What is the best way to secure your wig?
You may have decided to wear a wig as a consequence of a medical condition, or due to medical treatment. Or, you may just want to look fabulous. Either way, it’s important to know how to secure a wig on your head effectively, especially when the winds pick up!
Understanding how to get a wig to stay on your head comfortably and securely can feel overwhelming as there’s so many wig styles and wig accessories out there to try. In this article, we’re going to help you with how to choose a wig that will stay in place and how to use accessories for added comfort, reassurance and a natural look.
How to secure a wig
If you’re wondering how to secure a wig, you first need to consider the actual wig you’re purchasing. Many high-quality wigs have clever wig attachments sewn into the construction for a uniquely comfortable and secure fit.
Remember though – the security features will depend upon the wig that you have purchased. Each wig design may have different features. Take a look at the ‘What’s Inside’ section, which is available for every wig on the Simply Wigs website. This will give you a detailed photo of the cap design.
An example Cap Construction
(A) Lace Front, (B) Ear Tab, (C) Hand-Tied Body, (D) Nape Comfort Strip
Many wigs have a non-slip poly strip section at the front of the wig, located where your natural hairline would sit. This area provides a slight suction effect, so these strips are fabulous in preventing your wig from slipping. Adjustable pull straps are often included in the wig construction for a perfect fit. These are located at the nape of the neck, and there is usually around an inch of give, so the wig can be easily slackened or tightened depending on the size of your head.
Choosing a high-quality wig from a reputable brand will give you the best chance of having a secure wig, even if you’re also using additional accessories.
Preparation: Like many things, a faultless foundation is the key to success. Securing your wig is no different, and preparing your head before applying your wig ensures an easier application. If you have hair then you will need to fix your hair close to the scalp, so there are no visible hairs or bumps when wearing your wig.
+ For wig wearers with longer hair, you can separate your hair into two pigtails, creating tight twists, which you then cross over and fix at the nape of your neck with hair grips.
+ Shorter hair can simply be combed back and fixed to the nape where necessary, making sure your hair is brushed back from the hairline.
1. Wig Tape
If you aren’t sure how to secure a wig with no hair, wig tape is a great place to start.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Tape
A. Clean the areas where you’re going to place the tape to remove any excess oils and dirt. This will help the tape to stay secure.
B. Attach the wig tape to the underside of your wig.
C. Peel off the other side of the tape to create a secure and comfortable bond to your scalp.
Wig tape works best on hair free areas. As the tape is double-sided, it could be unpleasant if it adheres to your own hair. That being said, glue removers are available.
To learn more about wig tape and how to use it effectively, please take a look at our dedicated post.
PROS:– It’s a more scalp-friendly alternative to wig glue, as adhesives can irritate a sensitive scalp, particularly for those recovering from cancer treatment.
– Wig tape is a great way to keep your wig in place while still allowing for natural movement.
– You can buy tapes in various forms. You can buy a roll of wig tape and cut to size, you can buy pre-cut strips or you can even buy spot tabs. Most of these are available in varying strength.
– Our Extra Strong Wig Tape is a low residue tape that allows for easy clean-up and a comfortable fit. The tape allows daily wear dependent on temperature, humidity and body oils of the wig-wearer.
– Wig tape easily adheres to polyurethane tabs, which some wigs have. If your wigs do not have this, clients have used tapes against a standard cap and it does work. For additional wig security, you can add the silicone solution sheet strips to your wig or hairpiece. The tape will attach on one side to this, and one side to the scalp.
– As briefly mentioned, there are varying strength holds and our clients testify that tape works, and is very secure! You won’t have to worry about that hair flying down the street like tumbleweed, even when you may be busy and your scalp can get a bit sweaty.
– A roll of tape will last you a long time! It’s good value for money, and if security for a long period is what you require, then it’s most likely to be the best way to secure a wig for you.
CONS:– If you like to remove your wig every so often to cool your head, you may want to avoid wig tape as its strong and designed to hold the hair on for a long time. The wig security is fab, but some of our customers have told us that it can become a bit trickier when the wig is firmly stuck their head.
2. Wig Grip
The Wig Grip was designed to make wearing a wig during hair loss more secure, confident and comfortable. It adjusts to body movements, distributes the weight of a wig or hat evenly and keeps them from slipping.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Grip
A. Place the wig grip on your head and align it with your hairline.
B. Adjust the size and grip with the Velcro tabs at the back, by the nape of your neck.
C. Put your wig on over the wig grip from front to back, then adjust the wig as necessary for a natural look and comfortable feel.
PROS:– If you want to remove your wig regularly throughout the day, it is perfect as it is easy on and off.
– The Wig Grip is phenomenal for alleviating pressure and does provide great wig security.
– If you wear wig tape all day you can sometimes find you can get a tension headache. You may find that, as the Wig Grip band is lightweight and durable, it is a very comfortable solution.
CONS:– The wig grip will last for approximately six months, if cared for correctly. Over time, it may lose its elasticity and would need replacing.
3. Silicone Solution Sheet
The Silicone Solution Sheet is as it says “on the tin” – a sheet of silicone. It comes directly from Simply Wigs, and is supplied with some ‘invisible’ thread. You can then cut the silicone to desired size and shape.
How to Secure a Wig with a Silicone Sheet
A. Cut the silicone sheet into your desired size and shape.
B. Then, simply stitch it inside your wig cap.
This is security that you are effectively building into your own wig, and it provides a gentle suction effect for additional wig security. It is up to you how and where you stitch this to your wig.
PROS:– You have free reign over the shape, size and placement of your silicone strips.
– Silicone grips to bare skin securely and comfortably, so these sheets work wonderfully for wig wearers with no natural hair.
– Your sewn-in, silicone sheet should last and be effective for a lifetime.
CONS:– Care needs to be taken when sewing the silicone sheets into your wig. If you’re not comfortable with a needle and thread, you should practice or ask someone for help.
4. Wig Cap
For those asking how to secure a capless wig, a wig cap may be the perfect solution for you. There are many benefits to wearing a wig cap, guaranteeing that long or short natural hair will stay in place. What’s more, it prevents the natural hair from breaking easily from friction, creating a safe and sanitised barrier between the wig and scalp, and maintaining the cleanliness of your wig.
How to Secure a Wig with a Wig Cap
A. Clean the parts of your skin where the wig cap will come in contact with. This will help to remove any dirt or oils that may compromise the security of the wig cap.
B. Place the wig cap on your head, from the front of your hairline to the back of your neck.
C. Check there are no air pockets that would cause unnatural bumps. Smooth them out.
D. Place on your wig.
TOP TIP: Some of our customers love wig caps, and some don’t. So wig cap or no wig cap? It is a completely personal preference. Thankfully though, the basic wig caps that we sell are very purse-friendly. Our comfy Elasticated Wig Cap is one size fits all and is available in black, brown, blonde and grey . . . . just perfect! We also have the Christine Collection Bamboo Wig liner, a more luxurious version of the basic cap.
PROS:– Wig caps don’t just act as a protective barrier between the scalp and your wig, they are also the perfect tool for helping keep your wig in place.
– Wig caps hold everything in place and are ideal for both shorter and longer natural hair, as well as bare scalps.
– Wig caps can also smooth out the surface underneath a wig, with lumps often being caused by the natural hair under there. As a result of the wig cap, wigs often rest much better on the head, producing a more natural look.
– You can choose from a variety of wig cap materials, depending on what you feel most comfortable with.
CONS:– The potential downside of wearing a wig cap is that it can make things hot under your wig, • which could cause you to feel the heat and become a little uncomfortable.
5. Wig Clips
Although a well-fitting wig should stay in place without any further wig attachments, you may feel happier using an added security wig attachment, such as some wig clips. Just be aware that wig clips are only effective if you have some hair, and you are not wearing a wig cap.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Clips
A. Once you’ve styled your wig, all your need to do is lift a handful of the top section of the wig and place the clips in, to secure the wig all the way around your head.
B. The number of clips and size you need to use will be dependent on the style and how secure the wig feels. It’s good to do a few trial runs of securing the wig with clips prior to wearing your wig out, just so you feel comfortable and confident with where you have placed the clips.
PROS:– Wig clips are easy to use and an inexpensive way of securing your wigs every day of the week.
– They come in different colours to match all your different wigs, as well as different sizes, in order to complement the different stylings of our wigs too.
CONS:– Wig clips will only work if you have natural hair and are not wearing a wig cap.
6. Bobby Pins
If you’re looking for extra security when wearing your wig and you have natural hair, bobby pins work a treat. They’re an easy and comfortable tool to use, requiring no maintenance.
How to Secure a Wig with Bobby Pins
A. You can use bobby pins to help flatten down and secure your natural hair in place before placing on your wig.
B. Once you’ve placed on and styled your wig, lift up parts of the hair and secure a bobby pin through the wefts and into your natural hair.
C. If your wig isn’t wefted, you can use bobby pins to secure your wig to your natural hair around the side of the wig and by your temples.
D. The number of bobby pins that works will vary from person to person, so experiment to see what you feel comfortable with.
PROS:– Bobby pins are available in a host of colours, so you can colour match them with your wig and achieve a natural look.
– They’re also super affordable and you can keep them handy when you’re on-the-go. Perfect for last-minute touch ups or when you’re rushing out the door.
– Bobby pins can be used in conjunction with other wig securing methods.
– They’re small and subtle so you can feel comfortable, confident that your wig is secure and assured that the bobby pins aren’t glaringly obvious.
CONS:– f you don’t use enough bobby pins, or fail to lock them in securely, they can become loose as you go about your day. This is why we recommend testing what it’s like to wear your wig with bobby pins from the comfort of your home beforehand.
Top Tip: On a final note, a simple way to check that your wig is firmly in place is to bend over and shake your head. If you feel comfortable and confident that it is secure, then you’re ready to flaunt your flawless style!
Handy Wig Tips for the Wind!
For those of you who wear long wigs, especially long synthetic wigs, high winds and rain can leave wigs prone to static tangle and, therefore, a shorter lifespan. But, there is a simple solution that our customers have found.
With a synthetic wig, you can tie a loose side braid (plait) to stop the hair flying away. It will remain straight or curly as was prior to braiding and you won’t have that “windswept” look.