How to Put on a Wig and Make It Look Natural

Ever want to try a new hair color or haircut but find yourself too afraid to commit to a permanent mane change? We feel you. When you’re interested in switching up your locks sans commitment, turning to a wig may be worth considering. From wig parties to Halloween to everyday life, there are a number of occasions where you may find yourself reaching for a wig. Of course, if you’ve ever tried to put a wig on, you know it isn’t as simple as popping it onto your head—especially if you want it to look real. Wondering how you can style a wig and make it look natural? Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up all the necessary tips and tricks so you can learn how to wear a wig with style—not to mention how to put on a wig properly. Ready to revamp your look with the wig of your choice? Take note of our eight wig styling tips below!

WIG STYLING TIP #1: START WITH A WIG CAP

When it comes to knowing how to wear a wig, learning the importance of a wig cap is key. The purpose of a wig cap is to conceal and disguise your natural hair, keeping it out of the way and from preventing it from poking out of your wig mid-wear. First, pull your entire length into a sleek bun. If you have any flyaways, use a few bobby pins to secure them, so they don’t make an unwanted appearance. Then, pull your wig cap over your hair, aligning it with your hairline and securing it with bobby pins.

Editor’s tip: Consider using a wig cap that’s close in color to your skin tone so it can pass for your scalp should it become exposed.

WIG STYLING TIP #2: GRAB YOUR TWEEZERS

Let’s be real—who has a perfect part? The truth is, no matter how expertly you use a rat tail comb to part your hair, there will always be a strand or two out of place. When it comes to a wig, however, most parts tend to be too perfect. This is where your tweezers come in handy. Pluck a few (not too many—you don’t want to have bald patches!) strands of hair from the hairline of your wig for a more realistic part.

WIG STYLING TIP #3: TURN TO DRY SHAMPOO

More times than not, synthetic wigs tend to have an unrealistic sheen to them. This shine can be dulled with the help of dry shampoo, which typically has a matte finish as it’s used to absorb oils from your strands. Spritz the wig with a dry shampoo with a clear finish to mattify any unwanted luster. Our favorite? The L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil Clay Dry Shampoo.

WIG STYLING TIP #4: STYLE IT THE RIGHT WAY

While you may be tempted to wear your wig down, styling it into a braid, ponytail, or updo can create a more natural-looking appearance. Consider giving one of these 30 Braided Ponytail Hairstyles You're About to Be Obsessed With a try.

WIG STYLING TIP #5: GIVE YOUR WIG A HAIRCUT

We don’t recommend cutting your own hair at home, and the same rule can be applied to your wig—unless you’re totally OK with a potential loss should the cut not turn out as planned. If you have a wig with straight-across, one-length cut, consider taking it to a professional for a layered haircut, which will give it a more natural look.

WIG STYLING TIP #6: DON’T SKIP WIG GLUE

Plan to wear your wig for a long time? If there’s one way to tell that a wig is fake, it’s if it comes loose throughout the night. Yikes! To prevent your wig from budging and avoid any hair loss mishaps, apply wig glue along your hairline for a secure, foolproof wig adhesive. And don’t worry—wig glue can easily be removed when it comes time to take your wig off.  

WIG STYLING TIP #7: MATCH YOUR HAIRLINE

When putting on your wig, try and align the hairline of the wig as closely to your natural hairline as possible. This will help it appear more realistic, as opposed to having half of your forehead consumed by fake hair.

WIG STYLING TIP #8: SPORT A NATURAL HAIR COLOR

Last but not least, as tempting as it may be to sport a vibrant, bold hair color, choosing a wig that’s in a shade close to your natural hair color will leave you with the most natural look. Oftentimes, colorful wigs make it easy to call out faux hair due to their bright, unrealistic hues. Of course, if you’re prepared to stand out, feel free to disregard this tip!

Next up: Learn more about pulling off fake hair—hair extensions, to be more specific. Here are 5 Tips for Styling Hair Extensions.