The right wig brush: Why your synthetic hair needs different care than natural hair

At La Peruca, we witness customers' surprises every day when they discover that their beloved hairbrush has systematically damaged their expensive synthetic hair. Synthetic hair has a completely different structure than natural hair—it lacks a protective cuticle and cannot regenerate itself.

Conventional brushes with hard bristles or sharp edges can literally tear the fine synthetic hair fibers. This becomes especially problematic if you brush with too much force or are too aggressive on tangled areas. What might be relatively minor in natural hair can cause irreparable damage to synthetic hair.

Many of our customers report that they unknowingly used their usual hairbrush for years - until they noticed that their wigs were losing their natural shine much faster than expected.

A professional hairbrush for extensions and wigs is fundamentally different from conventional brushes. The bristles are softer, more flexible, and have rounded tips that glide smoothly over the synthetic hair fibers without damaging them.

Another critical issue: static charge. Conventional brushes create an electrostatic charge in synthetic hair, causing it to literally "puff up" and look unnatural. A professional wig brush is specially coated to minimize this problem.

The wig comb, on the other hand, is particularly suitable for gently detangling individual strands. Its wide, smooth teeth can loosen even stubborn knots without pulling out any hair. This is especially important with extensions, as extensions are only attached at the roots and can slip out if pulled too hard, as every stray strand of hair spoils the overall look.

A crucial technical difference: The right wig brush uses a special cushion system. The bristles are mounted on a flexible cushion that gives way when faced with resistance, preventing the teeth from tearing through knotted areas when applying harsh pressure. This flexibility protects both the synthetic hair fibers and the delicate wig cap (cap) underneath.

Another advantage is the antistatic coating. While conventional brushes create an electrical charge in synthetic hair, a wig brush neutralizes this charge and ensures natural hair fall. The result: Your wig retains its original shape and texture significantly longer.

Depending on the type of wig or extensions you have, you'll need different types of brushes. Curly synthetic hair requires different treatment than straight fibers. Very fine synthetic hair requires particularly soft bristles, while thicker fibers can tolerate medium bristle stiffness.

The biggest mistake we see at La Peruca: Brushing too aggressively in the wrong direction. While natural hair is usually brushed from the scalp to the ends, you should do the opposite with wigs and extensions. Always start at the ends and slowly work your way up.

Another critical point is brushing wet synthetic hair. Damp synthetic hair fibers are extremely delicate and can break or permanently lose their shape under mechanical stress. Always let your wig dry completely before brushing.

Many people also make the mistake of brushing too vigorously every day. Synthetic hair doesn't need this frequent care—in fact, the opposite. Excessive brushing can roughen the texture and reduce shine. With high-quality wigs, gently smoothing the surface strands is often sufficient. Brush high-quality wigs only 2-3 times a week, except during periods of intense movement or windy weather.

Particularly tricky: Circular brushing motions. What creates volume in natural hair leads to tangled, difficult-to-remove tangles in synthetic hair. Always use straight, continuous strokes and avoid jerky movements.

After over ten years of experience at La Peruca, we've developed a care routine that will significantly extend the life of your wig. The first step: Invest in a high-quality wig brush and a matching wig comb. This investment will pay off many times over with the extended lifespan of your hairpiece.

Never brush your wig directly on your head. Place it on a wig stand or hold it gently in your hand. This allows you to apply controlled pressure and avoid damage to the frame. With extensions, work systematically from strand to strand.

The right technique makes all the difference: Hold the top of the wig or extension firmly and brush from bottom to top with gentle, even pressure. Never force tangles; instead, work patiently, millimeter by millimeter.

A practical insider tip: Occasionally use an anti-static care spray. Lightly spray it onto the wig brush (never directly onto the synthetic hair) and distribute it evenly while brushing. This will give lasting shine and make it easier to care for.

A clean wig brush is crucial for optimal results. Remove all hairs from the brush after each use and clean it with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo every 5-7 uses. Allow it to dry completely before reusing.

Many of our customers initially wonder whether a special wig brush is really necessary. The answer usually becomes clear after a few weeks: Wigs cared for with professional tools retain their original quality significantly longer. A high-quality wig brush can extend the lifespan of a wig by months.

At La Peruca, we therefore generally recommend that our customers invest in proper care alongside their wig. After all, what good is the most beautiful hairpiece if it loses its shine prematurely due to improper care?

Have you already had experience with different wig brushes, or are you wondering which type of brush is best for your specific wig? Our experts will be happy to advise you personally at +49 30 8940 9449 or via email – because proper care starts with the right equipment.