Learning how to put on a wig has become essential as wigs take center stage in personal styling, offering versatility, confidence, and convenience. Whether you’re using a wig to change your look, protect your natural hair, or address hair loss, proper application is key to achieving a comfortable, natural, and stylish fit. This guide covers everything from preparation to styling tips and maintenance advice, ensuring your wig-wearing experience is flawless and empowering.
Table of Contents
Types of Wigs: Choose the Right Option for Your Needs
Before learning how to put on a wig, it’s essential to understand the different types available to match your preferences. Here’s an overview of popular wig types:
Lace Front Wigs
- Description: Lace front wigs feature a thin lace strip at the front, offering a natural-looking hairline and various parting options. They are perfect for achieving a realistic look and are popular among fashion enthusiasts.
- Best For: Those who prioritize realism and hairstyling flexibility.
- Why It Works: The lace front mimics a natural hairline, making it hard to detect you’re wearing a wig.
- Benefits: Lace front wigs are lightweight, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Full Cap Wigs
- Description: Full cap wigs cover the entire scalp and provide maximum hair volume.
- Best For: Individuals experiencing significant hair loss or those who prefer high-density wigs.
- Why It Works: Full coverage ensures no visible gaps and maximum styling potential.
- Benefits: Full cap wigs are easy to style and available in synthetic or natural hair options.
Remy Human Hair Wigs
- Description: These wigs use premium-quality human hair with intact cuticles for a natural, long-lasting appearance.
- Best For: Those who want a premium option that mimics the texture and feel of natural hair.
- Why It Works: They allow for heat styling, offering endless styling possibilities.
- Benefits: Durability, natural texture, and flexibility in styling.
Synthetic Wigs
- Description: Affordable and pre-styled, synthetic wigs are perfect for quick, effortless looks.
- Best For: Beginners or those who want maintenance-free wigs.
- Why It Works: These wigs retain their style even after washing, making them ideal for quick and easy use.
- Benefits: Retains shape after washing and doesn’t require restyling.
Now that you know about your wig type, let’s move on to the next step of preparing to wear your wig.
Preparing for Wig Application
Proper preparation is crucial to achieving a secure fit and a natural look and a smooth and clean base is the foundation of a flawless wig application. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Clean and Prep Your Scalp
Start with a clean scalp to prevent oil buildup and ensure better adhesive grip. If you have natural hair, make sure it’s moisturized to avoid dryness under the wig cap. - Manage Your Natural Hair
- For long hair: Braid or twist it into small sections and secure it flat against your scalp.
- For short hair: Brush it back and secure it with a wig cap.
- Choose the Right Wig Cap
A well-fitted wig cap is essential for keeping your hair in place. Caps come in different materials, such as silk, monofilament, and PU… catering to comfort and skin sensitivity. Choose a cap that matches your skin tone for an invisible finish.
Tools and Accessories You’ll Need
Equipping yourself with the right tools makes putting on a wig much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wig Cap: For flattening your natural hair.
- Adjustable Straps/Clips: Built-in features in most wigs to prevent slipping and secure the wig in place.
- Wig Tape or Adhesive: Essential for lace front wigs to keep them in place, achieve a seamless hairline
- Comb or Wig Brush: Helps with precise parting, styling and detangling.
- Wig Stand: To keep your wig in shape when not in use.
- Heat-Protectant Spray: A must for Remy human hair wigs before using heat-styling tools.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put on a Wig for Beginners
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned wig wearer, the steps below will ensure a secure and natural look:
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before putting on a wig, the foundation is key to ensuring it fits properly and looks natural. Start by preparing your natural hair:
- For Short Hair: Brush and smooth your hair down to reduce bulk, making it easier for the wig to sit flat against your head.
- For Long Hair: Braid or twist your hair into flat sections and pin them close to your scalp. Alternatively, create a low bun and secure it with bobby pins.
- For No Hair or Very Short Hair: Clean your scalp and moisturize lightly to ensure the wig sits comfortably.
Styling Tip: Use a wig cap for a smooth, secure base and to prevent your natural hair from slipping out under the wig.
Step 2: Position the Wig Cap
A wig cap creates a smooth surface for the wig and helps it stay in place:
- Stretch the wig cap over your head, starting at your forehead and pulling it back over your hair.
- Tuck any stray hairs under the cap for a seamless appearance.
- Adjust the wig cap to align with your natural hairline and ensure it’s snug but not too tight.
Pro Tip: Choose a wig cap color that matches your skin tone for a more natural look, especially if your wig has lace parts.
Step 3: Prepare the Wig
Before wearing your wig, inspect and adjust it:
- Brush or Comb the Wig: Gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. Avoid pulling to maintain the hair fibers.
- Check the Adjustments: Most wigs have adjustable straps or hooks inside the cap. Tighten or loosen them for a snug fit.
- Style in Advance: For lace front wigs, trim the lace carefully around the hairline to customize it to your natural contours.
Expert Wig Tip: Apply a small amount of wig adhesive or tape if you need extra security, especially for activities or long hours of wear.
Step 4: Put the Wig On
Now it’s time to place the wig on your head. Follow these steps for proper application:
- Hold the Wig: Hold the wig by the nape (the back) and tilt it slightly.
- Position the Front: Place the front edge of the wig at your natural hairline, ensuring it sits comfortably.
- Pull the Wig Back: Glide the rest of the wig over your head, adjusting the sides as you go.
Step 5: Secure the Wig
- Use clips, adhesive, or a wig grip band for added security.
- For lace front wigs, trim the excess lace and apply adhesive along the hairline.
Step 6: Adjust for Comfort and Alignment
After putting the wig on, take a few moments to perfect its position:
- Align the Hairline: Ensure the wig’s hairline matches your natural hairline or sits slightly ahead for a realistic look.
- Adjust the Ear Tabs: Wig caps often have small ear tabs on the sides to guide positioning. Align these evenly for a balanced fit.
- Check the Comfort: Ensure there are no bumps or pressure points under the cap.
Pro Tip: Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the wig placement right.
Step 7: Style the Wig
Now that your wig is on, it’s time to style it to your liking:
- Use a comb to style the wig as desired.
- Use heat tools sparingly for Remy human hair wigs (if applicable) or if the wig is heat resistant.
- For lace front wigs, gently press the lace onto your forehead for a seamless blend.
- Customize the wig to match your style preferences. Add volume, curls, or waves for a dynamic look, or smooth it down for a sleek appearance.
Styling Tip: Avoid overusing styling products, as they can build up and damage the wig fibers.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Finally, complete the look with these finishing tips:
- Blend with Makeup: Use a small amount of foundation or concealer to blend the wig’s hairline or part with your skin tone.
- Secure Flyaways: Use a wig spray or light hairspray to tame any flyaways.
- Double-Check Fit: Look in the mirror from all angles to ensure the wig looks natural and fits securely.
Step 9: Daily Maintenance Tips
To keep your wig looking flawless throughout the day:
- Avoid touching or pulling on the wig unnecessarily.
- Carry a small comb or brush for touch-ups on the go.
- Protect your wig from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or high heat.
By following these steps, putting on a wig becomes a simple and empowering part of your routine. With proper preparation and styling, you’ll achieve a flawless, natural look every time!
Tips for Achieving a Natural Look
Achieving a flawless, natural look takes practice and creativity, here are some expert wig care tips to help you with it:
- Blend the Edges: Use foundation, concealer or powder to blend the lace with your skin tone.
- Customize the Hairline: Trim the lace and pluck a few hairs at the front for a natural look.
- Add Baby Hairs: Lace front wigs often come with baby hairs you can style to mimic natural hair growth.
- Adjust the Parting: Experiment with side or middle parts to find the most flattering look for your face shape.
Maintenance and Care for Your Wig
Proper wig care extends its lifespan and ensures it always looks its best. Follow these essential maintenance tips:
Washing Your Wig
- Synthetic Wigs: Wash every 8–10 wears using a wig-specific shampoo.
- Human Hair Wigs: Wash every 6–8 wears and condition to keep the hair soft and manageable.
Detangling Tips
- Always detangle from the ends to the roots using a wide-tooth comb.
- Avoid harsh brushing on wet wigs to prevent damage.
Avoiding Damage
- For synthetic wigs, avoid heat styling like curling irons or blow dryers altogether.
- For human hair wigs, use a heat protectant and limit heat styling.
Storing Your Wig
- Use a wig stand to maintain the shape and prevent tangling.
Common Challenges When Putting on a Wig
Even seasoned wig wearers encounter challenges. Here’s how to address them:
- Slipping Wig: Tighten the adjustable straps or use a wig grip band for a firmer fit.
- Uncomfortable Fit: Choose the right wig size based on your head measurements.
- Tangled Hair: Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb from ends to roots.
- Itchiness: Choose breathable wig caps or invest in medical-grade silicone caps.
- Visible Lace: Blend with makeup and ensure a thin proper adhesive placement.
Styling and Experimentation for Wigs
Enhance your wig look by experimenting with accessories and techniques:
- Add a headband or scarf for a fun, unique look.
- Use light hairspray or mousse for synthetic wigs to define curls or waves, and maintain volume
- Experiment with parts to suit your face shape.
- Try curling or straightening Remy human hair wigs to match different occasions.
Conclusion
Learning how to put on a wig transforms the experience of wearing one into a confidence-boosting routine. With the right tools, techniques, and care, anyone can achieve a natural, flawless look. By choosing high-quality wigs and maintaining them properly, you can enjoy a confident and stylish appearance for any occasion. Explore ATM Wigs for high-quality, versatile options and start redefining your style today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I sleep in a wig?
It’s not recommended as it can cause tangling and reduce the wig’s lifespan. - How do I secure a wig for active wear?
Use a wig grip band and extra clips for sports or high-movement activities. - Are lace front wigs suitable for beginners?
Yes, but they require careful handling and adhesive application for a seamless look.
