Can You Wash a Lace Front Wig While on Your Head?

Lace front wigs have the potential to stay on your head for six weeks. That’s great and all, but does that mean you have to go six weeks without washing your lace front wig?

Definitely not.

In fact, I don’t recommend this whatsoever.

Your lace front wig needs to be weekly or bi-weekly. Any longer than that, you’ll be left with a greasy, lackluster wig with lots of buildup.

But can you wash a lace front wig while it’s on your head?

Can You Wash a Lace Front Wig While It’s On Your Head?

If you’re planning to wear your lace front wig for an extended period, one of your biggest concerns is likely whether or not you can wash it while it’s still on your head.

The good news is, yes, you can successfully wash a lace front wig while it’s on your head.

However, you need to treat the wig differently than your natural strands.

How to Wash a Lace Front Wig While It’s On Your Head

There is a specific way you need to wash your lace front wig while it’s on your head.

Luckily, it’s not overly complicated.

However, you don’t want to rush the process or skip steps. Otherwise, you could end up damaging the adhesive or tangling up your wig – both of which are two issues you don’t want to struggle with.

Follow these simple steps to wash your lace front wig while it’s on your head:

1. Double Check Your Adhesive

The last thing you want is for your lace front wig to fall off halfway through washing it. 

That said, it’s essential to double-check the adhesive before stepping into the shower.

Ensure that the adhesive – glue, tape, or other attachments – is firmly secured to your head.

If you notice any signs of looseness, secure the areas before proceeding.

2. De-Tangle the Wig

Have you ever tried to wash your hair with tangles?

It’s almost impossible – not to mention a huge hassle.

Therefore, I always recommend detangling your lace front wig before hopping into the shower.

Wide-tooth combs work best for detangling wigs, but you can use a brush if desired. 

Regardless of which tool you use, be gentle. Tugging on your hair will weaken the adhesive.

3. Turn on the Shower – Keep it Lukewarm

If you’re anything like me, then you love a piping hot shower. 

Yet, extremely hot water isn’t great for lace front wigs.

Although it might not be your favorite way to shower, you need to keep the water lukewarm

4. Start Washing!

Now it’s time for the fun part – washing your lace front wig while it’s on your head!

To start, tilt your head backward so you’re underneath the shower stream. 

Try to keep the water away from the hairline as much as possible, as water can weaken the adhesives.

Then, lather your lace front wig using wig-friendly shampoo. Be sure to be gentle. You don’t need to scrub like you would your natural strands. The goal is to get rid of any build-up. 

When you’re done, tilt your head back once more and rinse your lace front wig out. 

5. Apply Conditioner

After all the shampoo has been washed out, apply conditioner to the wig.

Wigs have a tendency to dry out. That’s because they’re not attached to a human scalp, so there are no “natural” oils to keep it conditioned.

Therefore, I always recommend using wig-friendly conditioners when washing a lace front wig.

Apply the conditioner, allow it to sit for about five minutes, then rinse.

6. Dry!

That’s it! You’re done washing your lace front wig while it’s on your head.

But you’re not done just yet.

You have to be careful when it comes to drying your lace front wig, too.

To dry, pat the lace front wig with a towel. It’s important to be gentle – no squeezing, rubbing, tightening, etc. 

I recommend using a leave-in conditioner when you’re done drying. It will ensure your lace front wig remains glossy, smooth, and soft. 

7. Re-Apply Adhesive/Attachment, if Necessary

Once your lace front wig is completely dry, double-check the adhesive/attachment.

Some people may experience some loosening while washing their lace front wig in the shower.

If that’s the case, simply re-apply your preferred adhesive or attachment. 

Then, style your wig and enjoy your day!

How Often Should You Wash a Lace Front Wig?

Ideally, you want to wash your lace front wig at least once a week or every other week.

However, pay attention to how your lace front wig looks and feels.

For example, if you spent the entire weekend dancing at clubs, hanging out at the beach, and doing other strenuous (but fun) activities, you might need to add an extra wash into your routine.

FAQs

You can definitely wash a lace front wig while it’s on your head, but you have to be pretty picky about how you do it. And now you know how! If you want to keep learning about this topic, here are some frequently asked questions to look at.

Is it better to wash a wig in hot or cold water?

It is much better to wash your wig in cold water. Hot water can be damaging to all types of wigs, whether they’re human hair or synthetic. Therefore, regardless if you’re washing in the sink or the shower, always opt for cold to lukewarm water – never hot.

What happens if you don’t wash your wig?

If you don’t wash your wig regularly, you’ll end up with a build-up of sweat, dirt, bacteria, etc. This will deteriorate the quality and longevity of your wig. Aside from that, your wig will appear lackluster and dirty and feel sticky, rough, and gross.

Can you sleep with a lace front wig on?

You can sleep with a lace front wig on – although it’s recommended to take it off before slumber, if possible. While sleeping, wrapping your hair up into a silk cap or bonnet is essential. You can also use silky or satin pillowcases. Detangle before hopping into bed, too.

You Can Wash a Lace Front Wig While It’s On Your Head!

If you’re using a long-term adhesive or attachment, you’ll be glad to know you can wash your lace front wig while it’s on your head. As long as you follow my technique, you can thoroughly wash your lace front wig without damaging anything!

Do you wash your lace front wig while it’s on your head? Do you have any tips or tricks you’d like to add? Share below!

About Michelle
My name is Michelle and I've been using hair wigs for about five years. I use them when I am heading out on a hot date or looking fierce for a special event. I created this site to help those new to the lace wig world.

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