How Long Does Wig Installation Take? Your Complete Guide
If you're a newbie to wigs or just want to shake up your look, the first thing that probably comes to mind is: how long does it really take to install a wig? The answer is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on the type of wig, the installation method, and the experience of your stylist (or you). Let's break it down so you know exactly how the installation process works and how you can make the whole process smoother.
Factors That Affect Wig Installation Time
Various factors influence how long the wig installation lasts. Below, we’ll explore the most important ones so you can better plan your styling session.
⚡ Your Experience Level: Newbies might spend 2+ hours fumbling with adhesive, while experts can nail it in 30 minutes.
🌟 Hair Prep: Detangling, braiding, or smoothing your natural hair adds 15–45 minutes. (Skipping this? Expect bulk or slippage!)
🎨 Wig Type: Lace fronts demand precision; glueless wigs are basically "shake-and-go."
💖 Products Used: Adhesives need drying time; clips or bands? Instant grip.
✨ Complexity: Customizing the hairline or cutting lace? Add 20+ minutes.
Different Installation Methods and Their Timing
Let’s break down the most common types of wig installations and how long each typically takes—from start to finish.
Popular for its natural, melted hairline, this method is time-consuming.
Time: 1.5 to 3 hours
1️⃣ Prep Natural Hair: Braid down or slick back your natural hair.
2️⃣ Skin Prep: Cleanse the hairline and apply scalp protector.
3️⃣ Wig Fitting: Place and align the wig with your natural hairline.
4️⃣ Glue Application: Apply adhesive in layers, letting each dry before applying the wig.
5️⃣ Wig Attachment: Press the lace into place and blow-dry for security.
6️⃣ Lace Cutting & Melting: Trim lace and use melting spray for a seamless hairline.
7️⃣ Styling: Curling, straightening, or laying baby hairs.
Sew-ins are secure and long-lasting, but require a significant installation time commitment.
Time: 2 to 4 hours
1️⃣ Hair Prep: Hair is washed, conditioned, and braided down.
2️⃣ Cap Application (optional): A wig cap is placed over the braids.
3️⃣ Wig or Bundles Sewn In: Using a curved needle and thread, the wig or wefts are sewn securely.
4️⃣ Leave-out Blending (if any): Natural hair left out is blended with the wig.
5️⃣ Styling: Final touches, curling, straightening, and so on.
Sew-ins are secure and long-lasting, but require a significant installation time commitment.
Time: 2 to 4 hours
1️⃣ Hair Prep: Hair is washed, conditioned, and braided down.
2️⃣ Cap Application (optional): A wig cap is placed over the braids.
3️⃣ Wig or Bundles Sewn In: Using a curved needle and thread, the wig or wefts are sewn securely.
4️⃣ Leave-out Blending (if any): Natural hair left out is blended with the wig.
5️⃣ Styling: Final touches, curling, straightening, and so on.
