How To Put On A Wig: Expert Tips For A Natural Look

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to rock a wig like a pro? Putting on a wig might seem daunting at first, but trust me, with the right tips and tricks, you can achieve a flawless and natural look every time. In this guide, we're diving deep into the world of wig application, covering everything from prepping your hair to styling your new locks. Whether you're new to wigs or just looking to refine your technique, you've come to the right place. So, let's get started and transform your look!

Preparing Your Natural Hair for Wig Application

Before you even think about putting on that wig, prepping your natural hair is crucial. Think of it as laying the foundation for a perfect hairstyle. If you skip this step, you might end up with a lumpy, uneven look, and nobody wants that! So, how do you get your hair ready for a wig? Let's break it down.

First things first, you need to get your hair as flat and smooth as possible. This will prevent any bulkiness under the wig and ensure a natural-looking silhouette. There are several ways to achieve this, depending on the length and texture of your hair.

For those with longer hair, the most common method is to create flat braids or cornrows. Part your hair into even sections and braid them close to your scalp. The key here is to make the braids as flat as possible. You can braid your hair straight back or create a more intricate pattern, but the flatter the braids, the better the wig will lay. If braiding isn't your forte, you can also try wrapping your hair. This involves wrapping sections of your hair around your head in a circular motion and securing them with bobby pins. Again, the goal is to create a smooth, flat base.

If you have shorter hair, you might be able to simply slick it back and secure it with bobby pins or a wig cap. The important thing is to make sure all your hair is tucked away neatly and isn't creating any bumps or lumps. Using a styling gel or hairspray can help keep your hair in place and prevent flyaways.

Once your hair is braided, wrapped, or slicked back, it's time for the wig cap. A wig cap is a thin, stretchy cap that goes over your natural hair and provides a smooth surface for the wig to attach to. It also helps to protect your natural hair and scalp from the wig's friction. Choose a wig cap that matches your skin tone or the color of your wig for the most natural look. Place the wig cap over your hair, making sure all your hair is completely covered. You can use bobby pins to secure the cap in place, especially around the edges.

Finally, before you put on your wig, consider using a scalp protector. This is especially important if you have a sensitive scalp or plan to wear your wig for extended periods. Scalp protectors create a barrier between your scalp and the wig, preventing irritation and itching. They come in various forms, such as sprays, gels, and creams. Choose one that suits your needs and apply it evenly to your scalp before putting on your wig. Guys, remember, proper preparation is the secret to a flawless wig application! Take your time with this step, and you'll be amazed at the difference it makes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Putting on Your Wig

Alright, guys, now that your natural hair is prepped and ready to go, let's get to the main event: putting on your wig! This is where the magic happens, and you transform your look in an instant. Don't worry if it seems a little tricky at first; with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you nail the wig application process.

Step 1: Position the Wig:

First things first, hold your wig by the sides and gently shake it to loosen the fibers. This will help create a more natural look and prevent the wig from looking too flat or stiff. Now, position the wig so that the front hairline aligns with your natural hairline. This is the most crucial step in achieving a realistic look. If the wig is too far forward or too far back, it will look unnatural. Most wigs have small tabs or ear loops on the inside that should sit just in front of your ears. Use these as a guide to ensure the wig is properly positioned.

Step 2: Secure the Front:

Once you've positioned the wig correctly, start by securing the front. Most wigs have adjustable straps or combs inside the front hairline. Use these to secure the wig to your wig cap or natural hair. If your wig has combs, gently insert them into your hair or wig cap. If it has adjustable straps, tighten them until the wig feels snug but not too tight. You want the wig to be secure enough that it won't slip, but not so tight that it feels uncomfortable or puts pressure on your head. For extra security, you can also use wig glue or adhesive tape along the front hairline. Apply a thin layer of glue or tape to your skin and then gently press the wig down onto it. Make sure the glue or tape is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Secure the Back:

After you've secured the front of the wig, it's time to secure the back. Just like the front, the back of the wig usually has adjustable straps or combs. Use these to secure the wig to the back of your head. Make sure the wig is sitting snugly against your scalp and that there are no gaps or bulges. If the back of the wig feels loose, tighten the straps or add bobby pins for extra security. You can also use wig glue or adhesive tape along the back hairline for a more secure hold. Guys, it's all about making sure that wig isn't going anywhere!

Step 4: Check the Overall Fit:

Once the wig is securely in place, take a moment to check the overall fit. Look in the mirror and make sure the wig is sitting evenly on your head. The hairline should look natural, and there shouldn't be any gaps or bulges. If you notice any areas that look uneven or unnatural, adjust the wig until it looks perfect. You might need to loosen or tighten the straps, reposition the wig, or add more bobby pins for security. This is your chance to fine-tune the fit and make sure your wig looks flawless.

Step 5: Blend the Hairline:

The final step is to blend the wig's hairline with your natural hairline (if you have one showing) or your skin. This is crucial for achieving a natural look. If the wig's hairline is too harsh or obvious, it will give away the fact that you're wearing a wig. To blend the hairline, you can use a few different techniques. One popular method is to use a concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone. Apply a small amount of concealer or foundation along the hairline to soften the edge of the wig. You can also use a pair of tweezers to pluck a few hairs along the hairline, creating a more natural, irregular shape. Another trick is to use a wig comb or brush to gently blend the wig's hair with your natural hair, creating a seamless transition.

Achieving a Natural Look: Expert Tips and Tricks

Okay, guys, you've got the basics down, but let's talk about taking your wig game to the next level. Achieving a truly natural look is all about the details. It's the little things that can make a big difference between a wig that looks like a wig and a wig that looks like your own hair. So, let's dive into some expert tips and tricks for achieving that flawless, natural finish.

First up, let's talk about the hairline. This is arguably the most important part of making a wig look natural. A harsh, unnatural hairline is a dead giveaway that you're wearing a wig. So, what can you do to create a more realistic hairline? We touched on this earlier, but it's worth going into more detail. One key technique is to pluck some of the hairs along the hairline. Wigs often have a very dense hairline, which can look unnatural. By plucking a few hairs, you can create a more sparse and irregular hairline, mimicking the way natural hair grows. Use a pair of tweezers to pluck the hairs one at a time, being careful not to overdo it. You can also use a razor or scissors to trim the baby hairs along the hairline, making them look softer and more natural.

Another tip for a natural-looking hairline is to use a lace front wig. Lace front wigs have a sheer lace panel along the front hairline, which allows the hair to appear as if it's growing directly from your scalp. This creates a much more realistic look than a traditional wig with a solid front. When you're wearing a lace front wig, it's important to trim the lace carefully. Leave about a quarter of an inch of lace along the hairline and then trim the rest. You can use wig glue or adhesive tape to secure the lace to your skin, creating a seamless blend.

Now, let's talk about parting. The way you part your wig can also affect how natural it looks. A deep, dramatic part can look stunning, but it can also look less natural than a more subtle part. If you want to achieve a natural look, try parting your wig slightly off-center. This will create a more relaxed and effortless vibe. You can also experiment with different parting styles to see what looks best on you. Use a wig comb or your fingers to create the part, and then use hairspray to hold it in place.

Texture and volume are other important factors to consider. Wigs often have a lot of volume, which can look unnatural if it's not styled properly. To tone down the volume, you can try using a wig brush or comb to smooth the hair down. You can also use styling products, such as hairspray or mousse, to add texture and definition. If your wig is too shiny, you can use a dry shampoo or powder to dull the shine and make it look more natural. Remember, the goal is to make the wig look like your own hair, so don't be afraid to experiment with different styling techniques.

Finally, color plays a crucial role in achieving a natural look. Choose a wig color that complements your skin tone and natural hair color (if you have any showing). If you're unsure which color to choose, it's always best to go with a shade that's close to your natural hair color. You can also add highlights or lowlights to your wig to create a more dimensional and natural look. This can be done by a professional stylist or at home using wig-safe dyes or markers.

Caring for Your Wig to Extend Its Lifespan

Alright, guys, you've mastered the art of putting on a wig and achieving a natural look. But the journey doesn't end there! To keep your wig looking fabulous and extend its lifespan, proper care is essential. Think of your wig as an investment, and just like any investment, it needs some TLC to thrive. So, let's talk about how to care for your wig like a pro.

First up, let's discuss washing. How often you need to wash your wig depends on how often you wear it and how much product you use. As a general rule, you should wash your synthetic wig every 6-8 wears, and your human hair wig every 8-10 wears. Overwashing can damage the wig fibers, so it's best to wash it only when necessary. When it's time to wash your wig, use a wig-specific shampoo and conditioner. These products are specially formulated to be gentle on wig fibers and won't strip them of their natural oils. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of shampoo. Gently swish the wig in the water, avoiding any harsh rubbing or twisting. Rinse the wig thoroughly with cool water until all the shampoo is gone. Next, apply wig conditioner to the wig, focusing on the ends. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, and then rinse it out with cool water. Remember guys, be gentle!

Now, let's talk about drying. Never use a hairdryer or any other heat styling tool to dry your wig. Heat can damage the wig fibers, especially synthetic ones. Instead, gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Then, place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head to air dry. This will help the wig maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming tangled. Avoid placing the wig in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause the fibers to fade or become brittle. It's all about that gentle air dry, guys.

Storage is another crucial aspect of wig care. When you're not wearing your wig, store it on a wig stand or mannequin head. This will help it maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming tangled or matted. If you don't have a wig stand, you can also store your wig in its original packaging or a plastic bag. Make sure the wig is clean and dry before storing it. Avoid storing your wig in a hot or humid environment, as this can damage the fibers. A cool, dry place is ideal for wig storage.

Let's move on to styling. You can style your wig just like you would style your natural hair, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always use wig-safe styling products. Regular hair products can contain harsh chemicals that can damage wig fibers. Look for products that are specifically designed for wigs. Second, use heat styling tools sparingly. Heat can damage wig fibers, so it's best to avoid using heat as much as possible. If you do use heat styling tools, use a low heat setting and always use a heat protectant spray. Finally, be gentle when styling your wig. Avoid pulling or tugging on the fibers, as this can cause them to break or shed.

Finally, let's discuss detangling. Wigs can become tangled, especially long ones. To detangle your wig, use a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush. Start at the ends and gently work your way up to the roots. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair, as this can cause damage. If you encounter a stubborn tangle, use a detangling spray or a leave-in conditioner to help loosen the knot. Be patient and take your time, guys. Detangling can be a bit tedious, but it's essential for keeping your wig looking its best.

Conclusion: Rocking Your Wig with Confidence

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to putting on a wig, achieving a natural look, and caring for your new hairstyle. We've covered everything from prepping your natural hair to styling your wig like a pro. With these expert tips and tricks, you'll be rocking your wig with confidence in no time. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you wear and style your wig, the more comfortable you'll become with the process. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for you. Whether you're wearing a wig for fashion, fun, or necessity, it's all about feeling confident and fabulous. So go out there and rock your wig, guys! You've got this!