How To Put On A Wig: Expert Tips For A Natural Look
Hey there, wig enthusiasts! Ever wondered how to perfectly put on a wig so it looks natural and stays put all day? You're in the right place! Putting on a wig can seem daunting at first, but with the right techniques and a little practice, you'll be rocking flawless hair in no time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from prepping your natural hair to securing your wig like a pro. So, let's dive in and get you looking fabulous!
Prepping Your Natural Hair: The Foundation for Wig Success
Before you even think about putting on your wig, prepping your natural hair is crucial. This step not only ensures a smooth and flat base for your wig but also protects your natural hair from damage. Think of it as laying the perfect foundation for a flawless hairstyle. If you skip this step, you might end up with a bulky, uneven look, and nobody wants that, right? Let's get into the nitty-gritty of prepping your hair like a pro.
Braiding or Flattening Your Hair
The first step in prepping your hair is to braid it or flatten it as much as possible. This helps to create a smooth surface under the wig, preventing any bumps or bulges. For those with long or thick hair, braiding is often the best option. You can do cornrows, which are close to the scalp and provide a very flat base, or simple braids if you prefer. If your hair is shorter or thinner, you might opt for flattening it using gel or hairspray. The key is to distribute your hair evenly so that it doesn't create any unevenness under the wig.
When braiding, make sure the braids are tight but not too tight that they cause discomfort or tension on your scalp. Part your hair into sections and braid each section close to the scalp. Secure the ends of the braids with small, clear elastics. If you're using gel or hairspray to flatten your hair, apply the product evenly and use a fine-tooth comb to smooth it down. You can also use a wig cap over your flattened hair for extra security and smoothness.
Using a Wig Cap: Your Scalp's Best Friend
Speaking of wig caps, using a wig cap is an essential part of the wig application process. A wig cap serves several important purposes. First, it acts as a barrier between your natural hair and the wig, protecting both. It prevents friction and potential damage to your hair while also keeping your wig clean and fresh. Second, it helps to create a smooth surface, making it easier to put on the wig and ensuring a natural look. Third, it absorbs sweat and oil, keeping your scalp comfortable and preventing the wig from slipping.
Wig caps come in various materials, such as nylon, mesh, and silicone. Nylon wig caps are lightweight and breathable, making them a popular choice for everyday wear. Mesh wig caps are also breathable and offer a bit more grip, which is great for active individuals. Silicone wig caps are ideal for those with sensitive scalps, as they provide a smooth and comfortable barrier. Choose a wig cap that matches your skin tone or is slightly lighter, as this will make it less visible under the wig.
To put on a wig cap, stretch it open and place it over your hairline, pulling it back to cover all of your hair. Make sure the edges of the cap are smooth and flat against your skin. If you have any stray hairs, tuck them under the cap. You can use bobby pins to secure the cap in place if needed. The goal is to create a snug and seamless base for your wig.
Cleaning Your Scalp: A Healthy Foundation
Before putting on your wig cap, it's a good idea to clean your scalp. This helps to remove any excess oil, dirt, or product buildup that can cause irritation or itching. A clean scalp is a healthy scalp, and it's essential for maintaining the overall health of your hair and skin. You can use a gentle cleanser or witch hazel on a cotton pad to wipe your scalp clean. Pay special attention to your hairline, as this area tends to accumulate the most buildup.
Cleaning your scalp not only promotes hygiene but also helps to prevent the wig from slipping. Excess oil can make the wig slide around, which can be uncomfortable and lead to a less secure fit. By ensuring your scalp is clean and dry, you're creating a better foundation for the wig to grip onto.
Securing Stray Hairs: The Final Touch
Finally, make sure to secure any stray hairs before putting on your wig. This includes baby hairs, flyaways, and any other loose strands that might peek out from under the wig. You can use a small amount of hair gel or hairspray to smooth these hairs down and keep them in place. Alternatively, you can use a wide headband or an elastic band to hold the hairs back.
Securing stray hairs is important for achieving a natural-looking hairline. If these hairs are left loose, they can create an uneven or bulky appearance under the wig. By taking the time to smooth them down and secure them, you'll ensure a seamless and polished look.
Putting on the Wig: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your natural hair is prepped, it's time for the main event: putting on the wig. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get a secure, comfortable, and natural-looking fit. Don't worry, it's easier than it looks! With a little practice, you'll be able to put on your wig like a seasoned pro. Let's get started!
Positioning the Wig: Front and Center
The first step in putting on your wig is to position it correctly. Start by holding the wig at the front and gently sliding it over your head, aligning the front edge with your natural hairline. The goal is to position the wig so that it sits comfortably and securely on your head, without being too far forward or too far back. Pay close attention to the placement around your ears and temples, as these areas can affect the overall fit and appearance of the wig.
When positioning the wig, make sure the ear tabs are aligned with your ears. These tabs are usually located on the inside of the wig and help to ensure a proper fit. If the wig feels too tight or too loose, you can adjust the straps or elastic bands inside the wig to customize the fit. It's important to take your time during this step and make sure the wig is positioned exactly where you want it before securing it in place.
Securing the Wig: Combs, Clips, and Straps, Oh My!
Once the wig is positioned correctly, it's time to secure it. Most wigs come with built-in combs, clips, and adjustable straps to help you achieve a secure fit. These features are designed to keep the wig in place, even during active movements. Understanding how to use these features is key to a comfortable and worry-free wig-wearing experience.
Start by using the combs or clips located inside the wig. These are usually positioned at the front, sides, and back of the wig. Gently slide the combs into your natural hair or wig cap, ensuring they grip securely. If your wig has clips, open them and attach them to your hair or wig cap. The clips should snap shut, providing a firm hold. Next, adjust the straps at the back of the wig to customize the fit. These straps usually have hooks or Velcro closures that allow you to tighten or loosen the wig as needed. Make sure the wig feels snug but not too tight, as this can cause discomfort.
For extra security, you can also use wig glue or adhesive tape. These products are designed to create a strong bond between the wig and your skin, providing a long-lasting hold. If you choose to use wig glue or tape, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to your hairline and the front edge of the wig cap, and then gently press the wig into place. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before styling or wearing the wig.
Checking the Hairline: Natural is Key
After securing the wig, check the hairline. This is one of the most important steps in achieving a natural look. The hairline should blend seamlessly with your skin, without any obvious gaps or bulges. If the hairline looks too harsh or unnatural, you can make some adjustments to soften the appearance.
One trick for creating a natural-looking hairline is to use a pair of tweezers to pluck a few hairs along the front edge of the wig. This will create a more irregular and realistic hairline. You can also use a concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone to blend the hairline with your forehead. Apply a small amount of product along the hairline and blend it outwards using a makeup sponge or brush. This will help to create a seamless transition between the wig and your skin.
Another tip for a natural-looking hairline is to use a lace-front wig. These wigs have a sheer lace panel at the front that mimics the appearance of a natural hairline. The lace can be trimmed to fit your hairline perfectly, and the hairs can be styled to blend in with your natural hair. Lace-front wigs are a popular choice for those who want a realistic and undetectable look.
Adjusting and Styling: The Finishing Touches
Once the wig is securely in place and the hairline looks natural, it's time for the final adjustments and styling. This is where you can really make the wig your own and create a look that suits your personal style. Take a step back and assess the overall appearance of the wig. Does it sit evenly on your head? Are there any areas that need to be adjusted? Now is the time to make any necessary changes.
Start by checking the part. If the part looks too wide or unnatural, you can use a comb or your fingers to adjust it. You can also use a hairdryer or styling iron to train the hair to lie in the direction you want. Next, check the volume and shape of the wig. If the wig looks too flat, you can use a teasing comb or styling products to add volume. If the wig looks too bulky, you can thin it out by cutting or layering the hair.
Styling your wig is similar to styling your natural hair. You can use heat tools, such as curling irons and straighteners, to create different looks. However, it's important to use heat protectant products to prevent damage to the wig fibers. You can also use styling products, such as hairspray, mousse, and gel, to hold your style in place. Experiment with different styles and techniques until you find a look that you love.
Caring for Your Wig: Keeping it Fabulous
Just like your natural hair, caring for your wig is essential for maintaining its beauty and longevity. Proper care will not only keep your wig looking fabulous but also extend its lifespan, saving you money in the long run. Think of your wig as an investment, and treat it with the care it deserves. Let's explore the best practices for wig care so you can keep your wig looking its best.
Washing Your Wig: Gentle Cleansing
Washing your wig is a crucial part of wig maintenance. Over time, wigs can accumulate dirt, oil, and product buildup, which can make them look dull and lifeless. Washing your wig regularly will keep it clean, fresh, and looking its best. However, it's important to wash your wig gently and with the right products to avoid damaging the fibers.
Start by detangling your wig using a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Gently brush through the hair, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots. This will remove any knots or tangles and make it easier to wash the wig. Next, fill a basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of wig shampoo. Wig shampoo is specially formulated to be gentle on synthetic and human hair wigs, so it's important to use this type of shampoo instead of regular shampoo.
Submerge the wig in the water and gently swish it around to distribute the shampoo. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the wig, as this can damage the fibers. Let the wig soak for a few minutes, and then rinse it thoroughly with cool water until all the shampoo is gone. Gently squeeze out any excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting the wig.
Conditioning Your Wig: Hydration is Key
After washing your wig, conditioning it is essential for restoring moisture and preventing dryness. Just like your natural hair, wigs can become dry and brittle over time, especially if they are made of synthetic fibers. Conditioning your wig will keep it soft, smooth, and manageable. Use a wig conditioner that is specifically designed for synthetic or human hair wigs.
Apply a small amount of wig conditioner to the wig, focusing on the ends and avoiding the roots. Gently comb the conditioner through the hair, making sure to distribute it evenly. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, and then rinse it thoroughly with cool water. Gently squeeze out any excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting the wig.
Drying Your Wig: Air Drying is Best
When it comes to drying your wig, air drying is the best option. Heat can damage the fibers of synthetic wigs, so it's important to avoid using a hairdryer or other heat styling tools. Instead, gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water, and then place it on a wig stand or a towel-lined surface to air dry. This allows the wig to dry naturally without being exposed to heat.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to speed up the drying process. However, be sure to hold the hairdryer at a distance and avoid concentrating the heat on any one area. You can also use a wig-drying rack, which is designed to allow air to circulate around the wig and dry it evenly.
Storing Your Wig: Proper Storage Matters
Properly storing your wig is crucial for maintaining its shape and preventing tangles. When you're not wearing your wig, it's important to store it in a way that protects it from dust, sunlight, and other environmental factors. The best way to store your wig is on a wig stand or a mannequin head. This will help the wig retain its shape and prevent the fibers from becoming tangled or matted.
If you don't have a wig stand or a mannequin head, you can store your wig in its original packaging or in a plastic bag. Make sure the wig is clean and dry before storing it, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it. Store the wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the color of the wig and damage the fibers.
Detangling Your Wig: Tangle-Free Tresses
Detangling your wig is an essential part of wig care. Wigs, especially those with long hair, can become tangled and matted over time. Detangling your wig regularly will keep it looking smooth and manageable. Use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush to gently detangle the hair, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots.
If you encounter any knots or tangles, don't try to force them out. Instead, use a detangling spray or a leave-in conditioner to help loosen the tangles. Gently work the comb or brush through the knots, using small, gentle strokes. Be patient and take your time, as rushing the process can damage the wig fibers.
Conclusion: Rock Your Wig with Confidence!
So there you have it, guys! Putting on a wig doesn't have to be a mystery. With these expert tips and tricks, you'll be rocking your wig with confidence in no time. Remember, prepping your natural hair, positioning and securing the wig correctly, and caring for your wig are the keys to a flawless look. Whether you're new to wigs or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you achieve a natural, comfortable, and stylish appearance. Now go out there and slay, knowing your wig game is strong!
