Wearing a wig can completely transform your look, whether you're switching up your style or wearing one for practical reasons. However, knowing how to properly install a wig is key to achieving a flawless, natural appearance. In this guide, we’ll break down the step-by-step process for installing different types of wigs, including lace front wigs, full lace wigs, and glueless wigs.
No matter your experience level, this tutorial will help you master the basics and ensure your wig looks seamlessly beautiful.
Step 1: Prepare Your Natural Hair
Before installing a wig, it’s essential to prepare your natural hair to create a smooth, flat base. This ensures that your wig lays flat against your scalp and looks more natural.
For Short Hair
If your hair is short, you can simply brush it back or lay it flat using a lightweight gel to prevent any bumps under the wig.
For Long Hair
If your hair is long, braid it into cornrows or flat twists. Alternatively, you can pull your hair back into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Make sure the hair is as flat as possible to prevent lumps under the wig.
Pro Tip: Use a wig cap to cover your natural hair and keep everything in place. This will also help to protect your hair from friction under the wig.
Step 2: Clean and Prep Your Skin
For a secure fit, especially with lace front wigs, your skin needs to be clean and free of oils. Use a gentle cleanser to clean your forehead, hairline, and around your ears.
Pro Tip: If you have sensitive skin, consider applying a skin barrier to protect your skin from wig adhesive or glue.
Step 3: Secure Your Wig Cap
A wig cap provides a smooth surface for your wig and helps to keep your natural hair secure. Choose a cap that matches your skin tone for the most natural look, or use a nude-colored cap.
- Stretch the wig cap over your head, ensuring all your hair is tucked underneath.
- Position the cap so that it sits snugly on your hairline.
For lace front wigs, you may need to apply foundation or concealer to the cap along your hairline to make it blend in with your skin tone.
Step 4: Position Your Wig
Now it’s time to position your wig. Whether you're using a lace front or full lace wig, make sure the lace sits just slightly in front of your natural hairline for the most natural appearance.
- Gently place the wig on your head, starting at the front and working your way back.
- Adjust the wig so it fits snugly on your scalp, with the front hairline of the wig matching your natural hairline.
Pro Tip: Most wigs come with adjustable straps and combs inside the cap. Use these to ensure the wig fits securely.
Step 5: Trim the Lace
For lace front or full lace wigs, trimming the lace is a crucial step. Here’s how to do it:
- Pull the lace of the wig forward over your forehead.
- Use sharp, small scissors to trim the lace as close to your hairline as possible.
- Cut slowly in small sections to avoid trimming too much lace at once.
Pro Tip: Make sure to leave a small amount of lace (about 1-2 mm) to avoid cutting too close to the hairline.
Step 6: Secure the Wig
For Lace Front or Full Lace Wigs
If you’re using a lace wig, it’s time to apply the adhesive or wig glue to secure it:
- Apply wig adhesive or glue along your hairline, where the lace will sit.
- Let the glue become tacky for about 30 seconds.
- Carefully press the lace into the glue, starting at the center of your forehead and working outwards toward your temples.
Use the end of a rat-tail comb to press the lace firmly onto the adhesive, ensuring a tight bond without getting glue on the hair itself.
For Glueless Wigs
If you're using a glueless wig, no adhesive is needed. Simply adjust the combs and straps inside the wig for a secure, comfortable fit.
Step 7: Blend the Wig with Your Skin
To make your wig look as natural as possible, you’ll want to blend the hairline with your skin.
- Apply a small amount of foundation or concealer along the edges of the lace to match your skin tone.
- Lightly brush the makeup into the lace to seamlessly blend the wig into your scalp.
Pro Tip: Use translucent powder to set the foundation, ensuring it stays in place throughout the day.
Step 8: Style Your Wig
Once the wig is securely in place, it’s time to style it! You can use a flat iron or curling wand on human hair wigs to achieve your desired look. If you're going for a sleek, straight look, use a flat iron to smooth out any kinks.
Pro Tip: For baby hairs, you can carefully pluck a few strands from the front of the wig and use a small amount of gel to style them, giving your wig a more natural appearance.
Step 9: Final Touches
After your wig is installed and styled, make sure everything is securely in place. Double-check that the wig feels comfortable and isn't shifting during movement.
Pro Tip: Carry a wig brush with you throughout the day to keep your wig smooth and tangle-free.