How to Get Wig Glue Out of Hair

Using a glue dissolver is the safest way to get wig glue out of hair.

Your choice of wig dissolver depends on the glue you use on your human hair wig. Oil might be all you need to remove glue from a light-weight glue. A firm grip glue might require alcohol or a special glue dissolver.

Whatever the case, we will show you how to get wig glue out of your hair.

Glue has been associated lately with hair. While it’s unlike harsher hardware or fabric glues, this glue secures hairstyles to the head. It’s latex soluble so it comes off easily. However, most ladies become nervous when it’s time to get it out of their hair. That’s understandable since installing and uninstalling glued wigs requires patience and extra care.

But do not worry; read on to see how you can get wig glue out of your hair.

Easy Steps to Get Wig Glue out of Hair

When removing glue from your hair, it’s important to be gentle and careful. If it’s removed haphazardly, you can ruin your edges or the lace of the wig. So, take your time and follow the steps below.

Step one: Apply alcohol to the glue

The most common product used to remove wig glue is alcohol. Apply some on your glue and wait for a few minutes. While the product you use determines the outcome, any alcohol-based solution is fine.  

If you find it hard to apply directly, pour some on a clean towel and pat your hairline with it. You can use a spray bottle as well. These methods are very convenient. Remember to apply it to all areas so the glue comes off easily.

Those prone to irritation can use a combination of alcohol and oil.

Step two: Remove your lace wig

Lift the lace off your head after waiting a few minutes. Start from one side and pull gently as you move towards the other side.  If there are areas that are not coming off, reapply the solution and use your hands to massage it. Pull once again to see if it comes off. After you’ve removed it, you can take off your lace wig.

Clean your forehead with alcohol to remove all glue patches that may still be on your head.

Step three: Remove your wig cap

Once you’ve removed your wig, take off your wig cap as well. The wig cap has contact with your natural hair. So while you do this, be careful.

Again, apply rubbing alcohol to the edges of the wig cap and start pulling it off gently. You can reapply until it comes off completely.

Step four: Clean your hairline

It’s normal to see some lingering glues on your hairline or hair. Take your time to remove those patches from your hair thoroughly.

You can simply use a cotton pad or towel to clean the areas you glued. Or, soak styling strips in alcohol for five minutes, then wrap them around your head. This helps to keep your scalp safe from any buildup.

Step five: Care for your hair

Next is to care for your hair. Now that you’ve gotten any glue residue from your hair, moisturizing your hair is the next thing to do.

Alcohol dries the hair fast, and it can be bad for your hairline. So, pick up your shampoo and conditioner and get your hair moisturized.

Other Products You Can Use to Get Wig Glue out of Your Hair

1. Oils

Oils work well in removing glue from your hair. Most hairdressers consider using oils better than alcohol since it does not irritate the skin. You can use olive, coconut, almond oil, or whatever oil you have.

The process is easy and simple. Simply use a cotton pad to apply the oil to the glued areas. Wait for a few minutes, let it sit in, and start massaging. Massage for some time before you start lifting the lace. Remember, your hair must be dry when you apply the oil. Wet hair can cause tangling, causing a detangling process.  

2. Conditioner Mix

Conditioner mix has proven to work effectively in removing wig glue. Simply pour some conditioner into a container and add some water. Mix and apply this to your glue. You can pour this into a bottle spray, so it becomes much easier to apply directly. If you think diluting it will be too watery, use only conditioner.

It’s a method that is effective, convenient, and safe. You should not feel irritated using the conditioner for your hair.

3. Adhesive Wig remover

Adhesive wig remover is formulated to uninstall wigs. It’s a good substitute but might be a bad choice for those with sensitive skin.

While you can still use one, opt for removers designed for people with sensitive skin. That’ll be smoother on your skin without causing a reaction.

The Meltdown Lace Glue remover is sensitive skin-friendly. So you can try it out.

Other good glue removers are the Bold Hold Lace remover and the Got2b Unglued Flash Glue remover.  

4. Warm Water Solution

Apart from using oils or conditioners, another home remedy you can try is the warm water solution. For this, add a pinch of salt or soda to some warm water, mix thoroughly, and apply to your glue.

You can pour it into a spray bottle to make the process more seamless. After applying, wear a shower hat and wait for a few minutes. 10 to 15 minutes should be enough. Check it out and remove the wig gently.

While this method is natural and soothing, it can take time.

What You Shouldn’t Use to Remove Glue from Your Hair

1. Petroleum Jelly

While you can use petroleum jelly to remove adhesive, it can be trickier to wash off once the glue comes off. That’s because it leaves your hair and scalp greasy.

2. Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoo breaks down oils and dirt. Using it on your hair leaves it too clean, making it hard for the glue to emulsify. Also, after using alcohol, clarifying shampoo can make your hair dry.

3. Rubbing Alcohol

You may be wondering why we included this. Well, that’s because we won’t advise you to use alcohol on your hair if you have sensitive skin.

But if you must, as we’ve mentioned earlier, make use of oil in the area as well. You should apply the oil immediately after you’ve successfully uninstalled the wig.

How to Care for Your Wig After Removing Glue

You’ve removed the glue from your natural hair and cared for it; that’s good. But what about the wig?

Here’s how to get wig glue out of your wig hair and care for it:

Step 1: Get a Few Tools you will Need

Pick up a clean towel, a toothbrush you no longer use, or your adhesive remover. Once you’ve gotten your tools ready, move to the next step.

Step 2: Brush out the Glue

Place the towel on your lap and lay your wig on it. Spray the adhesive remover of your choice with a brush, and gently pull out every glue on the lace of the wig. You are to do this gently. Scrub until the glue comes off.

Step 3: Wash your Wig

Next is to wash your wig. But make sure you’ve detangled it properly before you move to this step.

Fill a container with some lukewarm water. You can use your sink for the washing process as well.

Add shampoo to the water and mix it well before putting your wig in. Stir the water while your wig is in the mixture, and then leave it to sit for about five minutes.

Step 4: Rinse your Wig

Remove your wig from the water and rinse under cold water. You can soak it a few more times if you notice that your wig is still dirty.

Step 5: Condition your Wig

Fill the sink or bowl with water once again. Then, pour some conditioner into the water and stir till it completely dissolves.

Dip your wig into the mixture and allow it to soak into the hair. You can use your fingers to get the conditioner mixture into the strands.

Step 6: Rinse Out the Conditioner

With cool water, rinse the wig till there’s no mixture left on the strands. Be gentle as you do so.

You can apply oil on your hair so it reduces frizz and seals in some moisture.

Step 7: Dry your Wig

Place your wig on a clean towel and gently pat it to dry. Remember not to squeeze it.

After you’ve patted it for some time, with no water dripping, allow it to air dry.

Step 8: Store your Wig

Gently detangle your wig with a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. You can use a detangling spray if need be. Once all the knots are gone, store it in a cool place.  

Conclusion

Removing wig glue from your hair can be a challenging task. For that reason, we’ve put together this guide. We hope it assists you and make the process easier.

While you get the glue out, remember to keep harsh products away from your hair. Instead, opt for some products we’ve listed in this post.