Investing in premium wigs or extensions is a commitment — not just of money, but also of trust and time. Whether you’re rocking a full lace wig, Remy extensions, or clip-ins for special occasions, proper aftercare is what keeps them looking salon-fresh and natural.
And here's the truth: your natural hair oils don’t reach wigs or extensions. That means they don’t get the same love your real hair does — unless you give it to them intentionally. The difference between limp, tangled hair and silky, flowing strands often comes down to the right aftercare products.
In this blog, we're diving deep into:
Why aftercare matters
The best products by category (shampoo, conditioner, etc.)
Tips for human hair vs synthetic
Tools that help maintain texture and shine
Let’s make sure your gorgeous hair stays that way — week after week. ✨
Wigs and extensions, especially human hair ones, don’t regenerate moisture or repair damage like your natural scalp hair does. Once damaged, it's hard (and expensive) to reverse.
The right products:
Preserve softness and shine
Prevent tangling and matting
Protect color and curl pattern
Extend the lifespan of your investment
The wrong products:
Strip hair of essential oils
Cause dryness, frizz, and breakage
Damage lace or adhesive bonds
Shorten your wig/extension life dramatically
So now the big question — which products are worth your time (and money)?
Whether synthetic or human hair, you want sulfate-free, gentle cleansers that remove buildup without stripping moisture.
1. Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
Great for restoring moisture and structure
Strengthens hair bonds
Ideal for colored extensions
2. Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
Sulfate-free & vegan
Adds moisture without heaviness
Color-safe and ideal for dry textures
3. Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Budget-friendly and very gentle
Great detangling action
Suitable for curly and coily textures
1. Brandywine Non-Static Wig Shampoo
Made specifically for synthetic fibers
Removes product buildup
Prevents frizz and static cling
2. Jon Renau Fiber Love Shampoo
Special formula for synthetic wigs
Won’t dry or damage delicate strands
Keeps synthetic fibers fresh and soft
📝 Tip: Always use lukewarm or cool water and avoid rubbing synthetic fibers vigorously!
Hydration is key — especially if your extensions or wig are color-treated or heat-styled.
1. Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner
Deep hydration and reparative technology
Safe for daily or weekly use
Great for chemically processed hair
2. Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner
Infused with argan oil and keratin
Great slip for detangling
Softens coarse textures
3. Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner
Great multi-use product
Lightweight yet hydrating
Works as a detangler, heat protectant, and softener
1. Awesome Synthetic Wig Leave-In Conditioner
Restores softness after wash
Anti-static formula
Keeps synthetic fibers light and manageable
2. HairUWear Restore Conditioner
Specifically designed for fiber wigs
Helps extend the life of synthetic pieces
Great post-wash companion
📝 Tip: Don’t apply conditioners too close to the wefts, roots, or base — it can loosen glue or stitching over time.
These are optional, but they make a big difference in polish and longevity.
1. Moroccanoil Treatment Oil
Adds instant shine and softness
Just a pump or two goes a long way
Great for ends and flyaways
2. Biosilk Silk Therapy
Lightweight and smoothing
Good for straight or wavy textures
Non-greasy with lovely scent
3. OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil
Affordable and nourishing
Works great on damp or dry strands
Seals cuticles to reduce frizz
📝 Tip: Never use natural oils (like coconut or olive oil) on synthetic wigs — they can damage the fiber.
If you’re heat styling your human hair wigs or extensions, heat protectant is non-negotiable.
Top Picks:
TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray (budget fave)
CHI 44 Iron Guard (iconic and effective)
Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray (cuts drying time)
📝 Pro Tip: Use heat on low to medium settings for longevity — even if the hair is human.
Sometimes, it’s not just what you put on the hair — but also how you handle it.
Wet Brush or Tangle Teezer — perfect for gentle detangling
Wide-Tooth Comb — ideal for curly textures
Loop Brush — specially made for wigs and won’t pull hair out
Store wigs on satin-lined mannequin heads
Sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce friction (if wearing extensions)
Allow proper drying and styling without creasing
Helps maintain shape over time
Here’s a simple care routine you can follow:
Frequency | Task | Product Suggestions |
---|---|---|
After 5–7 wears | Wash & condition | Olaplex, Pureology, Brandywine |
Weekly | Detangle and add leave-in | Mizani, Moroccanoil |
Monthly | Deep treatment or mask | Olaplex No. 3 or Kenra Masque |
Daily | Light mist, brush & style | Biosilk, synthetic leave-ins |
Feature | Human Hair | Synthetic Hair |
---|---|---|
Products | Can use salon-grade shampoos, oils | Use only synthetic-specific products |
Heat | Yes, with protectant | Usually no (unless heat-safe labeled) |
Lifespan | 6–12 months+ (with care) | 3–6 months |
Styling | Versatile | Pre-set styles only |
Sulfates & parabens – strip hair and weaken fibers
Heavy oils on lace fronts – cause buildup and lift edges
Overwashing – dries out both human and synthetic hair
High-heat tools without protection – major damage risk
Your extensions or wigs are an investment in your confidence. And just like designer shoes need the right polish, or luxury skincare needs the right routine — your hair pieces deserve premium care too.
When you use the right products consistently, you’ll enjoy:
Longer wig life
Softer, shinier strands
Fewer tangles and touch-ups
More natural movement and look
So treat your hair — and yourself — to the best. You’ve earned it.