How to Put on a Wig (With Expert Tips)

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Learn how to install your wig securely & seamlessly
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Wigs are fun (and sometimes necessary) accessories. Whether you want to spice up your style for a special occasion or wear a wig every day, wig application can be a little tricky at first. Keep reading to learn how to apply a wig by following simple steps. Our guide includes everything from preparation to application , and tips from a professional hairstylist, beauty expert, and wig augmentation specialist on maintaining your wig so you can always look your best.

How to Put a Wig On

  1. Pull your hair back and clean the skin around your hairline.
  2. Put a wig cap on.
  3. Apply wig adhesive tape or glue around your hairline.
  4. Place the wig on your head and position it where you want it.
  5. Press the wig down on the adhesive to secure it in place.
  6. Style the wig, as desired.
Section 1 of 5:

Prepping for Wig Installation

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  1. Before you can apply the wig, you need to make sure the wig hairs won't get caught in the glue or adhesive tape. Make sure you pull all of the wig hair into a ponytail or clip back the wig hair that is closest to the edge if the wig is very short.
    • If you are working with a full or half lace wig, cut the lace to match your hairline. Make sure you don't cut too much off and disrupt the natural hairline of the wig. Leave a little bit on the edge so it can be glued to your head in a natural-looking way.
    • Don't worry about styling your wig now. It may get messed up during the application process. You will be able to style your wig after the application.
  2. Doing this will ensure your hair will not make bumps or uneven areas once you have your wig on. Whether you have long or short hair, you need to ensure that all of your natural hair is pulled back from your hairline so it won't be visible under the wig. More details follow here, depending on your hair length:
    • No Hair: Make sure your scalp is clean before applying a wig cap or wig tape . Shave off any remaining hairs.
    • Short Hair: Comb and pin your clean hair away from your face and hairline using bobby pins . You can also use a stretchy cloth headband to push your hair away from your hairline.
    • Medium Hair: Detangle your hair with a comb and apply hair gel so it stays flat. Pin your hair back with pin curls or braids and secure them with bobby pins.
    • Long Hair: Braid your hair into tight French braids, cornrows, or tight, flat pin curls. Secure them to your head using bobby pins.
      • For long-haired people, professional hairstylist Patrick Evan suggests “separating the hair into two pieces and twisting them, crossing the two pieces behind your head. Attach them across the top and bottom with bobby pins.” [1]
      • To put a wig on when you have long hair , you can also form small 1 inch (2.5 cm) twists or curls, and pin them all around your hair. Grab a 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide portion of your hair and twist it, wrapping the end around your forefinger. Curl the strand down toward your head, making a 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide circle with your hair. Once all the hair is in the curl, pin it with two bobby pins, making an X over the curl. Doing this with all of your hair will give you a smooth surface on which to apply your wig.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Apply a Wig
    Wipe the skin closest to your hairline with a cotton pad dipped in alcohol. Doing this removes any access oils and impurities from your skin, which will help the glue or wig tape stick better to your skin. Next, apply a scalp protector , which can be a spray, gel, or cream, to the areas around your scalp. This will protect this sensitive skin from irritation and damage from the glue or adhesive tape.
    • Even if you don't have head hair and have skipped the previous step, make sure you prepare your skin.
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Section 2 of 5:

Applying the Wig

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  1. Gently stretch the cap over your head and line it up perfectly with your hairline, making sure all of your hair is underneath it. After you put on your wig cap , secure it in place with a few bobby pins around the outer edges.
    • You can use either a net wig cap or a skin-toned nylon wig cap . The net cap breathes a little more, while the skin-toned cap mimics the color of your scalp under your wig.
    • Hair augmentation specialist Nikia Londy suggests “Using a wig grip band . This can be worn underneath your wig and attached to it using double-sided velcro material that keeps it secure. A wig cap will prevent it from moving around or falling. Double-sided tape can be applied to prevent your wig from moving around, and you can use some metal wig clips to clip into the sides of the wig and secure it in place.” [2]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Apply a Wig
    For the wig glue, dip a small makeup brush into the glue and apply a thin layer along your hairline. Let it dry. This may take a few minutes. You’ll know when it’s dry because the glue is no longer thin and wet, but is instead sticky and tacky.
    • If you're using adhesive tape, gently place double-sided strips along your hairline, securing them to your skin. Leave a small space between each strip of tape. This will ensure that moisture can escape when you sweat, and won't compromise an entire section of tape. It isn’t necessary to let the tape dry. [3]
    • Beauty expert Joseph Harwood suggests using adhesives “that are water soluble , like hair gels that are strong enough to help stick the lace onto your head.” [4]
    • To ensure that the wig and wig cap don't slip, apply the glue or tape slightly on the edge of the cap. This will adhere the wig, the cap, and your skin together, making it more stable.
    • You don't have to apply glue or tape to your entire scalp line, but make sure you place some at the front of the forehead and on your temples so the wig looks natural. You can then choose any other areas that you think need it and place the adhesives there.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Apply a Wig
    Hold your finger at the point on the wig that will rest at the center of your forehead. Put it over your head and gently lay it down on your scalp, while centering your finger on your forehead. Then, gently pull the rest of the wig over your head. Make sure you keep the sides away from the adhesive as much as possible so it doesn't stick before you're ready.
    • Don't bend over and put your wig on upside down. This will give your wig an uncentered look and might stick parts of the hair to the adhesive material before you're ready.
    • If you are putting a wig on for the first time, allow enough time to adjust the wig before you need to leave the house. It may take practice to get it perfect.
    • The 4-finger rule means figuring out how far down the wig cap should sit. To use, place your pinky finger at the top part of your eyebrow. Then, count four fingers up. Your wig cap should go wherever your index finger ends. [5]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Apply a Wig
    Regardless of the type of adhesive you use, you need to secure the wig to your head. Once you have your wig where you want it, use a fine-toothed comb to gently press down the front edges of the wig. If you're using a lace wig, make sure the lace areas rest smoothly against your head to create a natural hairline and make the wig look real .
    • Once the front half of your wig is secure, wait 15 minutes for it to set. Then follow the same steps as the front on the back portion. Wait 15 more minutes before you style to ensure the wig is fully secure.
    • You can also use bobby pins to make your wig feel more secure. Place bobby pins through the top of your wig, hooking them into your wig cap and hair underneath. Do this more towards the middle to ensure they aren't visible. [6]
    • Once it's in place, check to see if there's any glue residue visible under the wig. If there is, remove it by gently rubbing the area with a cotton pad dipped in an alcohol solution.
    • If you don't get the placement of your wig right on the first try, gently run a cotton swab dipped in alcohol around the area to detach it from your skin. Reposition your wig and reapply.
  5. Once your wig is completely secure, you are free to style your hair as you wish. You can be as fun and adventurous as you want. You can braid or curl your wig , or accessorize to your heart's content. To style a synthetic wig , avoid heating the strands because they may melt or get damaged. [7]
    • You can have your wig cut into a style that fits your face before you apply it. This will make the wig feel more like you and appear more natural on your head.
    • Remember that less is always better. Whether your wig is made of human hair, animal hair, or synthetic materials, don't use too much product because it leaves a residue on your wig.
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Section 3 of 5:

Tips on Maintaining a Wig

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  1. 1
    Remove the wig carefully when you're finished wearing it. Avoid forcefully pulling the wig off so you don’t damage it in any way. If your adhesive is sticking, use an appropriate adhesive remover to loosen it before taking it off. [8]
  2. 2
    Regularly wash your wig and your scalp to maintain hygiene. For a synthetic wig, use wig-specific shampoo and conditioner , or a mild soap or cleanser. It’s a good idea to wash your synthetic wig every 6-10 wears, or when you notice it looking dull or dirty. For human-hair wigs, wash the wig approximately every 1-2 weeks. Use a gentle shampoo and leave-in conditioner, if possible. [9]
  3. 3
    Store the wig properly to maintain its shape. When you’re not wearing the wig , keep it on a wig stand or wig head block so it’s in a safe place. Keep the wig in a cool, dry place that is free from harsh or direct sunlight. [10]
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Section 4 of 5:

How to Choose a Wig Type

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  1. Choose between full lace , partial/front lace , or non-lace wigs . There are 3 main materials wigs can be made out of: human hair, animal hair, and synthetic hair. Each wig type has its pros and cons, so make sure you buy the wig that is best for you.
    • The full lace wig is made with a lace mesh cap and the hair sewn into it throughout. It gives you a natural-looking hairline, is usually made with human or animal hair, and is easier to style because it can be parted anywhere. It also allows for more comfort because it breathes more.
      • The downside is that these wigs are often more expensive than other types of wigs. They can also get damaged more easily. [11]
    • The front or partial lace wig is made with lace mesh at the front instead of all the way around. It gives you a natural-looking hairline on your forehead, but it is made of more durable materials. These wigs can be made of human, horse, Brazilian, or synthetic hair and are cheaper than full lace wigs.
      • The downside is that these wigs are not as natural-looking as full lace and can be harder to style because of the way the wig is made.
    • Non-lace wigs are made of materials such as nylon mesh. These wigs can be made with any type of hair material, are more durable, and are much less expensive than other wigs. The main downside is that these wigs don't look as realistic as other wigs and don't blend into the hairline as easily as lace wigs. [12]
Section 5 of 5:

How to Apply a Wig FAQs

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  1. 1
    Do you need a wig cap to wear a wig? The decision to wear a wig cap depends on your situation and what works best for you. Wearing a wig cap is a good idea when you’re experiencing partial or full hair loss, as a cap can help the wig stay in place and prevent both discomfort and an itchy scalp. Wig caps can sometimes feel too hot or irritate if you have sensitive skin. [13]
  2. 2
    How do you keep a wig from slipping? Wearing a wig cap and using adhesive tape and/or bobby pins can help secure a wig so it doesn’t slip. Using these accessories can help prevent the friction that often causes a wig to come loose or slip. Elastic grip bands worn under the wig can do extra work to keep the wig in place. Other ideas include sewing hair clips into the wig or spraying it with hairspray to add volume and firmness. [14]
  3. 3
    How long does it take to get used to a wig? It usually takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get used to a wig. Wearing a wig may feel strange at first, and can even feel warm, itchy, or uncomfortable to some. Correct fit is important, as is wearing the wig regularly to get used to it. Once you have a well-fitting wig, be patient as you get used to how it feels on your head. [15]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    My wig leaves a gap on my forehead. Where do I buy the wig glue?
    Community Answer
    You can purchase wig glue online or at any beauty supply store. You also can purchase double-sided tape made for use with wigs.
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  • Question
    Can synthetic wigs be put in buns?
    Community Answer
    Synthetic and natural wigs can be put in buns. Keep in mind that when a bun is worn for a length of time, it can cause kinks and knots.
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  • Question
    Should I put a mesh cap wig behind my ears or over them?
    Community Answer
    Behind. If you put it over, people may see it and it will become uncomfortable after a while.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Bobby pins/hair clips
      • Wig cap
      • Scalp protector
      • Wig glue or wig adhesive tape
      • Makeup brush
      • Wig
      • Fine-tooth comb

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      References

      1. ↑ Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview. 17 January 2019.
      2. ↑ Nikia Londy. Hair Augmentation Specialist. Expert Interview. 7 October 2021.
      3. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/wigs/every-day-tips
      4. ↑ Joseph Harwood. Beauty, DEI & Social Media Expert. Expert Interview. 22 September 2022.
      5. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/how-to-install-a-wig.html
      6. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/wigs/human-hair
      7. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/hair-loss/wigs/human-hair
      8. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/wig-maintenance-and-styling-tips
      9. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wig-care
      1. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/wig-maintenance-and-styling-tips
      2. ↑ https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/hair-skin-nails/hair-loss/choosing-and-wearing-wig.html
      3. ↑ https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/hair-skin-nails/hair-loss/choosing-and-wearing-wig.html
      4. ↑ https://www.styleseat.com/blog/do-you-need-a-wig-cap-to-wear-a-wig/
      5. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a34288244/how-to-put-on-a-wig/
      6. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a34288244/how-to-put-on-a-wig/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before you apply a wig, smooth back any natural hair that you have so it won’t be visible under the wig and apply a wig cap. Apply wig adhesive around your hairline and let it dry until it’s tacky, then place the wig on your head and use a fine-toothed comb to gently press the front edges of the wig into the adhesive. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then repeat with the back of the wig. Style as desired and enjoy your new look! To learn how to protect your skin from irritation due to the adhesive, read on!

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        Mar 23, 2017

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