How to Fit a Lace Front Wig: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lace front wigs are a fantastic way to transform your style without breaking the bank, making them a favourite for achieving a natural and glamorous look. They offer a realistic finish and the flexibility to experiment with various hairstyles.

Many people feel unsure about how to apply their new lace front wig. Application methods vary, with options for using glue or going glue-free. Knowing how to properly fit a lace front wig is key to achieving both comfort and style, no matter if your just just starting out with wigs or looking to refine your technique.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you wear your lace front wig with confidence!

Understanding Lace Front Wigs

Lace front wigs have a see-through lace panel at the front that looks like your natural hairline. This makes the wig blend in with your skin, so it seems like the hair is growing from your scalp.

Lace front wigs come in many styles and colours, giving you lots of options for your look. The lace is usually made from Swiss or French lace, which is strong and looks natural. The hairs are tied to the lace by hand, one by one, to make the hair density and movement look real. You can style these wigs in many ways, even in updos or with parts that show the scalp area.

Preparing Your Scalp and Natural Hair

First, wash your hair and scalp with a gentle shampoo to remove any dirt or oil. This makes sure your scalp is clean for the wig and helps prevent skin irritation. If you have long hair, braid it flat against your head or pin it down. For short hair, use gel to slick it down, making a smooth surface for the wig cap.

Next, put a scalp protector around your hairline. This creates a barrier between your skin and the wig glue, which stops irritation and makes it easier to take the wig off later.

Don't skip this step, especially if you have sensitive skin! 

Some people also use an alcohol-based product to remove any remaining oils from the hairline area, which helps the wig stick better. If you're going to wear your wig for a long time, you might want to use a leave-in conditioner on your natural hair to keep it moisturised under the wig cap.

Choosing and Applying the Right Wig Cap

A wig cap helps you get a smooth, natural look with your lace front wig. Pick a cap that matches your skin colour as closely as possible. If you can't find an exact match, there are special dyes you can use to colour wig caps and lace to match your skin. 

The material of the wig cap is important too; mesh caps are breathable and work well for most people, while nylon caps can give a smoother base for those with very short or no hair.

To put on the wig cap, start at the back of your neck and gently pull it forward over your head. Make sure all your hair is tucked inside and the cap sits comfortably just behind your hairline. A well-fitted wig cap not only helps keep your wig in place but also gives a smooth base for the lace to lay flat against. Some people use wig grip bands under the cap for extra security. These bands have a velvet-like texture that helps keep the wig in place without glue, which can be good for people with sensitive skin or who don't want to use glue.

Fitting Your Lace Front Wig

Now for the fun part - putting on your lace front wig! Start by placing the wig on your head, lining up the front of the wig with your natural hairline. Gently pull the wig down at the back, making sure it covers your whole scalp. Take a moment to adjust the wig, making sure it feels comfortable and secure. Pay special attention to the areas around your ears and the back of your neck, as these are important for a natural fit. The lace should lay flat against your forehead without any bumps or gaps.

Most lace front wigs have adjustable straps at the back. Use these to tighten or loosen the wig for the perfect fit. The wig should feel snug but not too tight - you don't want a headache after wearing it for a few hours! Some fancy wigs also have combs or clips inside for extra security. If your wig has these, gently slide them into your natural hair or the wig cap to hold it better. Remember, you want the wig to be secure but still comfortable enough to wear all day.

Securing the Lace Front

To make your hairline look natural, you need to secure the lace front of your wig. There are a few ways to do this:

• Wig glue: Put a thin layer of wig glue along your hairline, let it get a bit sticky, then gently press the lace onto the glue. This method holds the wig very securely and is good for wearing the wig for a long time or if you're very active.
• Wig tape: Cut small pieces of wig tape and put them along your hairline before pressing the lace down. Tape is easier to remove than glue and is good for people with sensitive skin or who change their wigs often.
• Wig grip band: This is great if you don't want to use glue or tape. Just put the band around your head before putting on the wig. The rough surface of the band helps keep the wig in place by friction.
• Got2b Glued Spray: This hairspray has become popular for holding wigs in place. It holds strongly but is easier to wash out than regular wig glue.

Whichever method you choose, take your time to make sure the lace is secured properly. This step is key to making your wig look natural! Apply the adhesive in small sections, working your way across the hairline. Use a comb or the edge of a makeup sponge to press the lace into the adhesive, making sure there are no gaps or lifted areas.

Trimming the Lace

Once your wig is securely in place, it's time to trim any extra lace. This step can be a bit scary, but don't worry - with a steady hand and some patience, you'll do great! Use small, sharp scissors to carefully cut away the extra lace, following your natural hairline. Work in small sections, and remember - it's better to cut less than more. You can always trim more later if you need to. Some wig experts suggest using a white eyeliner pencil to mark your natural hairline before cutting, which can help guide you.

When trimming, cut in a zigzag pattern rather than a straight line to make it look more like a natural hairline. This technique, called "customising" or "plucking" the hairline, involves carefully removing individual hairs from the lace to create a more natural look. If you're not confident in your trimming skills, many wig shops offer pre-plucked options or professional customisation services.

Styling Your Lace Front Wig

Now that your wig is fitted and secured, it's time for the fun part - styling! Premium quality lace front wigs offer lots of styling options. You can part them in different ways, pull them back into ponytails, or even braid them. Just remember to be gentle, especially with the lace front area. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle the hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to avoid damaging the wig.

If you're using heat styling tools, start with a low temperature to avoid damaging the wig. Always use a heat protectant spray, just like you would with your natural hair. For synthetic wigs, be extra careful with heat - many can't handle high temperatures. Some high-quality synthetic wigs can handle some heat, but it's always best to check the manufacturer's instructions. For human hair wigs, you have more styling options, but remember that too much heat styling can still damage the hair over time.

To make your wig blend even better with your skin, you can use a bit of concealer or foundation along the hairline. This can help hide the lace and make it look even more natural. Some people create "baby hairs" along the hairline using a small amount of gel or edge control product. This can look really good for certain styles and can help hide the wig's edge even more.

Taking Care of Your Lace Front Wig

💆🏽‍♀️ Taking good care of your wig will help it look great and last longer. Here are some important tips to keep your wig looking its best:

• Wash your wig regularly using special wig shampoo and conditioner. How often depends on how much you wear it, but usually every 6-8 wears is a good rule.
• Try not to sleep in your wig if you can. If you have to, use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent tangling. Some people also use a silk or satin cap to protect the wig while sleeping.
• When you're not wearing your wig, keep it on a wig stand or mannequin head to help it keep its shape. This also lets air flow through the wig, which prevents it from getting musty.
• Be gentle when brushing or combing your wig to avoid damaging it. Start from the ends and work your way up, using a wide-tooth comb or a brush made for wigs.
• Clean the lace front with alcohol every now and then to remove any buildup of oils or glue residue. This helps keep the lace clear and prevents it from changing colour.

And if your wig gets tangled or matted, don't panic! Gently work out the knots using a detangling spray and your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Never try to brush out bad tangles when the wig is dry.

Conclusion: Wearing Your Lace Front Wig with Confidence

Fitting a lace front wig might seem tricky at first, but with practice, you'll get really good at it. Remember, the key to a great-looking wig is preparing well, putting it on carefully, and taking good care of it. Don't be afraid to try different styles and colours to find the look that makes you feel most confident and beautiful. As you get more comfortable with your wig, you'll discover new styling tricks that work best for you.

Whether you're wearing a wig for fashion, fun, or because you need to, a well-fitted lace front wig can make you feel more confident and let you express yourself in new ways. So go ahead, try out that short bob or long, flowing hair you've always wanted. With your new skills in fitting lace front wigs, you have so many hair possibilities!