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How to Style and Wear a Wig? A Complete Guide

How to Style and Wear a Wig? A Complete Guide

Trying on a wig for the first time can be both exciting and scary. Maybe you just want to try a new look without changing your real hair, or maybe you're wearing a wig because of hair loss and want to feel like yourself again. Whatever your reason is, we're here for you! We'll teach you how to style and wear a  wig properly and maintain it so it stays looking great, just like you.

If you want to learn in person, you can book an appointment with a stylist who knows how to put on wigs. They can guide you step by step and answer your questions.

But if you want to learn by yourself, here's what you'll require:

  • A wig brush or a regular hairbrush  
  • Hair gel, mousse, or a spray bottle with water  
  • Bobby pins  
  • Hair ties  
  • Wig glue  
  • Wig tape  
  • Wig clips  
  • Your wig  

We’re going to walk you through each step so you’ll feel confident putting on your wig like a pro!

Wig Types

Understanding the different types of wigs can help you pick the best one for you. Each one has its unique qualities and benefits. Consider your preferences and requirements when selecting the right wig for you. 

Here are some common types of wigs:

  • Lace front wigs: Lace front wigs are a top pick for people who want a natural-looking hairline. They have a thin lace front that blends with your skin, which looks like the hair is growing right from your scalp. You can find them in both synthetic and human hair, and you can style them in many different ways.
  • Synthetic wigs: Synthetic wigs are less expensive and easier to manage. They're pre-styled and maintain their shape, making them an excellent choice for daily wear. With numerous shades and styles, synthetic wigs provide the freedom to experiment with styles without a long-term commitment.
  • Human hair wigs: These wigs are made from real hair that provides you with a natural look and feel. You can style and color them just like your own hair, offering many ways to customize. Although they are more expensive than synthetic wigs, they're well worth the investment for their quality and versatility.

When selecting a wig, think about your budget, the style you want, and how much maintenance you're willing to do. Check out the different types of wigs to find the one that's just right for you.

Benefits of Wearing Wigs  

Wearing a wig has many benefits, whether you're looking to change up your style or deal with hair loss.

  Here’s why wigs are great:

  • Switch your style: Wigs allow you to try new haircuts, colors, and lengths without making a long-term commitment.
  • Cover hair loss: Wigs are perfect for those who are suffering from hair loss as a result of medical conditions, chemotherapy, or normal thinning.
  • Look more natural: Lace front wigs help you to have a natural-looking hairline, so it is hard for others to notice that you are wearing a wig.
  • Protect your natural hair: Wearing a wig prevents your natural hair from heat styling and excessive brushing, allowing it to remain healthy.
  • Help your hair grow: Since you're not styling your natural hair as often, wigs can give it a break and support healthy growth.

Overall, wigs are an easy and effective way to boost your self-confidence and appearance, especially if you're suffering from hair loss.

Getting Ready to Wear a Wig: What You'll Need

Before you put on a wig, it's a good idea to have some of the proper tools to make sure it fits nicely and stays securely on your head. 

Here's what you need to have:

  • Wig cap: This will help keep your natural hair down and provide the wig with a smooth surface to rest on.
  • Bobby pins: These tiny pins help keep the wig cap and wig secure.
  • Wig clips: These are small, comb-like clips that you may sew inside the wig to provide additional support.
  • Wig tape: This is adhesive tape that fits between your scalp and the wig and holds it in position.

Having all of these items will make wearing your wig more comfortable and keep it secure throughout the day.

Essential Wig Tools and Accessories

1. Wig cap: The wig cap is one of the most important items when you're wearing a wig. It keeps your own hair in place and provides the wig with a smooth surface to rest on. Wig caps are available in different materials, such as cotton, mesh, or soft bamboo, so you can pick one that feels good to you.

2. Bobby pins: Bobby pins are also very useful. They keep the cap on and assist with keeping the wig in place. You can pin them down along your hairline and the back of your head. Just ensure they feel tight and lie flat so the wig stays in place.

3. Wig clips: Wig clips are small, comb-shaped clips that can be easily sewn into your wig to help keep it secure. They can be clipped to your natural hair or to your wig cap, whichever you are comfortable with. They are very effective for those who have longer or thicker hair, as they give extra hold so your wig will not slide off.

4. Wig tape: Wig tape is a sticky tape with glue on both sides of the tape,  that helps in fixing the wig to your head so it stays in place. It's a convenient option if you do not want to use glue and want an easily removable item. Wig tape is easy to use and good for daily use.

Using tools like wig caps, bobby pins, clips, and tape will help your wig feel comfortable and stay on securely.

Choosing the Right Wig for Your Head Shape

 

Choosing the Right Wig for Your Head Shape

 

Picking a wig that suits your head shape helps you look more natural and feel confident. Here's a simple guide to help you choose:

1. Measure your head: Use a tape measure to find the size of your head. Start at your front hairline, go around the back, and come back to where you started. Write down the number.

2. Figure out your head shape:  Look at the size and shape of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. This will help you know if your head is round, oval, square, heart-shaped, or diamond-shaped.

3. Pick the right wig style:  Each head shape looks best with certain wig styles. 

Here’s an easy guide:

  • Round Face: Long, layered wigs help add length and balance.
  • Oval Face: Lucky you! Most wig styles look great on oval faces.
  • Square Face: Go for wigs with soft, rounded edges to soften the jawline.
  • Heart-Shaped Face: Short, layered wigs look great and balance the forehead and chin.
  • Diamond-Shaped Face: Chin-length wigs work well to highlight your cheekbones.

Choosing a wig that fits your head shape can boost your look and make the wig look more natural on you. 

How to Put on a Wig: Easy Step-by-Step Guide 

Once you have everything you need, follow these simple steps to put on your wig comfortably and securely:

1. Get Your Hair Ready

To make your wig fit well, you need to make your real hair as flat as possible. If your hair is bumpy, the wig will also look bumpy and might not stay on securely.

If you have short hair:

  • You can either dampen your hair with water or apply some gel or mousse to keep it flat.  
  • Then, brush your hair back and pin it down with small bobby pins.

If you have long hair:  

  1. Slightly wet your hair to make styling easier.
  2. You can:
  • Tie your hair in a low ponytail, flip it over your head, and put on the wig cap.
  • Make 2 to 4 braids, wrap them around your head, and pin them down.
  • If you have curly or thick hair (type 3 or 4), cornrows work best.
  • Tip: Make sure the bobby pins are flat and tight. You can also use bigger clips if you have thick hair.

2. Put On a Wig Cap

We strongly suggest wearing a wig cap under your wig. It helps protect your skin and keeps your wig clean by stopping oils from your hair or scalp from getting on it. Wig caps can also make your wig last longer.
These are the three common types of wig caps:

  • Cotton: Smooth and airy. Great if you have hair loss and prefer less rubbing on your scalp.
  • Nylon/Mesh: Light and thin. Good if you have hair and don't want to feel too many layers.
  • Aloe Vera or Bamboo: Soft and Comfy. Bamboo helps keep sweat away, which makes it great for hot weather.

Next, put the wig cap on your head. Make sure you’re using the right size. If it feels too tight or too loose, it might not be the best fit.

  1. Start by placing the cap at the back of your head, then pull it over the top so it sits snugly along your hairline.  
  2. Tuck in any loose hairs or flyaways under the cap.

Tip: To help the wig look more natural, try using a wig cap that matches your skin tone.

3. Secure the Wig

There are different ways to keep your wig in place; just choose the one that feels best for you.

  • Wig Glue: This is popular for lace front wigs. Put a little glue (like Got2b Glued Hairspray) along your hairline. Let it air dry or use a blow-dryer on a cool setting. Next, press the edge of your wig onto the glue to secure it.
  • Wig Tape: Wig tape is similar to glue in function but is less messy. Cut small pieces of tape and stick them along the inside hairline of your wig. When you're ready, peel off the top layer of the tape and press the wig onto your head. Push gently where the tape is to secure it.
  • Bobby Pins: This is the easiest way to hold your wig. Use bobby pins that match your wig color so they’re not easy to see. Slide the pins between your wig and the cap underneath. Use as many as you need to feel secure.
  • Wig Clips: If you know how to sew (or want to learn), you can sew wig clips inside the wig — about 4 to 6 clips. These snap onto your natural hair or wig cap to keep the wig in place.

Tip: If you use glue or tape, wrap a scarf or headband around your hairline for a few minutes after putting on the wig. This helps it stick better.

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4. Put On the Wig

Use both hands when putting on your wig. It might take a few tries to get it right, but it gets easier with practice.

  1. Start by holding the wig at the back. Place it just above the back of your neck and pull it forward over your head.
  2. If you're using glue or tape, press the front of the wig down gently so it sticks to your hairline.
  3. If you're using clips or pins, start on one side and go around your head to secure it.

Tip: If the wig feels a bit loose, many wigs have adjustable straps in the back that you can tighten for a better fit.

5. Adjust the Wig

It's important that your wig feels comfortable and stays in place. A simple way to check is by gently shaking your head.

Go ahead, give your head a little shake! If the wig moves or falls off, you might need to add more clips, pins, or glue to keep it secure.

Once your wig feels snug and steady, you're all set! The final and most important step is to feel confident in your new look. Nothing looks better than feeling good about yourself!

How to Style a Wig (The Easy Way)

There are lots of fun ways to style your wig. Whether it’s human hair or synthetic, when you get a new wig, give it a gentle shake. This helps loosen the hair and make it look more natural.
Always be gentle when styling and use products specifically designed for wigs.

1. Styling Human Hair Wigs:

  • It's simpler to style human hair than synthetic hair.
  • Use a detangler spray and heat protectant before styling.
  • After brushing, you can use a curling iron or straightener carefully to achieve the desired style.
  • End with a little wig-friendly hairspray to set the style.

2. Styling Synthetic Wigs:

  • Use your fingers to gently smooth and detangle—don’t use a regular brush.
  • Only use synthetic hair products.
  • Don't heat tools (such as straighteners or a curling iron) unless your wig is heat resistant.

Extra Tip:

  • It is easier to style your wig using a styling head or wig stand than on the head.
  • This way, you can see all sides of the wig.
  • Use T-pins to keep it in position while styling.

Easy Wig Care Tips

Taking care of your wig helps it last longer and look great. 
Here are some simple tips:

1. Washing:

  • Look at the care label or the instructions that accompany your wig.
  • Clean synthetic wigs after approximately 7 uses.
  • Wash human hair wigs after 4 or 5 uses.
  • Use Shampoo and conditioner specifically for wigs.
  • Let your wig air dry (don’t use a hairdryer).

2. Storage:

  • Put your wig on a mannequin head, pillowcase, or in a silk bag when you're not wearing it. This helps keep its shape and stops it from getting tangled.

3. Brushing:

  • Use a wig brush or a wide-toothed comb to gently untangle the hair.
  • Begin brushing at the ends and gradually work up to prevent pulling or damage.

Avoid Heat:

  • Don't use heat appliances (such as curling irons or straighteners) on man-made wigs—these will melt.
  • You can use heat tools on human hair wigs, but be careful! Always use a heat protectant spray first.

These simple care tips will keep your wig fresh and beautiful longer.

Day-to-day care

To make your wig last longer and look good, use this easy daily routine:

  • Wear a wig liner under your wig. It helps to protect your skin and prevent oils from getting onto the wig. This extends the life of your wig.
  • Your wig may dry out or tangle during the day.
  • Keep a small spray bottle of water with you.
  • Lightly spray the wig to add a bit of moisture and bring back its style.
  • If some hairs stick out around the front, use a small brush or comb to smooth them down.

Doing these little things each day will help your wig stay fresh, neat, and beautiful!

Final Overview

Whether you're a beginner to wigs or you've used them in the past, this guide provides you with everything you need to know to wear your wig confidently.

Learning about the various types of wigs, how to maintain them, and how to style them will make you look and feel wonderful.

By following these easy steps, you can enjoy your wig and try out new styles without trouble!
So go ahead, have fun with your wig, and enjoy changing up your look whenever you want!