Answered by Kim Cruz, Stylist & Colorist at The Salon at 10 Newbury
Whether you’re caught in an unexpected rain shower, heading out on a humid day, or simply wondering what happens if a little water gets on your wig, you’re not alone. It’s one of the questions we hear most often at The Salon at 10 Newbury.
The good news is that getting your human hair wig wet won’t ruin it.
Because it’s made from 100% human hair, it reacts much like your own natural hair would. Water itself isn’t the problem, it’s simply what you do afterward that helps preserve the wig’s style and longevity.
Water Won’t Damage Your Wig But It May Change the Style
The biggest change you’ll notice after your wig gets wet is that its style may change. If your wig has been professionally blow-dried, curled, or straightened, water can cause those styles to relax or disappear. Once the hair dries, you may need to restyle it to achieve the same look again. Fortunately, because your wig is made from human hair, you can safely use heat tools after it has dried, provided you use a heat protectant and moderate heat settings.
How to Care for Your Wig After It Gets Wet
If your wig gets wet, there’s no need to panic. A few simple steps will help keep it looking its best.
1. Gently Remove Excess Water
Use a soft towel to gently blot the hair. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wig, as this can create tangles, frizz, and unnecessary stress on the hair fibers.
2. Let It Air Dry
Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head and allow it to air dry naturally. This helps the cap maintain its shape while allowing the hair to dry evenly and fall naturally.
3. Detangle Carefully
Once the wig is dry, or slightly damp if you plan to blow-dry it, gently detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Always begin at the ends and gradually work your way toward the top to minimize tension and breakage.
4. Restyle If Needed
If your wig is made from 100% human hair, you can curl, straighten, or blow-dry it just as you would your own hair. If you’re unsure about styling techniques, our team is always happy to demonstrate safe methods or professionally style your wig during your visit.
Does the Type of Water Matter?
Yes, it does.
Rainwater. Getting caught in the rain is generally nothing to worry about. Simply allow your wig to air dry, then restyle it if necessary.
Chlorinated Pool Water. Chlorine can dry the hair and affect its softness over time. If your wig comes into contact with chlorinated water, rinse it with cool, clean water as soon as possible.
Salt Water. Salt water can also leave the hair feeling dry and more difficult to manage. Whenever possible, we recommend avoiding swimming in your wig. If it does get exposed to salt water, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward.
Kim’s Expert Tip
“Water itself isn’t what damages a human hair wig. The biggest change is usually the style. With gentle drying and proper care, your wig can be restyled and continue looking beautiful.” — Kim Cruz, Stylist & Colorist at The Salon at 10 Newbury
What to Remember
A little water isn’t something to stress about. Human hair wigs are designed to be worn and lived in, and occasional exposure to rain or moisture won’t harm them. Simply blot away excess water, let the wig air dry on a stand, and restyle it if needed. The only water we recommend avoiding whenever possible is chlorinated pool water and salt water, as both can dry out the hair over time. With proper care, your human hair wig will continue to look beautiful, feel soft, and provide years of comfortable wear.
About the Expert
Kim Cruz is a Stylist & Colorist at The Salon at 10 Newbury specializing in customized wigs, toppers, and hair replacement solutions for women experiencing hair loss. She works closely with clients to educate them on proper wig care, styling techniques, and maintenance so they can confidently enjoy their hair every day.
About The Salon at 10 Newbury
The Salon at 10 Newbury is Boston’s premier destination for women experiencing hair loss due to medical, hormonal, or genetic causes. Our specialists provide private consultations, advanced scalp evaluations using the Cesare Ragazzi Laboratories Tricotest, customized trichology treatments, and premium human hair wigs and toppers designed for comfort and natural appearance.
