Putting on a wig for the first time can feel a little daunting, especially if you're not quite sure where everything should sit. The good news is that you don't need any special skills or complicated techniques to get a lovely result. A few simple steps can make all the difference.
Step 1: Prepare your hair
Before putting on your wig, make sure your own hair is as flat and secure as possible.
- If you have longer hair, divide it into sections and pin or braid it flat against your head.
- If you have shorter hair, smooth it down with your hands or use a few hairpins to keep it in place.
- If you wear a wig cap, put it on first and make sure it feels comfortable, with no bulky sections of hair underneath.
If you have very little or no hair, you can usually wear your wig directly against your scalp or over a comfortable wig cap, depending on your preference.
The aim is to create a smooth base so your wig sits evenly and feels secure.
Step 2: Check the inside of your wig
Before putting your wig on, take a moment to familiarise yourself with its construction.
Most wigs have a front hairline, ear tabs on either side and a nape at the back. Inside, you'll usually find adjustable straps that allow you to fine-tune the fit.
Gently hold the wig with both hands, keeping the front facing forwards and the back towards you. Avoid pulling on delicate lace or stretching the fibres unnecessarily.
Step 3: Position the wig on your head
This is often the part that takes a little practice, so don't worry if it feels awkward at first.
- Place the front of the wig against your forehead, positioning the hairline where you want it to sit.
- Gently pull the wig backwards over the crown of your head, allowing the back to settle over your nape.
- Check that the wig is sitting straight and that the ear tabs are positioned evenly on both sides.
If your wig has a lace front, take care not to pull or stretch the lace. If the lace needs trimming, follow the manufacturer's guidance before wearing the wig.
A little tip: your wig's hairline doesn't necessarily need to sit right at your natural hairline. The most flattering position depends on the style, your face shape and how the wig is designed to be worn.
Step 4: Check the fit and make adjustments
Once your wig is on, use a mirror to check that everything looks balanced.
The ear tabs should sit at a similar height on each side, and the nape should feel comfortable rather than pulling upwards. If the wig looks crooked, gently reposition it rather than tugging at the hair.
If the wig feels too loose or too tight, locate the adjustment straps inside the cap. These can usually be tightened or loosened in small increments.
Aim for a secure, comfortable fit without excessive pressure. If your scalp is sensitive, pay particular attention to any areas that feel uncomfortable.
Step 5: Style your wig into place
Now comes the enjoyable part!
Gently arrange the fibres with your fingers or use a suitable wig brush or wide-tooth comb, depending on the style and fibre type. You can adjust the parting, smooth the sides or add a little volume where needed.
If your wig has a fringe, arrange it so it sits comfortably without obstructing your vision. For a lace-front style, you can gently blend the front into place without pulling on the lace.
Stand back from the mirror and look at the overall shape. Often, a few small adjustments are all you need.
What if my wig doesn't look right?
If your wig looks too far forwards, too far back or slightly uneven, don't assume you've chosen the wrong style. It may simply need repositioning.
Take it off, check that your hair is sitting flat underneath and try again. You can also experiment with the placement in small increments until it feels right.
Remember, there is no need to get everything perfect on your first attempt. The more you practise, the more confident you'll become — and you'll soon discover the little adjustments that work best for you.
