How to Put On A Wig : Back to Basics

We all know that wigs are a great way to switch up how you wear your hair. Wigs are also a way to deal with hair loss and get through a health prognosis in style. There’s an amazing lift in confidence when you feel like the wig on your head looks great.

Fact: Wearing a wig is more than just unpacking it and putting it on. Let’s go back to basics for a refresher on exactly how to put on a wig.

We’re going to touch on a few tips for getting the best fit so that your wig “sits” perfectly. With any luck, you’ll be able to coax those wigs out of the back of the closet in no time.

Prepping Your Hair Under A Wig

To prep your hair, you need to secure your natural hair so there are no lumpy spots. For short or long hair, make sure all your hair is tucked away from your hairline, so nothing peeks out under your wig.

For Short hair: Generously moisturize your scalp, then brush, comb or use bobby pins to pull the hair away from your hairline. You can also use a stretchy headband to keep the hair feeling comfortable and secure.

For Long hair: Part your hair into two sections to braid or cornrow your hair to lay down smoothly. Cross the braided ends at the nape of your neck and secure with bobby pins.
For very long braids, wrap them up toward the top of your head, then secure with bobby pins.

Mannequin head modeling Braids used Under a Wig — Photo provided by @kerreberryhmua @besidesthebrush

Five Ways to Secure the Wig

 Now that your natural hair is all prepped, let’s talk about glue-free ways for keeping your human hair wig or synthetic wig in place. One of the most important steps in wearing a wig is securing it correctly. No one wants to deal with wigs falling, sliding, or (eek!) blowing off on a gusty day. These are the best options for keeping your beautiful wig on your head.

Wig Tape

First things first, if you are securing a wig over your natural hair, this step is not for you. Avoid damaging your natural hair by never using wig tape, wig glue, or double-sided tape. Wig tape works best on bald heads and attaches to the inside of your wig. This is the most scalp-friendly option to keep your wig in place for those with health issues or alopecia.

Wig Grip Band

Wig grips are one of the most popular options for securing any type of wig. They are worn underneath your wig and adjust to the way your head moves to prevent slippage.

Wig grips also add a level of comfort by alleviating the tightness you feel while keeping your wig in place. The best part? No issues when taking your wig on and off during the day.

Wig band on a wig, wig clips and wig glue.

Wig Caps

Wig caps are another option that benefits those with and without hair underneath. The biggest benefit of wearing wig caps is the protective barrier between your scalp and your wig. When choosing a wig cap, there are three options:

Nylon Wig Caps work for those with shorter hair or no hair; they provide a smoothness when laying against the skin.
Mesh Wig Caps are for those with longer hair; they provide a flattening effect for securing long hair under the wig.
Wig Grip Caps, as discussed before are best for those who have sensitive skin but need a protective barrier between the wig and scalp.

Silicone Solution Sheets

Silicone solution sheets are a great way to protect your edges and natural hair. They can be cut and sewn into the wig and provide a strong grip inside the wig. Say goodbye to the fear of losing your wig in public with this no-stretch but flexible option.

The best part is, these sheets work very nicely with your budget. The only downside is that silicone solution sheets can cause your head to overheat. Be mindful and stay cool.

Wig Clips

Wig clips work best on those with hair who know how to sew. After prepping your hair with cornrows or braids, these easy-to-use clips can be sewn into the wig.

Wig clips are an inexpensive and permanent solution that come in a range of sizes and colors to match your wigs. On the downside, wig clips can cause scratching for those with sensitive skin. Figure out the option from this list that works best for you.

Creating a Hairline on A Lace Front Wig

If you scroll a bit online, you’ll find a ton of ways to create a hairline or baby hairs on lace front wigs. Of all the options, let’s look at the most popular, plucking your wig part and styling the baby hairs.

Plucking

When you first purchase your lace wig, you will want to get rid of the excess hair around the hairline. Removing the dense hair around the edges is the key to a natural-looking wig.
For this step, you’ll want to grab a set of tweezers to pluck the edges away from the face.

Working in sections, tweeze the knots away from the edge of the wig. Breaking up the hairline and the wig’s part will create a balance so that the end result looks very natural.

Black woman modeling Vivica Fox Garden Lace-Front Wig — Vivica Fox Garden Lace-Front Wig

Baby Hair

Cut the Lace- After unpacking your new lace front wig, trim the excess lace that hangs over the front of the wig. Cut about a quarter-inch of the lace from around the front and sides of the wig. Using a sharp pair of shears, carefully cut in long strokes, and please be patient. The best practice here is to cut in small sections to avoid cutting too much at once.
Part the Hair- Use two large hair clips, separate the hair, and secure with each clip. Use a fine-toothed comb and a blow dryer to create a part on one side of your wig. Once the hair starts to dry, continue using the comb to fully create the part.
Water the Baby Hair- “Baby hairs” need to be completely wet in order to style them. Keep a full spray bottle nearby to spray the hairline as you go. Once your baby hairs are wet, hold a section of your damp baby hair between your index and middle finger, about 2 inches from your hairline.

Alternate between hot and cool hair to help prevent the fragile baby hairs from burning, and finish with an edge control gel and a soft brush to smooth out the hairs.

Check out this video for help with plucking a new hairline and working those baby hairs.

You’re now ready to rock your favorite natural-looking wigs in style. No more envying those Instagram wig models and no more hiding from those wigs in your closet. Be sure to check out our blog for more tips on getting the most out of any wig. Go forth and feel fabulous, queen!

How to Put On A Wig : Back to Basics

Prepping Your Hair Under A Wig