If you’ve ever wondered why some wigs look amazing for months while others lose their shape quickly, (or go totally Frizzageddon on you) you’re not alone.
The truth is - wig care and wig quality makes all the difference.
Whether you’re new to wigs or looking to improve how you maintain them, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know - from basic wig maintenance to advanced styling techniques like resetting and reshaping synthetic wigs.
Some of this advice will also be useful for those who have implanted synthetic hair (looking at all the Starpery and Top Cy customers out there who have taken advantage of the free implanted hair! 😀)
Why Wig Care Matters
Wigs can be:
- A flexible styling option
- A way to experiment with colour and look
- Great for beginners who don't know how to style implanted hair
But without proper care, even a high-quality wig can:
- Lose its shape
- Become frizzy
- Tangle easily
- Wear out faster than expected
👉 The better you care for your wig, the longer it lasts - and the better it looks.
Plus the more money you save! 🤑
Not All Wigs Are the Same
Before getting into wig maintenance tips, it’s important to understand that not all wigs are created equal.
Wigs can vary in:
- Fibre quality (synthetic vs higher-grade fibres)
- Density and thickness
- Cap construction
- Heat resistance
This affects:
- How the wig behaves over time
- How easily it can be styled
- How well it holds its shape (thin threads = frizz!)
👉 Two wigs may look identical, but perform very differently.
Here is a little tidbit which is a bit of a mind blower: to make implanted synthetic hair they use a minimum of THREE wigs. So imagine the removable wig on your doll, and then add another two, that's how densely they implant it. That density gives it a more premium feel and creates a longer lasting product - even if you lose a few hairs, you've still got many times more than the typical wig. No wonder it's much more expensive!
Wigs we recommend:
Lushdoll - these guys use only premium wigs with high density fibres, just take a look at some examples of Lushdoll wigs:
The higher density and thickness means the wigs last longer, look better longer, and dont frizz as much.
If you have a factory-provided wig from a TPE doll, your wig may be of a fairly average construction and not perform all that well. Every Lushdoll comes with a more premium wig, and the wigs can be purchased separately on our wig page
We also recommend:
- Real Lady (and the Irontech wigs with the extra charge - these are more premium)
- Fanreal
- Sino
- Gynoid
You'll notice these are mostly the higher priced ones, and yes, sadly with a lot of things in this life - the more you pay the better the quality. The trade off when buying cheaper wigs is that they are more fiddly, and dont look as good for as long.
Lace wigs can also be found online and are often quite a step up in quality.
What About Lace Wigs?
Lace wigs (including lace front styles) are popular for a reason - they can create a more natural-looking hairline and overall appearance.
We have always gotten great interest on Rosie's wig, most people (including us!) thought it was implanted:
But after investigating with WM, they informed us that the one in the original photos is a lace wig and sadly not available for purchase anymore.
As you can see, though, the lace wig gives a much nicer appearance!
What Is a Lace Wig?
Despite the name, lace wigs aren’t made from lace fibres.
The “lace” refers to a thin, breathable mesh material used at the base of the wig - usually along the hairline. Each hair is hand-tied into this lace, helping create a more natural-looking hairline and a realistic appearance when worn.
The fibres themselves are the same as other synthetic or fibre-based wigs - it’s just the base construction that’s different.
But they do require a bit of extra care.
Key differences to keep in mind:
The lace is delicate
- Avoid aggressive brushing near the hairline
- Don’t pull or stretch the lace
- Always handle gently when styling
Be careful when washing
- Don’t scrub the lace area
- Let water flow through it instead
- Pat dry rather than rubbing
Product use matters even more
- Keep products light
- Avoid buildup near the lace
- Always apply products off the doll
The main takeaway
The hair fibres behave similarly to other synthetic wigs - but the lace itself is the fragile part.
Treat it gently, and it will hold up well over time.
Can You Reset a Wig?
Yes - in many cases, you can reset a wig and restore it closer to its original style.
If your wig becomes:
- Frizzy
- Flat
- Misshapen
- “Tired” looking
It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s ruined.
With the right techniques, you can often:
- Refresh the fibres
- Reduce frizz
- Restore shape
- Improve overall appearance
How to Reshape a Synthetic Wig (Step-by-Step)
One of the most effective wig styling techniques is using heat control methods like steam or hot water.
Step 1: Detangle the Wig
- Use a wide-tooth comb
- Start from the ends and work upward
- Be gentle to avoid damaging fibres
Step 2: Apply Controlled Heat
You can use:
- Steam
- Hot (not boiling) water
👉 This helps relax synthetic fibres without damaging them.
Step 3: Shape the Wig
While the fibres are warm:
- Gently style or reshape the wig
- Encourage curls, waves, or direction
Step 4: Let It Set
- Allow the wig to cool completely in its new shape
- This helps “lock in” the style
Step 5: Finish with Light Grooming
- Light brushing (if needed)
- Adjust and refine the final look
Important Wig Care Rules
To keep your wig in the best condition, follow these essential tips:
Avoid High Heat
Synthetic wigs are not designed for:
- Curling irons
- Straighteners
- High-temperature tools
👉 Too much heat can permanently damage the fibres.
Don’t Over-Brush
Excessive brushing can:
- Cause frizz
- Reduce lifespan
Instead:
- Use a wide-tooth comb
- Work gently from ends to roots
Store Your Wig Properly
Improper storage can ruin the shape. It is tempting to yeet the spare into the back of a drawer, but...
Best options:
- Wig stand
- Original packaging
- Clean, dry storage space
Wash Your Wig Correctly
Washing too often or too aggressively can damage fibres.
When washing:
- Use cool or lukewarm water
- Use gentle products
- Avoid scrubbing
Wig Styling Tips: How to Get Different Looks
One of the biggest advantages of wigs is versatility.
You can:
- Change styles
- Adjust shape
- Create completely different looks
Not just by exchanging for a different wig, but by messing around with the one you have!
Example: Restyling a Wig
In the past this was one of the more popularly requested wigs. WM used it over and over in shoots. It is an absolute beauty, however they could never reproduce it.
We got in touch with Cubik, WM's photographer, to ask what the deal was and he explained. This wig actually started life as this one:
Incredible right? The original with tight curls and short looking hair, has been totally transformed into a longer wig with a soft distressed look that says "I just stepped out of the surf"
What changed?
- Steam
- Light brushing
- Careful reshaping
👉 This shows how much a wig can transform with the right technique.
If you have a curly wig that's starting to go - don't throw it! - just a change of mindset and a bit of styling can give you a totally different look!
Advanced Wig Care: Training and Reshaping
Once you understand the basics, you can start to train your wig.
This means:
- Encouraging fibres into a desired shape over time
- Building consistency in style
- Improving long-term appearance
With regular care and shaping, your wig can:
- Hold styles better
- Look more natural
- Last significantly longer
Common Wig Problems (and How to Fix Them) + Some Products That Can Help!
Frizzy Wig
Cause:
- Dry fibres
- Friction or brushing
Fix:
- Steam or hot water reset
- Light smoothing
Tangled Wig
Cause:
- Poor storage
- Lack of maintenance
Fix:
- Gentle detangling
- Proper storage going forward
Wig Losing Shape
Cause:
- Wear and movement
Fix:
- Re-shaping using heat control methods
- Restyling and resetting
Should You Use Products on Your Wig?
Short answer: yes - but only the right ones, and only in moderation.
Synthetic wigs aren’t like real hair. They don’t absorb oils, and they don’t respond well to heavy products.
In fact, using the wrong thing can make them:
- Greasy
- Clumpy
- More prone to tangling
…and in some cases, transfer residue onto the doll itself. This is not ideal as some oils do not interact well with TPE and silicone products.
👉 Always remove the wig before applying any product.
What Actually Helps (And What Doesn’t)
If you’re going to use products, keep it simple.
✔️ What can help
1. Synthetic Wig Shampoo (Occasional Use)
Designed specifically for synthetic fibres.
Use it to:
- Clean buildup
- Refresh the wig
- Maintain overall condition
👉 You don’t need to wash often - only when the wig actually needs it.
2. Lightweight Conditioning or Detangling Spray (For Synthetic Hair!)
This is the most useful day-to-day product.
Helps with:
- Reducing frizz
- Making brushing easier
- Improving manageability
👉 Use a light mist only - more is not better.
❌ What to avoid
Oils of any kind
- Synthetic fibres don’t absorb them
- They sit on the surface and attract dust
- Can transfer onto the doll
Regular hair shampoo or conditioner
- Made for human hair, not synthetic fibres
- Can damage or dry out the wig
Heavy styling products (gel, wax, etc.)
- Cause buildup
- Hard to remove
- Can ruin the texture over time
The Real Secret: Technique Over Products
Here’s what most people don’t realise:
👉 Products play a small role. Technique does the heavy lifting.
Things like:
- Gentle detangling
- Proper storage
- Steam or heat-controlled reshaping
…will do far more for your wig than loading it up with products.
Simple Rule to Follow
If you’re ever unsure:
👉 Use less product, not more
👉 Keep everything light and controlled
👉 Always apply off the doll
Do that, and your wig will last longer, look better, and be much easier to manage over time.
How Long Should a Wig Last?
Wig lifespan depends on:
- Quality
- Frequency of use
- Care routine
With proper maintenance:
👉 A wig can last significantly longer than expected.
Without care:
👉 It can degrade quickly, even if it started as a high-quality piece.
Final Thoughts: Get More Out of Your Wig
With the right approach:
- You can reset them
- Restyle them
- Extend their lifespan
- And completely change their look
👉 Most people don’t realise how much control they actually have over their wig.
If you ever need tips or advice - just pop open that chat and give us a whistle!
If you missed it, here's our wig page with all our wig options