How to Wear a Wig: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing, Styling, and Maintaining Your Wig
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
Wearing a wig can be a fun and exciting way to switch up your look. Whether you’re looking to try out a new hairstyle or cover up hair loss, wearing a wig can be a great option. However, it can be intimidating for first-time wig wearers to know how to properly wear and care for their wigs. As someone who has worn wigs for years, I’m here to share my tips and tricks for how to wear a wig with confidence.
The first step in successfully wearing a wig is choosing the right wig for you. When selecting a wig, consider the style, color, and length that will best suit your face shape and personal preferences. It’s also important to choose a wig made from high-quality materials that will look natural and be comfortable to wear. Once you’ve chosen your wig, it’s time to learn how to properly put it on and style it.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps for how to wear a wig, including how to prep your hair, put on your wig, and style it to look natural. I’ll also share some tips for caring for your wig to ensure it lasts as long as possible. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to confidently wear your wig and rock any look you desire.
Choosing the Right Wig
Choosing the right wig is essential to achieving a natural and flattering look. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect wig for you.
Wig Type
There are many types of wigs available, including synthetic wigs, human hair wigs, lace front wigs, and monofilament wigs. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing a wig.
Synthetic wigs are affordable and easy to care for, but they may not look as natural as human hair wigs. Human hair wigs are more expensive, but they offer a more natural look and feel. Lace front wigs have a natural-looking hairline, while monofilament wigs have a breathable cap that mimics the look of a natural scalp.
Wig Color
Choosing the right wig color is also important. If you want a natural look, choose a color that is close to your natural hair color. If you want to experiment with a new look, consider a color that complements your skin tone and eye color.
You can also consider highlights or lowlights to add dimension to your wig. If you’re unsure about which color to choose, consider consulting with a wig specialist or trying on different colors to see which one looks best on you.
Remember, the right wig can make all the difference in your confidence and appearance. Take the time to choose a wig that fits your needs and preferences, and you’ll be sure to love the results.
Preparing Your Hair
Before putting on a wig, it’s important to prepare your hair so that it lays flat and doesn’t interfere with the fit of the wig. Here are some tips for preparing your hair:
- Wash and dry your hair: Start by washing and drying your hair thoroughly. This will help ensure that your hair is clean and free of any oils or residue that could interfere with the fit of the wig.
- Brush your hair: Use a brush or comb to smooth out any tangles or knots in your hair. This will help your hair lay flat against your scalp and prevent any bumps or lumps from showing through the wig.
- Apply a wig cap: To help hold your hair in place and keep it secure, apply a wig cap over your hair. A mesh cap is usually stretchier and more comfortable than a dense, stocking-like cap. It’s also much easier to put pins into. The cap will need to be pinned to your hair at the temples and nape with bobby pins.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your hair is properly prepared for wearing a wig. This will not only help the wig fit better but also make it look more natural and realistic.
Putting on the Wig
Putting on a wig may seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve a flawless look. Here’s how I put on my wig:
Wig Cap
Before putting on the wig, it is essential to wear a wig cap. A wig cap helps to secure your hair and prevent it from falling out. It also helps to keep the wig in place and prevents it from slipping off. Here’s how I wear a wig cap:
- Gather your hair and put it in a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
- Put on the wig cap and adjust it so that it covers your hairline, ears, and nape of your neck.
- Tuck any stray hairs under the wig cap.
Positioning the Wig
Now that you have a wig cap on, it’s time to put on the wig. Here’s how I position my wig:
- Hold the wig at the sides with both hands.
- Tilt your head forward and place the front of the wig at your hairline.
- Slide the wig back over your head, adjusting it as you go. Make sure that the wig is sitting evenly on your head.
- Adjust the wig so that it covers the wig cap and your natural hairline.
- Tuck any stray hairs under the wig and adjust the wig until it feels secure.
It’s important to note that not all wigs fit the same way, and you may need to adjust the wig differently depending on the style and material. If the wig feels too loose, you can use wig clips or adhesive to secure it in place. If the wig feels too tight, you can adjust the straps or loosen the cap.
Styling Your Wig
Cutting and Trimming
When it comes to cutting or trimming your wig, it’s always best to leave it to a professional stylist. However, if you’re feeling confident, you can do it yourself with a sharp pair of scissors and a steady hand. Keep in mind that it’s always better to cut less than to cut too much, as you can always go back and trim more if needed.
Start by putting on your wig and using clips to secure any excess hair out of the way. Use a comb to section off the hair you want to trim and hold it between your fingers. Cut the hair a little at a time, being careful not to cut too much at once.
Caring for Your Wig
Proper care is essential to keep your wig looking its best. Always store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to help it maintain its shape. Use a wig brush or comb to gently detangle the hair, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots.
When washing your wig, use a mild shampoo and cool water. Gently massage the shampoo into the hair, being careful not to rub or twist the hair. Rinse thoroughly and blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head.
It’s important to avoid exposing your wig to heat sources, such as hair dryers or curling irons, as this can damage the hair fibers. If you need to style your wig, use a low heat setting and only style dry hair to avoid causing excess damage.
