use a heat protectant spray
  • Never use on wet fibers

Storing Your Wig

Use a wig stand

Maintains cap shape and prevents crushing between shows.

Box it for travel

Place in a hairnet first, then in a box with tissue paper to hold the shape.

Avoid heat & light

Direct sunlight and heat sources fade color and damage synthetic fibers.

Label your wigs

Label boxes by character, color, or show for quick access backstage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗ Sleeping in your wig — causes severe tangling and matting at the nape that is nearly impossible to reverse.

✗ Using regular shampoo — strips the fibers and causes frizz. Always use wig-specific or sulfate-free products.

✗ Brushing root to tip — causes breakage and pulls fibers from the cap. Always start from the ends.

✗ Heat on standard synthetic wigs — melts the fibers permanently. Check the label before applying any heat.

✗ Storing wet — causes mildew in the cap and permanent frizz. Always dry completely before storing.

Shop This Guide

More from Performance Academy