These days, wigs are more versatile than ever! A wig after all shouldn’t slow you down. It should enrich your life to give you one less thing to worry about as you navigate hair loss and thinning challenges.

With the right wig in tow, each wearer can enjoy a look they love every day. But, do these everyday activities include getting your wig wet or washing your wig just like your natural hair? Read on to discover the answers to these very questions…

Can wigs be washed?

Yes – in fact, it’s recommended! Wig washing matters for so many reasons, and will make wearing a wig extra comfortable, easier and more enjoyable.

Get the timing and frequency of washing right for your needs and wig type. Over-washing can significantly shorten the lifespan of your wig, and affect its appearance and condition in the short term too. As well as washing in a wig-friendly, sulfate-free shampoo and rinsing with tepid water, you should detangle your wig before, during and after washing for the best results.

Can I swim in my wig?

Yes, but with care and caution. While both human hair wigs and synthetic styles can get wet, wearing a wig for swimming and other sports that involve water can be problematic. The chlorine found in a swimming pool can have a negative impact on your wig. It’ll affect your wig in the same way it affects your natural hair. Here Healthandme shares the true impact of chlorine damage:

“Chlorine’s primary role in pools is to kill bacteria, but its effect on hair can be severe. By stripping away the natural oils (sebum) that protect and moisturize your hair, chlorine can lead to several issues:

• Dryness and Brittle Texture: Chlorine removes moisture, leaving hair dry and more susceptible to split ends.
• Colour Changes: Chlorine can alter the hue of both natural and colour-treated hair.
• Damage and Breakage: Frequent exposure weakens hair, leading to cracking and split ends.”

With wigs, chlorine damage goes further, loosening its very base to increase the risk of hair shedding and create tangles.

What about saltwater?

Saltwater is just as damaging to wig fibres. Excessive exposure can cause dryness, tangling and discolouration, with the remaining residue increasing scalp irritation. Don’t rule out that trip to the beach or spa just yet though. As with chlorine, protecting your wig is all about the right care – more on that next!

Why is wig care so important?

Whether swimming in saltwater, freshwater or chlorine, getting caught in the rain, or wetting your wig in an entirely different way, preserving the look, texture and longevity of the wig comes down to how you care for it.

While it is recommended that you wear a swimming cap instead of your wig to the pool or beach, rinsing your wig as soon as possible in cool, clean water to remove all the salt, chlorine or residue could just save your bacon. You should follow this with a thorough wash in a gentle, wig-friendly shampoo and conditioner, and fully air dry to finish. Human hair wigs in particular benefit from a deep condition after exposure to chlorine or saltwater.

Many wearers have dedicated wigs that they use only for swimming to protect their everyday styles from water damage.

For wig styles for every occasion, browse our collection of ladies’ wigs and men’s wigs today.