How To Untangle A Wig: 10 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Personal Care and Style
• Hair Care
• Wigs

How to Detangle Your Wig at Home in a Few Easy Steps Download Article A guide for synthetic and human hair wig detangling Co-authored by Raven Minyard, BA Reviewed by Jasmin Todd

Last Updated: July 15, 2024 Approved

Download Article

• Synthetic Wigs
|
• Human Hair Wigs
|
• Preventing Tangles
|
• Video
|
• Q&A
|
• Tips
|
• Things You'll Need

|Show more |Show less X

This article was reviewed by Jasmin Todd and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Jasmin Todd is a Master Stylist and the Owner of Austin Curls in Austin, TX. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in cutting and styling naturally curly hair. Jasmin trained at the world-famous Ouidad salon and is Ouidad certified. In 2022, Mane Addicts named Austin Curls as one of the Top U.S. Salons for Curly Hair. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 262,235 times.

Whether you cosplay on the weekends or wear a wig in your daily life, you are bound to encounter some tangles. Don’t throw that tangled wig in the trash! With a few inexpensive products (and a bit of patience) you can bring your tangled wig back to life. In this article, we’ll explain step-by-step how to untangle both synthetic and human hair wigs, plus provide tips on how to avoid tangling in the first place.

Things You Should Know

• To untangle a wig, finger comb large knots and use a wide tooth comb to gently remove tangles.
• Apply a pre-made wig detangling spray or create your own with 3 parts water and 1 part wig-safe conditioner.
• Separate the hair into smaller sections and work from the ends up to the roots to make detangling easier.

Steps

Section 1 of 3:

How to Untangle a Synthetic Wig

Download Article

1. 1 Place the wig on a wig stand. Using a wig stand or styling head gives you a stable area to work on, which makes the detangling process much easier. If your wig is particularly long, try setting the wig head on a camera tripod or another tall object to give you more room to work.[1]
2. 2 Divide the hair into sections. Use hair clips to hold the sections in place. Separating the wig helps you focus on knotted areas without creating more tangles in the process. The number of sections you need depends on the length and thickness of the wig.[2] Advertisement
3. 3 Spray the wig with a synthetic wig detangler. Make sure your detangler is specifically designed for synthetic wigs and apply it generously to each section. Pay special attention to any areas that are extremely knotted.[3]
   • If you don’t have a wig detangler, make one by filling a spray bottle with 3 parts water and 1 part wig-safe conditioner. You can also swap the conditioner for fabric softener, but only for synthetic wigs.
4. 4 Finger comb larger knots. Loosening large knots with your fingers helps remove the most obvious tangles without adding stress to the wig’s synthetic fibers.[4]
5. 5 Detangle with a wide-toothed comb. Using a comb designed for synthetic wigs, start combing your wig from the bottom and work your way to the roots. Hold the hair firmly with one hand (just above where you are combing) as you comb with the other hand. If the hair is quite tangled, you may need to do this in small sections.[5]
   • Depending on the length of your wig, this process can take a long time (up to an hour).
   • Be careful not to yank on the wig, as this only makes tangles worse. Instead, carefully comb out each tangle.
6. 6 Shampoo and condition your wig. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and a capful of synthetic wig shampoo. Submerge the wig and let it sit for a few minutes, then swirl it around to remove the shampoo. Remove the wig and refill the sink with clean, cool water, then swirl the wig again until all the shampoo is gone. Repeat the process with the conditioner.[6]
   • When washing a synthetic wig, be sure not to scrub the wig, as that will create more tangles.
   • In general, soak your wig in conditioner for about 10 minutes to keep the synthetic hair soft. If your wig is particularly damaged, soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour and up to a full night.
7. 7 Dry your wig with a towel. Gently blot your wig with a clean, dry towel. Don’t wring or twist the wig, as this could lead to more tangles.[7]
8. 8 Style your wig. Use brush rollers or your fingers to style the wig however you like. Sometimes, you can shake synthetic wigs to style them, as well.[8]
   • Avoid using products like hairspray and heat protectants when styling a synthetic wig. These products can make the wig deteriorate faster.
   • Use a steamer to style synthetic wigs. This way, you can curl or straighten the hair without burning or melting the fibers.
Advertisement

Section 2 of 3:

How to Untangle a Human Hair Wig

Download Article

1. 1 Place your wig on a styling head. If possible, mount the wig head onto a camera tripod (or another tall object) to make it easy for you to work on it. This is especially helpful if the wig you are combing is very long.[9]
   • If you don’t have a wig head (or a tripod) simply lay your wig on a table or counter.
2. 2 Clip the hair into manageable sections. This helps relieve tension while brushing and makes it easier to focus on particularly tangled areas. The number of sections you use depends on the length and density of the wig.
3. 3 Comb larger knots with your fingers. If your wig has large, noticeable tangles, gently separate them using your fingers.[10]
4. 4 Spray with a water and conditioner mixture. Fill a spray bottle with 3 parts water, 1 part wig-safe conditioner. Shake well, then apply liberally until the wig is saturated.[11]
   • You may also choose to use a leave-in conditioner, or a product designed specifically for untangling wigs. These products do not need to be diluted in water.
   • If the conditioner begins to separate from the water, give the bottle another shake.
5. 5 Comb your wig with a wide-toothed comb. Starting from the tips, gently comb your wig and work your way up to the roots. Firmly hold the hair in one hand (just above where you’re combing) and comb with the other. You may need to work in small sections if the wig is particularly tangled.[12]
   • Apply more of the conditioner mixture as needed.
   • Depending on how long or tangled your wig is, this process can take up to an hour.
   • Avoid tugging and yanking on the wig, as this makes the tangles worse. Instead, gently comb out each tangle.
   • If your wig has bangs, untangle them with a fine-tooth comb.
6. 6 Shampoo and condition your wig. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and squeeze in a bit of human hair wig shampoo. Soak and swirl your wig in the water, rubbing the shampoo in with your fingers. Rinse with cool water, with the water running in the same direction as the hair to avoid tangles. Repeat the same process with a wig-safe conditioner.[13]
   • When conditioning, don’t apply product too close to the base, as this could weaken the knots holding the wig together.
   • When washing a human hair wig, try turning the wig inside out so the shampoo can reach the wig cap, which is where most of the dirt, oils, and sweat collect.
7. 7 Dry your wig with a soft towel. Absorb the water by blotting the hair with a towel or soft T-shirt. Avoid rubbing or wringing the wig, as this could create more tangles. Once the wig is no longer dripping wet, let it air dry on your wig stand or use a hairdryer on a low setting.[14]
   • Be careful if you use a hairdryer, as it’s very easy to damage the wig this way. For the best results, allow it to air dry out of direct sunlight.
   • As your wig air dries, gently comb through it every 30 minutes. In 2-3 hours, your wig should be completely dry.
8. 8 Style your wig. After your wig is dry, style it however you prefer using your fingers or a curling iron set on low. Unlike synthetic wigs, you can use a bit of heat on human hair wigs. Just be careful not to overdo it and use a heat protectant.[15]
   • To restore a frizzy human hair wig, try flat ironing it to smooth it out until you have time to do a longer, more thorough treatment.
Advertisement

Section 3 of 3:

How to Prevent Wigs from Tangling

Download Article

1. 1 Don’t sleep in your wig. If you sleep in your wig, it will rub against your pillows and blankets, creating tangles. Avoid this by taking your wig off before bed.[16]
   • If you choose to sleep in your wig, use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
2. 2 Store your wig properly. If possible, put your wig back in its original packaging when you’re not wearing it, or keep it on a wig stand. This prevents your wig from rubbing against things and creating tangles.[17]
   • If you don’t have your wig’s original packaging, try storing it in a netted wig cap.
3. 3 Use gentle products for your wig. Opt for natural products without harsh chemicals like sulfates, which can dry your wig out and cause it to tangle more easily. Use a moisturizing conditioner to hydrate your wig.[18]
   • Unlike natural hair, which is moisturized by the sebum produced by your scalp, wigs don’t self-moisturize, which leads to them drying out and tangling easily.
4. 4 Avoid excessive heat styling. Heat harms the fibers of synthetic wigs and causes human hair wigs to tangle more easily. Be cautious and use heat protectant sprays when styling.[19]
5. 5 Wash your wig after about 21 uses. While washing your wig is important for maintenance, washing it too frequently can dry it out and cause tangles. In general, wash your wig after you wear it 21 times. If you don’t wear your wig daily, you can go longer than a month between washes.[20]
6. 6 Buy a high-quality human hair wig. Human hair wigs are more expensive than synthetic wigs, but they’re less prone to tangling and last longer.[21] If you can, opt for a wig with the cuticles facing the same direction.
   • If the hair cuticles don’t face the same direction, they’ll snag when strands touch each other.
   • The texture of your wig matters, too. The curlier your wig is, the more likely it is to tangle. Go with a straight wig for easier maintenance.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question What do I do to untangle a 20-inch human hair lace wig that is tangled into one hard ball that I cannot get to the ends? Community Answer Try wetting it, then applying conditioner. Apply the conditioner all over the ball of hair. Then, try to break up the ball with your hands. Once you get it slightly looser, apply more conditioner and brush. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 36
• Question What if I don't have a spray bottle? Community Answer You can get your brush wet or just have a bowl of water to dip your hand in. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 41
• Question What can I do when I have followed all the directions and my silver wig is now a dingy looking off grey? Community Answer I would recommend using an ink and water mixture to dye it to a better color. You won't be able to lighten it if it's synthetic, but you can make it a new color. Also, if you want your synthetic wig to look and feel more realistic, add a little bit of fabric softener to the conditioning mixture. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 17

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

• To make sure your wig lasts as long as possible, always follow the instructions provided by your manufacturer. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid using too many styling products, as this can lead to your wig looking stiff and unnatural. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Things You’ll Need

• Wide-tooth comb or wig comb
• Fine-tooth comb (if your wig has bangs)
• Wig head
• Spray bottle
• Wig detangling spray
• Wig-safe shampoo
• Wig-safe conditioner
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Sink or basin
• Towel
• Hair clips

Video

You Might Also Like

How toWash a Human Hair Wig How toKeep Synthetic Hair Soft How toTake Care of Synthetic Hair Extensions How toRestore a Synthetic Wig 5 Stylist-Approved Ways to Straighten a Synthetic Wig How to Wash a Synthetic Wig in 9 Easy Steps How toRestore Human Hair Wigs How toStyle Wigs Fun & Cute Ways to Style a Synthetic Wig How toDetangle African Hair How toFix Doll Hair How toMake a Wig Look Real How toGet Rid of Tangles in Your Hair How toUntangle Hair Advertisement

References

1. ↑ https://tbforeverhair.com/health-and-maintenance/how-to-detangle-a-synthetic-wig/
2. ↑ https://tbforeverhair.com/health-and-maintenance/how-to-detangle-a-synthetic-wig/
3. ↑ https://www.med.upenn.edu/lung2022/assets/user-content/documents/abcsofwigselectionandcare.pdf
4. ↑ https://tbforeverhair.com/health-and-maintenance/how-to-detangle-a-synthetic-wig/
5. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/wigs/synthetic
6. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
7. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
8. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
9. ↑ https://tymelesshairwigs.com/detangling-human-hair-wigs/

More References (12)

10. ↑ https://www.uniwigs.com/blog/how-to-revive-a-tangled-or-frizzy-human-hair-wig.html
11. ↑ https://www.med.upenn.edu/lung2022/assets/user-content/documents/abcsofwigselectionandcare.pdf
12. ↑ https://www.med.upenn.edu/lung2022/assets/user-content/documents/abcsofwigselectionandcare.pdf
13. ↑ https://livingwellcrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Wig-Care-Instructions.pdf
14. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
15. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
16. ↑ https://tymelesshairwigs.com/detangling-human-hair-wigs/
17. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/wigs
18. ↑ https://tymelesshairwigs.com/detangling-human-hair-wigs/
19. ↑ https://tymelesshairwigs.com/detangling-human-hair-wigs/
20. ↑ https://www.med.upenn.edu/lung2022/assets/user-content/documents/abcsofwigselectionandcare.pdf
21. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care

About This Article

Reviewed by: Jasmin Todd Master Hair Stylist This article was reviewed by Jasmin Todd and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Jasmin Todd is a Master Stylist and the Owner of Austin Curls in Austin, TX. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in cutting and styling naturally curly hair. Jasmin trained at the world-famous Ouidad salon and is Ouidad certified. In 2022, Mane Addicts named Austin Curls as one of the Top U.S. Salons for Curly Hair. This article has been viewed 262,235 times. 3 votes - 67% Co-authors: 12 Updated: July 15, 2024 Views: 262,235 Categories: Wigs Article SummaryX

To untangle a wig, first, soak your wig in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes before wringing it out and placing it on a wig stand. While your wig is still damp, fill a spray bottle with 3 parts water to 1 part conditioner and spray the tips of your wig until the bottom 3 to 5 inches are fully saturated. Using a wig comb, untangle the tips in small sections. When the bottom is tangle-free, keep spraying and combing sections, slowly making your way to the top of the wig. To dry your wig, let it sit for 2 to 3 hours, combing every 30 minutes to help it keep its shape. For more tips, like how to dry your wig with a blow dryer, read on. Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Italian Spanish German French Portuguese Russian Indonesian Dutch Arabic Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 262,235 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Sritha S.

  Nov 16, 2023

  "It worked beautifully. Thank you so much! I dont have a wig head and used a table top. the wig was really badly..." more

More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Jasmin Todd Master Hair Stylist 3 votes - 67% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 12 Updated: July 15, 2024 Views: 262,235

Sritha S.

Nov 16, 2023

"It worked beautifully. Thank you so much! I dont have a wig head and used a table top. the wig was really badly..." more

Noman Niaz

Jan 16, 2018

"If the conditioner begins to separate from the water, give the bottle a shake."

Luke Young

Oct 29, 2022

"It helped me learn how to get out a knot from a wig." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizHair Curl Type QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How toWash a Human Hair WigHow toKeep Synthetic Hair SoftHow toTake Care of Synthetic Hair ExtensionsHow toRestore a Synthetic Wig

Featured Articles

What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreHow toMake Friends

Trending Articles

Do I Have Brainrot QuizWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I Quiz151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to AskSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouDo You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?

Featured Articles

The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

Featured Articles

7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in MinutesHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?How to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow toWhistle with Two Fingers

Watch Articles

How toGrow Out Your BangsHow toDress PunkHow toEnd a Long Distance RelationshipHow toDo E Girl EyelinerHow toRespond to the Fire EmojiHow to Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look Small

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Am I More Hannah Montana or Miley Stewart?The Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign Beautiful24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

Do I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat Type of Hands Do I Have QuizTake QuizWhat Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizAm I Balding QuizTake QuizWhat Color Should I Dye My Hair QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Personal Care and Style
• Hair Care
• Wigs

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --656