Maintaining your toupee isn’t just about making it last longer; it’s also about keeping its natural look. At first glance, cleaning may seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it’s a simple task anyone can master. Follow these easy steps to ensure your hairpiece stays fresh, vibrant, and in great condition.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you dive into cleaning, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need. You’ll require:
Adhesive remover
Paper towels or napkins
A comb
Shampoo (ideally designed for toupees)
Leave-in conditioner (optional)
Isopropyl alcohol (for the final cleaning touch)
2. Remove the Adhesive
Start by carefully removing the toupee from your scalp. Spray adhesive remover on both the unit and your scalp. Gently rub to loosen any adhesive residue. Once the adhesive is loosened, use a paper towel to wipe away the excess remover.
Be cautious during this process to avoid tearing the toupee or damaging the hair.
3. Clean the Residue
Once the adhesive is removed, you might notice some leftover residue on the base of the toupee. To clean this, take a fresh paper towel and gently rub over the affected areas. The towel should absorb most of the sticky residue. If necessary, fold the towel to reveal a clean section and continue the process until the base is completely free of residue.
4. Deeply Clean the Base
With the adhesive out of the way, it’s time for a deeper clean. Spray the unit with adhesive remover again to ensure that no residue remains. Afterward, apply a small amount of shampoo directly to the base, paying special attention to areas with any lingering adhesive.
Using a comb, gently comb through the hair while the shampoo is still applied. The shampoo will help loosen any remaining glue and lubricate the strands for an easier clean.
5. Rinse and Dry the Hair
Once the adhesive is thoroughly removed, rinse the toupee with warm water. Avoid using hot water, as extreme temperatures can damage the hair fibers. After rinsing, let the toupee air dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not use a blow dryer or expose the hair to direct sunlight, as these can cause the hair to become brittle.
6. Apply Leave-in Conditioner (Optional)
For extra softness and smoothness, you can apply a leave-in conditioner after washing. This will help maintain the hair’s shine and reduce frizz. Be sure to apply it evenly, but avoid over-saturating the toupee.
7. Final Cleaning Touch
After the toupee has dried, do a final check for any greasy or sticky spots. If you find any residue, use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a clean paper towel to wipe down the base. This ensures the surface is completely clean and ready for the next use.
8. Reapply the Toupee
Once the toupee is clean and completely dry, it’s time to reattach it. Apply fresh adhesive tape as usual. Be careful not to leave any excess residue that could affect adhesion. Always make sure the toupee is thoroughly clean before reapplying adhesives, as leftover residue can cause the tape to lose its grip.
Conclusion
Properly cleaning your toupee is crucial for preserving both its appearance and lifespan. By carefully following these simple steps—removing the adhesive, wiping away any residue, shampooing the base, and allowing it to dry properly—you can ensure your hairpiece remains in excellent condition.