How to Style a Wig in Different Ways – Everything You Need to Know

Learning how to wear and style wigs opens up new doors to multiple creative styling opportunities. It helps you discover your style and lets you know your features.

Before venturing into wig styling, we must know the different types available. It is also important to know the products needed to style them. Additionally, your face shape and overall aesthetic are equally important when choosing a wig.

Optimizing Wig Selection: A Holistic Approach

Selecting the right wig style involves understanding the nuances of face shape, personal features, and style preferences.

In my practice as a plastic surgeon, although the primary focus is on reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, discussions about post-surgical appearance enhancements often include the subject of wigs, especially for patients undergoing treatment that affects their hair.

For example, when consulting with a patient about facial feminization surgery, the topic of hairline alteration and wig selection often arises to complement the surgical outcomes.

Face shape plays a critical role in wig selection. For instance, someone with a round face might choose a wig with volume at the top to elongate the face, whereas someone with an oval face has more versatility in style.

I’ve advised patients on selecting wigs that balance their features, such as recommending styles with bangs for those looking to shorten the appearance of a longer face or layers to soften a more angular jawline.

It’s about creating harmony between the wig style and the individual’s facial features.

Personal style and lifestyle also significantly influence wig choice.

A patient who has an active lifestyle may prefer shorter, more manageable styles that require less maintenance, while someone who enjoys fashion and changing their look might opt for longer, versatile wigs that can be styled in various ways.

In discussions, I emphasize the importance of considering how a wig can align with or enhance their overall aesthetic, ensuring they feel confident and comfortable with their choice.

This holistic approach, considering not just the physical aspects but also the psychological well-being of the patient, is vital in ensuring the wig not only complements their physical appearance but also boosts their confidence and aligns with their lifestyle and personal identity.

Dr. Kristopher M. Day, MD, FACS, Kris Day Plastic Surgery

1. Types of Wigs

Essentially, there are two types of wigs based on the material: human hair and synthetic wigs. Both are great options for styling your hair or creating a new look without changing your hair.

1.1. Synthetic Wigs

For beginners and for those who like to change their style regularly, synthetic wigs will be an appropriate choice.

They are affordable, come in fun colours, are pre-styled, and are thus easy to wear. You can also use them to learn and practice wig styling as they come cheaper. 

All they need is a little shake to refresh their set look. The strands of this type of wig are very delicate in nature due to their fragile fibres.

It is usually recommended to avoid heat-styling them as it can easily damage the strands.

1.2. Human Hair Wigs

If you are a low-maintenance person and need your wig to be a regular part of your overall look, then a human hair wig should be your choice.

They might be more expensive than synthetic wigs, but their long-lasting features and flexible styling capabilities make them a great choice for everyday wear. When taken proper care, they can easily last for 6 months to a whole year.

They are wigs made of human hair, giving room for heat-styling and colouring. As much as these wigs have pros, they have cons as well.

Human hair wigs lack natural oil and vitamins, so they need additional hair care products to maintain the shine of the strands.

2. How to Install a Wig

Hair prep and wig installation combine to create a natural look. Follow the steps below for an easy wig installation process.

1. Cleanse your natural hair. Apply a heat-protectant to protect your natural hair. Also, add a pump of leave-in conditioner for extra moisture before wig installation. Make sure your hair is completely dry.
2. Use a wig cap and tuck in your natural hair to create a flat base for the wig. If your hair is on the thicker side, braid down your hair to create a flat bottom. You can then tuck it underneath the wig cap.
3. It would be best to have a tail comb and styling products like wig adhesive, especially for proper installation and styling.
4. After you wear a wig cap, apply a layer of adhesive meant for wigs throughout your hairline. Wrap a scarf or elastic band around the cap for a stronger hold for 10-15 minutes.
5. Once the wig is secured, trim the lace with a small razor. Trim a small portion of the hairline lace at a time while following your natural hairline pattern. Be careful and avoid excess cutting.
6. Spray a bit of dry shampoo to remove the excess shine and bring in a more natural look.
7. Spray glue onto the wig cap and dry the glue with a blow-dryer in a cool setting. The goal is to melt the lace. Use multiple layers of spray with a blow dryer to ensure the wig is firmly in place.
8. For wigs that act as hair extensions, such as ponytail pieces or hair toppers, have a lot of bobby pins in hand to secure them. Make sure to clip in gently so that it does not pull your natural hair.

Essential Steps for Wig Wearers

Selecting the Right Wig

• Consider Scalp Sensitivity: Individuals should opt for wigs made from materials that are less likely to irritate the skin. Natural fibres might be more comfortable for sensitive scalps.
• Understanding Cap Construction: The wig’s cap is crucial in its fit and comfort. A breathable cap design is recommended for better air circulation to the scalp.

Preparing the Scalp

• Maintaining Scalp Health: Ensure the scalp is clean and moisturized before wearing a wig. Use hypoallergenic products to avoid any adverse reactions.
• Protecting Natural Hair: For those with hair, using a wig cap can help protect the natural hair and assist in keeping the wig in place.

Wig Installation

• Proper Alignment: Align the wig with the natural hairline, ensuring it sits comfortably and looks natural. Adjustments should be made cautiously to prevent scalp irritation.
• Securing the Wig: Wigs can be secured with clips or glue. If using glue, select products specifically designed for wigs to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.

Aftercare

• Regular Cleaning: Wigs require regular cleaning with recommended products to prevent buildup that could irritate the skin.
• Resting the Scalp: Avoid wearing the wig for extended periods. Giving the scalp time to breathe daily reduces the risk of irritation and promotes scalp health.

Dr. TN Rekha Singh, Dermatologist, OLIVA CLINIC

3. How to Style a Wig

There are different ways in which you can style a wig. The styling process also depends on the type of wig you are using. Your hair texture also plays an important role while styling a wig.

3.1. Synthetic Wigs

Since synthetic wigs come pre-styled in various styles and aesthetics, including different colours, there is no need to style them.

Stylists recommend that you should keep synthetic wigs away from heat as far as possible. If you still want to heat-style them, use low heat after giving them a gentle shampoo rinse.

Use wig-friendly brushes and combs to fluff up the hair for added volume for non-heat methods. Synthetic wigs with curly hair patterns are more feasible for big styles and blend better with natural hair. 

These wigs are incredibly handy. They are good for full and natural hairstyles as they don’t fall flat because of the weight of the hair or get affected by humidity.

Tips for Styling Synthetic Wigs –

1. Add volume by using a comb to tease near the roots. Lift the comb in an upward motion in gentle strokes to create height. Set it with wig spray specifically meant for synthetic wigs.
2. Customize your wig by cutting it to frame your face. Different hairstyles, like a bob or trimmed layer, can be created on a wig. For beginners, it is recommended that you visit a hairdresser for a better-styled one.
3. Use synthetic wigs partially to create natural looks. Synthetic wigs come in a variety of styles and colours. You can easily pick one that is similar to your natural hair and blend it with your natural strands. This will create a more voluminous and complex style, especially for fancy events.
4. They are great to style for cosplays, as they come in exaggerated style and fun colours as well.

3.2. Human Hair Wigs

Since human hair wigs are made from human hair, they can also stand heat styling, perming, and colouring. If you like to use wigs regularly or for a longer duration, then a human hair wig is the best.

Don’t style or even comb the hair when it’s wet. This can cause long-lasting damage to the shape of the wig. However, you may use a hair dryer and use styling spray to minimize damage as much as possible.

Tips for Styling Human Hair Wigs –

1. Wear your wig in its natural shape when you are ready to go out. Style it along with your natural hair strands. Use hair straighteners and rollers to create the style you want. If you find it difficult to reach the wig when it is set on your head, try to style it on a wig strand separately and then easily place it back.
2. Since human hair wigs are made from human hair, you can dye them into fun colours or match them with the colour of your own hair.
3. Just like synthetic wigs, human hair wigs can also be cut to frame your face or to get a specific hairstyle.
4. Use hair clip-ons or ponytail pieces to add extra volume to your natural hair. You can create a half-up and half-down style or a loose ponytail with longer wigs. Human hair wigs are an amazing option to create “messy” hairstyles that are on trend, as the strands look natural to your hair.

Avoid Heat, Over-styling & Neglecting Proper Care

In my experience, common mistakes when styling wigs include using high heat, over-styling, and neglecting proper care. To avoid these pitfalls, opt for low-heat settings, gentle styling techniques, and regular maintenance with specialized products.

Additionally, incorrect cutting and forcing the wig into unnatural styles can result in uneven layers and frustration. Instead, work with the wig’s natural texture and consider consulting a professional stylist for alterations.

Lastly, ensure a secure fit by wearing a wig cap or grip, and customize the wig to suit your face shape and style preferences. With attention to detail and proper care, you can achieve a polished and professional appearance with your wig.

Damar K, Content Writer, Explainerd

4. How to Take Care of the Wigs

The process of taking care is different for human hair and synthetic wigs. You can follow these steps to ensure that you have a clean wig.

4.1. Maintenance of Synthetic Wigs

1. Opt for a wide-toothed comb or brush meant for wigs to deal with tangles. If you don’t have these, use your fingers to eliminate tangles. Run your fingers gently from the roots to the ends. If it is a curly or kinky wig, do not use any comb or brush, as it can permanently damage the curls and ruin the wig style.
2. Use lukewarm water to wash the wig.
3. When washing your wig, remember to change water when going from shampoo to conditioner. For added protection, use a shampoo specifically formulated for wigs.
4. Never rub the shampoo directly on the wig. Instead, gently move the wig in a clockwise and anticlockwise motion and allow it to soak.
5. When rinsing the wig, let the water flow from the root to the ends of the hair toward the length of the strands.
6. Follow the same direction with the conditioner. Make sure to use your fingers to coat the wig with the product. Be careful not to pull or squeeze the hair, as it can cause damage.
7. Remove excess water using a towel. Use your fingers to bring the shape back in the wig and let it air dry.

4.2. Maintenance of Human Hair Wigs

1. Human hair wig does not need to be washed frequently. Wash them as little as possible and only when required. Generally, they need a wash every 7-10 wears.
2. Follow the same exact steps as a synthetic hair wig when washing the wig.
3. Don’t forget to add wig-specialized hair masks or oils to keep the moisture and smoothness of the strands intact. As human hair wig do not get their regular supply of essential oils, it is essential to provide it externally. This increases the wig’s life period and softness.
4. Don’t forget to use heat protection when you style wigs with hair tools, as wigs can get easily damaged.

Wig Care Tips for Your Desired Style

Before executing any techniques, start with a high-quality wig that suits your desired style. Whether you want a sleek and polished look or a bold and avant-garde statement, investing in a high-quality wig with the appropriate texture and density can make all the difference.

Once you have the perfect wig in hand, understanding the importance of proper wig care and maintenance is crucial. Regularly washing and conditioning your wig will keep it looking fresh and vibrant, ensuring that it maintains its shape and texture over time.

Plus, using specialized wig styling products, such as heat protectant sprays and styling gels, can help you achieve the desired look while minimizing damage to the wig fibres.

Mimi Nguyen, Founder, Cafely

Wrapping Up

Knowing how to style a wig with proper styling tools and products is essential. Necessary after-care will maintain the longevity of your wig, keeping it fresh and beautiful. No matter what wig style you choose, in the end, it’s your confidence that pulls off the look. 

Guest Author: Saket Kumar