How to Clean a Hair System

For hair system wearers, "cleaning" is much more than just a quick wash. It is a precise two-stage process involving Adhesive Removal (De-bonding) and Washing/Conditioning. Improper techniques—such as using water that is too hot or scrubbing too vigorously—are the leading causes of base damage and premature shedding.

Following the professional standards set by Bono Hair, here is the definitive 5-step workflow to salon-quality care at home.

🛠️ The Essential Toolkit

Before you begin, ensure you have these tools ready:

Adhesive Solvent: A citrus-based or oil-based remover (e.g., C-22).

Plastic Container: For soaking the system (avoid metal to prevent chemical reactions).

Plastic Scraper/Card: An old gift card or credit card works perfectly.

Nail Brush: For scrubbing stubborn residue off the base.

Sulfate-Free Shampoo & Conditioner: Look for acid-balanced products specifically for hairpieces.

Vent Brush: A wide-toothed brush designed for wet hair.

Phase I: The Clean-Up (Removing the Adhesive)

Removing every trace of glue or tape is critical. If the base isn't 100% clean, your next bond will not hold securely.

Step 1: Remove the Tape

The Technique: Gently lift the edge of the tape with your fingernail and peel it back slowly.

Prevention: If the tape is stuck firmly to a Lace base, do not pull hard! Instead, spray solvent on the area or soak it for a few minutes until the tape slides off effortlessly. This prevents the delicate mesh from tearing.

Step 2: The Solvent Bath (Soaking)

Action: Place the hair system in a plastic container filled with solvent.

Timing: * Tape Residue: Soak for 5–10 minutes.

Liquid Adhesive (Glue): May require 10–15 minutes.

Warning: Do not over-soak (especially with oil-based solvents like C-22) as it can potentially discolor some bases or weaken the hair knots if left for hours.

Tip: Use this time to clean your scalp thoroughly with an exfoliant to remove dead skin and oils.

Step 3: Clear the Base

This step requires patience and a gentle touch.

Scraping: Lay the system hair-side down on a flat surface. Use your plastic card to gently scrape the softened adhesive from the center toward the edges.

For Lace: Be extremely careful not to snag the holes.

For Skin/Poly: You can use short, vertical strokes.

The Nail Brush: For stubborn spots on the edges or the hairline, use a nail brush in a light circular motion.

Dish Soap Hack: If the base feels excessively greasy from the solvent, a quick wash with grease-cutting dish soap can help prep it for the shampoo phase.

Phase II: Washing & Conditioning

Once the adhesive is gone, you must remove the chemicals and restore moisture to the hair.

Step 4: Rinse and Shampoo

Temperature: Use lukewarm water. Never use hot water, as it can damage the base and cause the hair to frizz.

The "No-Rub" Rule: Never scrub or massage the hair in a circular motion like you would with natural hair. This causes "friction tangling," which is nearly impossible to fix.

The Correct Way: Apply shampoo to your palms, lather, and gently "press" the foam through the hair from the base down to the ends in a singular direction.

Step 5: Deep Conditioning

Since hair systems don't receive natural oils from a scalp, conditioner is their "lifeline."

Application: Apply conditioner only from the mid-shaft to the ends.

The Golden Rule: Never let conditioner touch the base. The smoothing agents in conditioners can lubricate the knots, causing them to loosen and the hair to shed.

Detangling: While the conditioner is in, use a vent brush to gently comb through the hair. Let it sit for 2–5 minutes before rinsing with cool water.

🌟 Pro Tips for Longevity

Leave-in Conditioner is Key: After towel-drying, apply a light leave-in spray. This provides a protective barrier and keeps the hair hydrated throughout the day.

Pat, Don't Rub: When drying, use a microfiber towel to gently "blot" or "pat" the water out. Rubbing with a towel will cause instant tangles.

Air Dry Whenever Possible: Let the system dry naturally on a wig stand. If you must use a blow dryer, use the cool or low-heat setting only.

Comb from the Bottom Up: Always start detangling at the tips and work your way up to the roots to minimize tension on the knots.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using Cotton Swabs: The fibers will stick to the adhesive and create a huge mess.

❌ Hot Water: It shrinks Poly/Skin bases and ruins the hair's curl pattern.

❌ Applying Conditioner to the Roots: This is the #1 cause of premature shedding.