Synthetic hair has been adopted as the option to natural hair due to factors such as low cost, easy care, and availability of style options. Whether it’s a synthetic wig, weave, or clip-ins, many users wonder: Can You Get Synthetic Hair Wet? The short answer to that question is yes, but it is not quite that simple. The general care for synthetic hair means wetting it correctly so that the future use will not harm the hair strands.
Given here are the questions of the importance of knowledge on the topic: Can synthetic hair get wet? How to take proper care of synthetic hair weave? How to make your synthetic hair long-lasting?
Can You Get Synthetic Hair Wet?
Well, synthetic hair can be washed but unlike natural hair it behaves in a different manner when wet. While human hair can easily absorb water, synthetic fibers on the other hand are made of plastic or acrylic like materials. For synthetic hair, when it is wet, it does not swell and therefore, it is required that it be dried properly. Nevertheless, washing with water and especially with salted water or with chlorinated water reduces the life expectancy of artificial hair since such water affects the fibers and causes entangling.
As much as there are circumstances whereby you have to wet synthetic hair weave for washing or to revive it, knowing the right procedure to apply will go a long way in preserving its appearance and texture.
Can Synthetic Hair Get Wet Without Damage?
Although you can wash synthetic hair DO NOT do it improperly as this can cause your hair to be damaged. Here are some considerations:
- Pool and Beach Caution: One can wear synthetic hair also during a beach or at the pool, but chlorine and saltwater are dangerous. Chlorine and salt cause degradation of synthetic fibers and they can make fabric feel like it is brittle and tangled or frizzy. In the case that your synthetic weave comes in contact with water in a pool or the beach, rinse it with clean and cold water and preferably, a mild shampoo.
- Avoid Hot Water: Such hair, if made of synthetic hair, will change its shape or texture whenever it comes into contact with hot water, especially heat-resistant synthetic hair that has been designed for use in styling. When washing synthetic weaves it’s advised that one uses water that is cooler or lukewarm to retain the fabrics texture.
- Drying Properly: Synthetic hair should never be styled by using a very high temperature and that is why once you wet the hair do not blow dry it. Man made fabrics can drip, shrink, or develop fluffy like color if exposed to high heat. Rather, let the hair dry within the natural environment or if pressed for time then use a cool blower to dry it.
How to Take Care of Synthetic Hair Weave
Synthetic fibers are delicate hence need to be dealt with a lot of care and shouldn’t be washed with wrong products. This will help you keep your synthetic hair looking as good as new for as long as possible thus requiring you to go for a replacement only when necessary. Below are some guidelines to help take care of synthetic hair weave.
- Detangle Before Washing
If you have synthetic hair it is advisable to first comb out your hair with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush before wetting it. To reduce the incidence of breakage, begin at the tips and progress upwards. Detangling assists to reduce cases of extra matting which could have resulted from washing. - Use the Right Products
Since synthetic hair weaves are made from man-made materials, it can only be treated with products meant for synthetic hair. Ordinary human hair shampoos and conditioners can build up or even harm the fibers which model their hair. Avoid using sulfates and paraben present in most of the shampoos and prefer buying synthetic hair care products. - Wash with Cool Water
When washing synthetic hair fibers, it is essential that one uses cool or lukewarm water. The texture of the weave can get distorted by hot water, while excessive rubbing and twisting can lead to tangling due to how they trap knots. Lightly massage in the shampoo and ensure not to rub or twist on the weave too much so as to avoid any form of tangling. - Condition Lightly
Although synthetic hair does not absorb moisture like natural hair does; a conditioner suitable for synthetic wigs may help keep them smooth and soft. Use a small amount after going through the shampooing process with great concentration on ends which should remain for a few minutes exactly before using cold water in rinsing it off. - Pat Dry and Air Dry
After rinsing, gently pat dry with a soft towel to remove any extra water from the wig. Synthetic hair should never be wrung out as this can lead to tangling; thus, one must lay flat their weave on a clean and dry towel or hang it up to ensure it dries well. Avoid using heat styling tools unless your synthetic strands are labeled heat-resistant. - Styling Tips
If you have a need to style your synthetic strands, styling products formulated just for Synthetic Hair like lightweight sprays or mousses are recommended. Products with a high percentage of alcohol should not be used on synthetic fibers because they can get dry out and become frizzy. When it comes to Heat-Resistant Synthetic Hair, when curling irons or flat irons are employed, low-heat settings should be applied.
Synthetic Hair Weave Care: Do’s and Don’ts
Washing synthetic hair weave is just a fraction of what caring entails. Following are some important dos and don’ts to keep your synthetic hair looking its best.
DO’s:
- Everyday, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush for loose hair all over.
- When no longer in use, store your weave properly, either on a wig stand or in a satin bag to prevent tangling.
- For washing, conditioning and styling use products that are friendly to synthetic hair.
DON’Ts:
- Avoid heat unless your weave is heat-resistant. Even then use the lowest possible setting.
- Do not wash too often. Synthetic weaves do not require frequent washing, once every 10-15 wears is usually enough.
- Never sleep in your synthetic weave without securing it and protecting it with a satin scarf or bonnet. Otherwise, mattress frictions can cause tangles and matting on your wig.
Final Thoughts
Summarizing, is it OK to wet synthetic hair? Definitely, although it needs some attention in order to prevent spoiling and extend its life span. Synthetic weaves are economical and stylish but need special treatment unlike that of natural hair. When you apply the methods as indicated above on how to care for your synthetic hair weave, then your synthetic hair will always be fresh, smooth, and fabulous.
If you want lovely synthetic locks without fears of tangles or breakage then use the right products, wash them lightly and be careful with heat or dampness. Bear these important ideas in mind if you want a low-maintenance high-style look!
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