The Ultimate Guide: How to Apply a Wig Like a Pro
Wigs have become an incredibly versatile and popular accessory, offering a quick and easy way to transform your look, experiment with different hairstyles, or conceal hair loss. Whether you’re a seasoned wig wearer or a complete beginner, mastering the art of wig application is key to achieving a natural, comfortable, and secure fit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from prepping your natural hair to styling your wig for a flawless finish.
## Why Learn to Apply a Wig Properly?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why proper wig application matters:
* **Natural Appearance:** A well-applied wig blends seamlessly with your hairline and looks incredibly realistic.
* **Comfort:** A secure and snug fit prevents slippage and discomfort, allowing you to wear your wig with confidence all day long.
* **Security:** Proper application ensures that your wig stays in place, even during windy conditions or active movement.
* **Longevity of Wig:** Avoiding stress on the wig cap and hair fibers helps prolong the life of your wig.
* **Scalp Health:** Preparing your natural hair properly protects your scalp from irritation and damage.
## Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials:
* **Wig:** Choose a wig that suits your desired style, hair type, and color. Consider the cap construction (lace front, monofilament, etc.) based on your preferences.
* **Wig Cap (or Wig Liner):** This thin, stretchy cap goes over your natural hair to create a smooth, even surface for the wig. Choose a color that matches your skin tone or wig color.
* **Wig Grip (Optional):** A velvet or silicone headband that sits under the wig to provide extra security and prevent slippage. This is especially helpful for those with little or no natural hair.
* **Scissors:** For trimming lace (if applicable) and flyaway hairs.
* **Comb or Brush:** A wide-tooth comb or wig brush to detangle and style your wig.
* **Hair Clips or Pins:** To secure your natural hair before putting on the wig cap.
* **Adjustable Wig Stand:** To store and style your wig when not in use.
* **Alcohol or Wig Adhesive Remover:** To clean your forehead before applying adhesive and to remove adhesive residue after wearing your wig.
* **Cotton Pads or Swabs:** For applying alcohol and adhesive remover.
* **Wig Glue or Adhesive (Optional):** For extra security, especially for lace front wigs. Choose a waterproof, skin-safe adhesive specifically designed for wigs.
* **Hair Dryer (Optional):** To speed up the drying process of wig glue.
* **Edge Control (Optional):** To blend the wig hairline with your natural hairline (if applicable).
* **Concealer or Foundation (Optional):** To further blend the lace front with your skin tone.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Applying a Wig
Now, let’s get to the actual application process. Follow these steps carefully for a flawless wig application:
**1. Prepare Your Natural Hair**
This is a crucial step to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The goal is to create a flat, smooth surface under the wig cap.
* **Cleanse and Condition:** Start with clean, dry hair. Wash and condition your hair thoroughly to remove any product buildup or excess oils. This will prevent itching and irritation under the wig.
* **Braid or Flat Twist (Long Hair):** If you have long hair, divide it into small sections and braid or flat twist each section close to your scalp. Secure the ends with small elastics. The flatter the braids or twists, the more natural your wig will look.
* **Wrap (Short to Medium Hair):** For shorter hair, you can wrap it around your head and secure it with hairpins. Ensure that the wrap is smooth and even.
* **Use Gel or Holding Spray (Optional):** For extra hold, you can apply a small amount of gel or holding spray to keep your hair in place.
* **Consider a Wig Cap Liner:** An alternative to braiding is to use a wig cap liner, often made of silk or satin, worn directly against the scalp under the wig cap to prevent itching and promote hair health.
**2. Apply the Wig Cap**
The wig cap serves as a barrier between your natural hair and the wig, creating a smooth surface and preventing slippage.
* **Choose the Right Size:** Ensure that the wig cap fits snugly but not too tightly. A cap that’s too tight can cause discomfort and headaches.
* **Stretch the Wig Cap:** Gently stretch the wig cap and place it over your hairline, pulling it back until it covers all of your natural hair. Make sure all your hair is tucked securely under the cap.
* **Adjust the Position:** Adjust the position of the wig cap until it sits comfortably on your head and covers your entire hairline. The edge of the cap should be about an inch or two behind your natural hairline.
* **Secure the Cap (Optional):** For extra security, you can use bobby pins or wig clips to secure the wig cap around the edges.
* **Cut off Excess Cap (Optional):** If you have excess wig cap material around your face, carefully trim it with scissors, leaving a small amount to blend with your skin.
* **Blend the Cap (Optional):** Use concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone to blend the edge of the wig cap with your forehead. This will create a more natural-looking hairline.
**3. Prepare the Wig**
Before applying the wig, take some time to prepare it for a flawless finish.
* **Remove the Wig from the Packaging:** Carefully remove the wig from its packaging and gently shake it to loosen the fibers.
* **Detangle the Wig:** Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush to gently detangle the wig, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Be careful not to pull or snag the fibers.
* **Trim the Lace Front (If Applicable):** If you have a lace front wig, you’ll need to trim the excess lace along the hairline. This is a crucial step for achieving a natural-looking hairline. Use sharp scissors to carefully trim the lace, following the natural contours of the hairline. Leave about 1/4 inch of lace to blend with your skin.
* **Zigzag Cut:** Instead of cutting the lace straight across, try a zigzag pattern to create a more natural and less harsh hairline. This will help the lace disappear into your scalp more effectively.
* **Thin the Lace:** Use tweezers to pluck some of the knots along the hairline of the lace front. This will make the hairline appear thinner and more realistic. Be careful not to over-pluck, as this can damage the lace.
* **Pluck the Hairline (Optional):** For an even more natural-looking hairline, you can use tweezers to pluck some of the hairs along the hairline. This will create a more irregular and realistic hairline. Be careful not to over-pluck, as this can create bald spots.
* **Style the Wig (Optional):** If desired, you can style the wig before applying it. Use heat-styling tools specifically designed for synthetic or human hair wigs, and always use a heat protectant spray. Consider setting the style on a wig stand overnight to help it hold its shape.
**4. Apply the Wig**
Now for the main event! This is where you carefully position and secure the wig on your head.
* **Position the Wig:** Hold the wig by the ear tabs and carefully align the front of the wig with your natural hairline. Gently slide the wig over your head, starting from the front and working your way back.
* **Adjust the Position:** Adjust the position of the wig until it sits comfortably and securely on your head. The hairline of the wig should align with your natural hairline or slightly behind it, depending on your preference.
* **Check the Ear Tabs:** Make sure the ear tabs are positioned correctly in front of your ears. These tabs help to secure the wig and prevent it from shifting.
* **Adjust the Straps (If Applicable):** Most wigs have adjustable straps at the back that allow you to customize the fit. Adjust the straps until the wig feels snug and secure but not too tight.
* **Use Wig Glue or Adhesive (Optional):** For extra security, especially for lace front wigs, you can use wig glue or adhesive. Apply a thin layer of adhesive along your hairline, being careful to avoid getting it in your hair. Allow the adhesive to become tacky (usually a few seconds to a minute), then carefully position the lace front of the wig onto the adhesive. Press gently to secure the lace in place.
* **Test the Adhesive:** Before applying adhesive to your entire hairline, test a small area of your skin to check for any allergic reactions.
* **Use a Cotton Swab:** Use a cotton swab to apply the adhesive precisely along your hairline.
* **Avoid Getting Adhesive in Your Hair:** Be careful not to get adhesive in your natural hair, as it can be difficult to remove.
* **Use a Hair Dryer:** Use a hair dryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process of the wig glue.
* **Secure with Wig Clips or Combs (If Applicable):** Some wigs have built-in wig clips or combs that can be attached to your natural hair for extra security. Secure these clips or combs around the edges of the wig cap.
**5. Blend and Style the Wig**
This final step is all about making your wig look as natural and seamless as possible.
* **Blend the Hairline:** Use a comb or brush to blend the wig hairline with your natural hairline (if applicable). You can also use edge control to smooth down any flyaway hairs and create a more seamless blend.
* **Use Concealer or Foundation:** If the lace front of the wig is not blending seamlessly with your skin tone, you can use concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone to further blend the lace. Apply the concealer or foundation along the part and hairline of the wig, blending it outwards.
* **Customize the Part:** If desired, you can customize the part of the wig to your liking. Use a comb to create a part in the desired location, and then use a hair dryer or styling iron to set the part in place.
* **Style the Wig:** Style the wig as desired, using heat-styling tools specifically designed for synthetic or human hair wigs. Use a heat protectant spray to protect the fibers from damage. You can curl, straighten, or add volume to the wig to create your desired look.
* **Trim and Shape:** If needed, you can trim and shape the wig to better suit your face shape and style. Use sharp scissors to carefully trim the wig, and be sure to take your time and avoid cutting too much at once.
* **Add Accessories:** Add accessories such as headbands, scarves, or clips to further personalize your wig style.
## Tips for a Natural-Looking Wig Application
Here are some additional tips to help you achieve a natural-looking wig application:
* **Choose the Right Wig Cap Color:** Select a wig cap color that closely matches your skin tone. This will help to camouflage the cap under the wig, especially around the hairline.
* **Invest in a High-Quality Wig:** While more expensive, a high-quality wig will often look more natural and last longer than a cheaper wig. Look for wigs with realistic hairlines, natural-looking fibers, and comfortable cap constructions.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Don’t be discouraged if your first wig application isn’t perfect. With practice, you’ll become more skilled at applying wigs and achieving a natural-looking result.
* **Experiment with Different Styles:** Wigs are a great way to experiment with different hairstyles and colors without committing to a permanent change. Try different styles to find what looks best on you.
* **Consider a Custom Wig:** For the most natural-looking and comfortable fit, consider investing in a custom wig. Custom wigs are made to order, ensuring a perfect fit and personalized style.
* **Take Care of Your Wig:** Proper wig care is essential for extending the life of your wig and keeping it looking its best. Wash your wig regularly, store it properly on a wig stand, and avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive heat.
## Troubleshooting Common Wig Application Problems
Even with careful application, you may encounter some common problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
* **Wig Slipping:** If your wig is slipping, make sure the wig cap is secure and the adjustable straps are tightened. You can also use a wig grip or wig glue for extra security.
* **Uncomfortable Fit:** If your wig feels uncomfortable, make sure the wig cap isn’t too tight and the adjustable straps are properly adjusted. You may also need to try a different wig cap size or style.
* **Unnatural Hairline:** If the wig hairline looks unnatural, try blending the lace front with concealer or foundation, plucking the hairline, or trimming the lace further.
* **Frizzy or Tangled Hair:** If the wig hair is frizzy or tangled, use a wig brush or comb to gently detangle the fibers. You can also use a wig-specific detangling spray or conditioner.
* **Itchy Scalp:** An itchy scalp can be caused by product buildup, dryness, or an allergic reaction to the wig cap material. Try washing your hair and wig cap regularly, using a hypoallergenic wig cap, or consulting a dermatologist.
## Removing Your Wig
Removing your wig properly is as important as applying it correctly.
* **Remove Wig Glue/Adhesive:** If you used wig glue or adhesive, use a wig adhesive remover to gently loosen the adhesive. Apply the remover to the hairline and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, gently peel the lace front away from your skin.
* **Carefully Lift the Wig:** Gently lift the wig from the back of your head and slowly pull it forward, being careful not to tug or pull on your natural hair.
* **Remove the Wig Cap:** Remove the wig cap carefully, taking care not to pull on your natural hair.
* **Cleanse Your Scalp:** After removing the wig, cleanse your scalp with a gentle shampoo to remove any residue from the wig cap or adhesive.
* **Moisturize Your Scalp:** Apply a moisturizer to your scalp to hydrate it and prevent dryness.
* **Store Your Wig Properly:** Store your wig on a wig stand or in a wig box to maintain its shape and prevent tangling.
## Conclusion
Applying a wig may seem daunting at first, but with practice and the right techniques, you can achieve a flawless and natural-looking result. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to confidently rock your wig and enjoy the versatility and convenience it offers. Remember to prioritize comfort, security, and proper care to ensure a positive wig-wearing experience. Now go out there and slay!