Easy DIY Homemade Wig Glue Removal Methods

So, you\’ve been rocking that fabulous wig for a while now, but the time has come to take the plunge and remove it. Cue the panic! The thought of dealing with sticky, stubborn wig glue can be quite daunting, but fear not. This article is here to rescue you with some easy DIY homemade wig glue removal methods. We understand the frustration that comes with dealing with residue that just won\’t budge, so we\’ve compiled a list of tried and tested remedies to make your life a whole lot easier. Say goodbye to wig glue nightmares and hello to a seamless wig removal process!

Why you need to remove wig glue

The importance of removing wig glue

Wig glue serves as an essential tool for securing your wig in place and achieving a natural look. However, it is crucial to remove the glue properly after each use to maintain the quality and longevity of your wig. Failing to remove wig glue can lead to a buildup of residue, making it challenging to apply the wig in the future. Additionally, leaving glue on your wig for an extended period can cause damage to the wig cap, the hair strands, and even your natural hair.

Negative effects of leaving glue on a wig for too long

Leaving wig glue on your wig for an extended period can have several negative effects. Firstly, it can result in an accumulation of residue, making the wig difficult to style and decreasing its overall lifespan. The residue can also attract dirt, dust, and other particles, making the wig appear dull and unkempt. Moreover, if you continuously wear a wig that has old glue on it, it can irritate your scalp and lead to discomfort, itchiness, and even hair loss. By removing wig glue promptly and effectively, you can maintain the quality of your wig and ensure a comfortable experience.

Tools and materials needed

Items you\’ll need for wig glue removal

Before you begin the wig glue removal process, it\’s essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here are the items you will need:

1. Warm water: This will be used to soak the wig and help loosen the glue.
2. Soap or mild shampoo: Choose a gentle soap or shampoo that won\’t be too harsh on the wig.
3. Alcohol-based solvent: An alcohol-based solvent can effectively dissolve and remove wig glue.
4. Oil-based product: Use an oil-based product to soften the glue for easy removal.
5. Clarifying shampoo: This type of shampoo is specially designed to remove residue and build-up from the hair.
6. Vinegar: Vinegar can help break down the glue and make it easier to remove.
7. Soft brush or toothbrush: These can be used to scrub and gently remove the glue.
8. Towel: You\’ll need a towel to dry the wig after the removal process.
9. Wig conditioner: This will help restore moisture and keep the wig looking its best.

Where to find these items

You can find most of these items at your local beauty supply store, drugstore, or online. It\’s important to choose high-quality products to ensure the best results and minimize any potential damage to your wig.

Preparation before removing wig glue

Cleaning the wig beforehand

Before attempting to remove wig glue, it\’s crucial to clean the wig thoroughly. This step will help remove any dirt, oils, or debris from the wig, allowing the glue removal process to be more effective. To clean the wig, fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild shampoo or soap. Gently swish the wig in the soapy water, ensuring every strand is covered. Rinse the wig with clean water until all soap residue is removed.

Conditioning the wig

After cleaning the wig, it\’s essential to condition it to restore moisture and keep the hair strands soft and manageable. Apply a small amount of wig conditioner to your hands and distribute it evenly throughout the wig, focusing on the ends. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes, then rinse it out with cool water.

Protecting your natural hair

If you have any natural hair underneath the wig, it is crucial to take precautions to protect it during the glue removal process. Consider applying a protective cap or wrapping your hair with a silk scarf before removing the wig glue. This will prevent the glue from coming into contact with your natural hair and causing any damage.

Water and soap method

Step 1: Soaking the wig in warm water

Fill a sink or basin with warm water, ensuring it\’s not too hot to avoid damaging the wig. Place the wig in the water, ensuring that the glued areas are fully submerged. Allow the wig to soak for about 10-15 minutes or until the glue has loosened.

Step 2: Applying soap to the glued areas

After the wig has soaked, remove it from the water and squeeze out any excess moisture. Apply a small amount of mild soap or shampoo directly to the areas where the glue is present. Gently massage the soap into the glued areas, ensuring that the entire surface is covered.

Step 3: Gently scrubbing the glue off

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the glued areas in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the wig fibers. Continue scrubbing until the glue starts to loosen and separate from the wig.

Step 4: Rinsing the wig

Once you have successfully removed the glue, rinse the wig under cool running water to remove any remaining soap residue. Make sure to rinse thoroughly, ensuring that all the glue and soap are completely washed away.

Step 5: Drying and styling the wig

To dry the wig, gently squeeze out any excess water and pat it dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing or wringing the wig, as this can cause tangles and damage. Once the wig is mostly dry, you can style it as desired using heat styling tools or air-drying methods.

 

Alcohol-based solvent method

Step 1: Applying alcohol to the glued areas

Dampen a cotton pad or swab with an alcohol-based solvent. Apply the solvent to the glued areas of the wig, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 2: Letting the solvent sit for a few minutes

Allow the alcohol-based solvent to sit on the glued areas for a few minutes. This will help break down the glue and make it easier to remove.

Step 3: Gently rubbing or scraping off the glue

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently rub or scrape off the softened glue. Be cautious not to tug or pull too hard on the wig fibers, as this can cause damage.

Step 4: Wiping away any residue

Once you have removed the majority of the glue, use a clean cotton pad or swab to wipe away any remaining residue. Continue this process until all glue and residue have been eliminated.

Step 5: Cleaning the wig with mild soap and water

After removing the glue and residue, wash the wig with mild soap and warm water to ensure all traces of the alcohol-based solvent are eliminated. Follow the steps outlined in the Water and Soap Method section to clean, rinse, and dry the wig.

Oil-based method

Step 1: Applying an oil-based product to the glue

Apply a generous amount of an oil-based product, such as coconut oil or baby oil, to the glued areas of the wig. Ensure that the glue is fully covered with the oil-based product.

Step 2: Letting the oil sit and soften the glue

Allow the oil to sit on the glued areas for at least 30 minutes. This will give the oil enough time to penetrate and soften the glue, making it easier to remove.

Step 3: Gently removing the softened glue

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the glue in a circular motion. The softened glue should start to break apart and detach from the wig fibers. Be careful not to tug or pull too hard on the wig while removing the glue.

Step 4: Washing the wig with a clarifying shampoo

After successfully removing the softened glue, wash the wig using a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and residue effectively. Follow the steps outlined in the Water and Soap Method section to clean, rinse, and dry the wig.

Step 5: Conditioning the wig

Once the wig is clean, apply a generous amount of wig conditioner to restore moisture and keep the hair strands soft and manageable. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes, then rinse it out with cool water. Proceed to dry and style the wig as desired.

Steam method

Step 1: Boiling water and creating steam

Boil a pot of water until it produces steam. Be cautious not to place your face too close to the boiling water to avoid burns. Once steam is produced, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Holding the wig over the steam

Hold the glued areas of the wig over the steam, allowing the steam to penetrate the glue and soften it. Be careful not to let the wig touch the boiling water or get too close to the steam to prevent damage.

Step 3: Carefully scraping off the softened glue

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently scrape off the softened glue. The glue should start to come apart and detach from the wig fibers. Take your time and be gentle while removing the glue.

Step 4: Cleaning the wig with mild soap and water

After removing the glue, clean the wig using mild soap and warm water. Follow the steps outlined in the Water and Soap Method section to clean, rinse, and dry the wig.

Step 5: Drying and styling the wig

To dry the wig, gently squeeze out any excess water and pat it dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing or wringing the wig. Once the wig is mostly dry, you can style it as desired using heat styling tools or air-drying methods.

Vinegar and warm water method

Step 1: Mixing vinegar and warm water

In a bowl or sink, mix equal parts of vinegar and warm water. The vinegar will help break down the glue and make it easier to remove.

Step 2: Soaking the wig in the solution

Place the wig in the solution, ensuring that the glued areas are fully submerged. Allow the wig to soak for about 15-20 minutes or until the glue has significantly softened.

Step 3: Gently brushing off the softened glue

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently brush the glued areas in a circular motion. The softened glue should start to come off easily. Take your time and be gentle while removing the glue.

Step 4: Rinsing the wig with clean water

After successfully removing the glue, rinse the wig under clean running water to remove any remaining vinegar residue. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and ensure that all the glue and vinegar are completely washed away.

Step 5: Drying and styling the wig

To dry the wig, gently squeeze out any excess water and pat it dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing or wringing the wig. Once the wig is mostly dry, you can style it as desired using heat styling tools or air-drying methods.

Commercial wig adhesive removers

Types of wig adhesive removers available

There are several types of commercial wig adhesive removers available on the market. These include adhesive dissolvers, glue removers in spray form, and adhesive solvent wipes. Each type of remover has its unique characteristics and is designed to effectively remove wig glue without causing damage to the wig. It is essential to choose a remover that suits your specific needs and preferences.

How to use commercial removers properly

When using a commercial wig adhesive remover, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, you will apply the remover to the glued areas of the wig, let it sit for a specified period, and then gently remove the glue using a soft brush or cloth. Make sure to read and understand the instructions thoroughly before using any commercial remover to ensure the best results and minimize any potential damage to your wig.

Tips and precautions

Testing the removal method on a small area first

Before attempting to remove the glue from your entire wig, it is advisable to test the chosen removal method on a small and inconspicuous area of the wig. This will allow you to assess the effectiveness of the chosen method and determine any potential adverse reactions or damage to the wig. If the method works well on the test area, you can confidently proceed with removing the glue from the entire wig.

Being gentle and patient with the removal process

When removing wig glue, it is crucial to be gentle and patient to avoid damaging the wig. Brushing or scrubbing too aggressively can lead to hair breakage or tangling. Take your time and work slowly and delicately, allowing the removal method to soften and break down the glue before attempting to remove it.

Avoiding excessive use of harsh chemicals

While certain methods involve the use of alcohol, oil-based products, or vinegar, it is essential to avoid excessive use of these harsh chemicals. Prolonged exposure to strong chemicals can cause damage to the wig fibers, particularly synthetic wigs. Always follow the recommended usage instructions and rinse the wig thoroughly to remove any chemical residue after the removal process.

Protecting the wig during the removal process

Throughout the glue removal process, it is crucial to handle the wig with care to prevent any unnecessary damage. Be mindful of the wig cap and hair strands while applying solvents, scrubbing, or scraping off the glue. Additionally, avoid pulling or tugging on the wig too forcefully, as this can lead to hair breakage or permanent damage to the wig. Handle the wig gently and take the necessary precautions to maintain its quality and longevity.