A hair system can restore your confidence, elevate your style, and bring back a youthful charm. However, like any valuable possession, it requires proper care to stay in pristine condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance not only keep your toupee free of dirt, oil, and residue but also enhance its longevity and natural look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Hair System
Step 1: Remove the Hairpiece Tape
Begin by carefully lifting the edges of the tape from your hairpiece using your fingernails. To make the process faster and easier, do this under warm running water. If you’re using glue instead of tape or if no adhesive is required , you can skip this step. For delicate lace bases, dipping the tape in solvent and letting it sit for a few minutes before removal can prevent tears.
Step 2: Soak in Adhesive Solvent
Place the hair system in a plastic or stainless steel container with liquid solvent and soak for 5–15 minutes. Avoid over-soaking to prevent base damage, especially with oil-based solvents. Meanwhile, thoroughly clean your scalp with mild shampoo to remove buildup and dead skin, ensuring better adhesion later.
Step 3: Removing Adhesive Residue
After soaking, remove the toupee from the container. Use a plastic card to gently scrape adhesive residue from lace areas outward. For skin areas, gently remove the adhesive residue by rolling your thumb over the base. If needed, soak the system again briefly.
Step 4: Rinse the Hair System
While the base is still wet, apply dish soap to it and brush gently with a nail brush to remove remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly with high-pressure lukewarm water until all residue is gone. Repeat if necessary.
Step 5: Shampoo and Condition
Wash the hairpiece with a mild shampoo to balance pH levels. Apply a nourishing conditioner, and leave it on for 2–5 minutes before rinsing. Use a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the conditioner. Finally, place the hair system on a wig stand to air dry, away from direct sunlight.
How to Properly Maintain Men’s Toupees
1. Daily Maintenance:
- Each morning, brush out any hairspray or styling products before applying a leave-in conditioner spray.
- Avoid washing the toupee daily unless it feels dirty or greasy. Over washing can dry out the hair and reduce its lifespan.
2. Weekly Washing (1–2 times per week):
- Gently wash the toupee with a shampoo suited for hair systems.
- Use warm water and run fingers gently from the crown downward without scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply a conditioner. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse gently.
- Avoid rubbing the hair; Instead, pat it dry with a towel.
3. Deep Conditioning on Reinstallation Days
Toupees Removal:
- Detach the toupee gently using a spray adhesive remover
- Avoid pulling to prevent damage to the base material.
Adhesive Removal:
Remove any adhesive residue using a product like C22 adhesive remover. If needed, use a gentle scraping tool to assist with stubborn residue.
Clean the Toupee:
- Soak the toupee in a lukewarm shampoo bath to loosen dirt.
- After soaking, rinse the toupee thoroughly with water to remove shampoo and dirt.
Deep Moisturizing:
- Apply a hair mask to the toupee for deep hydration. Leave the mask on for about an hour to restore the hair’s softness and luster.
- Rinse the hair mask out thoroughly, then apply a conditioner and leave it on for 2–5 minutes before rinsing again.
Scalp Preparation:
- Trim any hair in the installation area with a trimmer, avoiding razors to prevent irritation or cuts.
- Clean your scalp thoroughly with C22 adhesive remover to eliminate any glue or tape residue. Then wipe your scalp with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils that could interfere with adhesion.
- Follow with a body wash or shampoo to ensure the scalp is clean and fresh.
- For added protection and better bonding, apply a scalp protector if desired.
Conclusion
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping men’s toupees in optimal condition. By following the outlined steps for cleaning, reinstallation, and regular upkeep, you can extend the lifespan of your hair system and ensure it always looks its best.