How To Put On A Wig Cap | Beginner's Step-By-Step Guide (2024)

Before you transform your look with a fabulous new wig, you should read up on how to put on a wig cap. Wig caps are optional and they have their pros and cons, but many wig wearers like to wear a wig cap for the additional comfort and extra security that they provide. If you’re new to wigs or just need a refresher, in this blog we will explain how to apply a wig cap, with a step-by-step guide.

What is a wig cap and why might you need one?

A wig cap is a piece of material that sits on your head underneath your wig – they are designed to mimic your head shape to achieve a comfortable fit. Wig caps are stretchy and thin, and typically made of bamboo viscose or nylon.

Do you need a wig cap? Well, you may choose to wear one for two key reasons. First, they help to stop your wig from sliding on your head. And second, they can help to protect your scalp, minimising any itchiness and irritation. This is especially important for anybody with total hair loss.

Wig caps are generally an inexpensive wig accessory, so it’s something worth trying if you never have one before.

Step 1 – Apply Protector Spray (Optional)

Firstly, you may want to spray your scalp with some protector spray – this is optional, but some find that the spray helps to minimise scalp irritation, particularly if you have a sensitive scalp. You can purchase scalp protector spray from most pharmacies and supermarkets.

Step 2 – Choose Your Wig Cap

Wig caps typically come in nude or black, but you can find wig caps in various shades and different sizes too. We advise choosing a cap that matches your skin tone, or as close as possible. Alternatively, you could choose a cap that is similar to the root colour of the wig you’ll be wearing. This means that if your wig moves on your head, it will be less noticeable.

Step 3 – Prepare Your Head for Applying a Wig Cap

The process of how to apply a wig cap will differ depending if you longer hair, a small amount of hair, or no hair.

If you do have hair, you need to figure out the best way to keep your hair flat to your head. This will make it easier to put on your wig cap, and ensure your wig looks as natural as possible and feels the most comfortable.

To flatten your hair, you could try plaiting it – a cornrow braiding style is one of the most effective methods. Cornrows are high plaits, so they reduce any lumps and bumps.

For ease, you may want to split your hair into four sections and create four braids. This works for hair of any length, but if your hair is longer, wrap the extra braided hair around your head and hold it down with some bobby pins. You could also try to use some water to smooth your hair down even more.

If you have a bald scalp, putting on a wig cap is more straightforward as you don’t have to worry about smoothing and concealing hair underneath it.

Step 4 – Put On and Align Your Wig Cap

Once you’re ready, put the wig cap on your head and align it with your natural hairline as accurately as possible. This is a crucial step if you want the most realistic finish.

Then, simply stretch the wig cap towards the back of your head and your nape until it feels secure and comfortable. Don’t forget to tuck the cap behind your ears so it doesn’t cover them up.

Top Tip: For those who have uneven hairlines, for example a widow’s peak, you should place the edge of the wig cap at the part of your hairline that is the lowest down, so none of the natural hair is showing alongside the wig.

Step 5 – Secure Your Wig Cap

Many wig wearers are comfortable wearing a wig cap on its own, however if you would like more security, you can always slide some bobby pins around the edges. Just make sure it’s not too tight!

This is also the time to check for any flyaway hairs sticking out from the edges of your wig cap. Carefully tuck them back underneath your wig cap to conceal them.

Step 6 – Put On Your Wig

Once your wig cap is securely in place, it’s time to put on your wig! Place your wig on top of the wig cap, aligning it with your natural hairline. However, if you have a lace front wig, you should line it up your approximately half an inch or so from your hairline instead.

When you’re happy with the positioning of your wig, you need to secure it into place.

Once you have mastered these six steps and you know how to put on a wig cap, you are one step closer to transforming your confidence with your fabulous new wig.