How to style a wig: tips and inspired ideas
Wigs have surely become a diverse and fascinating technique to transform your appearance in an instant. In this guide, I will draw on expert knowledge to teach the secrets of styling your style wig. I've also shown you a few recommendations for appropriate haircuts based on wig type. Please join me on my wig styling journey.
How to Style a Human Hair Wig?
As someone who routinely wears human hair wigs, I like how well they mix with my natural hairline and respond to style, just like real hair! Here's my tried-and-true method for styling human hair wigs while keeping them smooth, shiny, and long-lasting.
Prep with the Right Products
Since human hair wigs don’t receive natural scalp oils, they need extra moisture to stay soft and manageable. My must-haves? A hydrating wig conditioner with a mild serum to help reduce frizz.
Get a Wig Stand
Using a wig stand provides a 360-degree view of your wig while also freeing up your hands for fantastic style. It is easier to navigate with your wig properly placed than to style it after you have put it on.
Let the Wig Dry Completely
I discovered the hard way that grooming a damp wig can loosen the lace and deform the cap. Now, I always let my wig dry completely—either on a wig stand or with a blow-dryer set to low heat—before touching it with any instruments.
Comb It Gently
Brush the wig gently from the bottom up with a wide-toothed comb. Avoid pulling on the hair strands or harming the lace on the wig. However, the style varies depending on hair texture.
✨ For curly wigs: Scrunch and twirl the sections of the wig to give them more bounce.
✨ For wavy wigs: Use your fingers to loosely separate and style the waves.
✨ For Straight wigs: Smooth the wig with a paddle brush to create the perfect look of smoothness and shine.
Heat Things Up (Carefully)
To protect the hair while curling or straightening, I keep my flat iron or curling wand set to a moderate temperature (about 300-350°F). However, for heat style, always use a heat protectant spray.
Experiment with Hairstyles
Tailor It
If I want a better fit or a more customized look, I take my wig to a hairdresser. A modest trim, face-framing layers, or even a color change can make it appear more natural and attractive.
8 Inspo Ideas for Styling a Wig
I've included a list of some popular and simple hairstyles for your convenience. You can also select to style your hair based on the type of wig you have.
Half Up Half Down
Half up, half down hairstyles require a wider lace area and can be styled with both full lace and lace front wigs. These wigs provide enough flexibility to style some of the hair up while leaving others down.
Braided Hairstyle
I recommend using a 13x4 lace front wig or a full lace wig because the huge lace area allows for easy braided styling. It's worth noting that Sterlyhair also provides braided wigs with two shapes to pick from, allowing you to get a sophisticated look with minimal effort.
Deep Side Parting
If you like deep side part, make sure to use a 7x5 lace wig, a full lace wig will also work, though the former is a bit more popular. The larger the lace area, the more obvious the parting effect.
Messy Bun
5x5 closure wigs, or full lace wigs, are recommended; these wigs provide a natural hairline and allow for a variety of parting options.
Sleek Straight Hairstyle
Along with wave, curly, straight is one of the very common wig textures. If you purchase a wig that is not straight, then you can use a hair straightener, but make sure that you are using real human hair and sprayed with heat protection spray.
Voluminous Curls
Turn heads with big, bouncy curls. Use foam rollers on synthetic wigs or a curling iron for human hair wigs.
High Ponytail
The best wigs for high ponytails are ponytail extensions, but of course, you can also use a full lace wig, which is a large lace style that is more flexible and can be achieved even with a high ponytail.
Hair Clips
The easiest and quickest way to style a wig is to use some headpieces, such as bows, clips, etc., to accent your hair. Put on your favorite wig and decorate your hair.
Wig Styling FAQs: Your Questions Answered!
Can I Use Heat on My Wig?
Yes—but only if it’s a human hair wig or a heat-friendly synthetic one. Always double-check the care instructions first, and don’t forget a heat protectant spray to keep those strands happy!
How often should I style my wig?
It actually depends on how often you wear it! A little touch-up here and there is good for daily use, but if you're washing it thoroughly, you might want to restyle it afterwards to keep things fresh.
What Is the Best Way to Prevent Tangles?
Begin brushing softly from the ends and work your way up to avoid tugging. When your wig is not in use, place it on a wig stand to prevent tangling.
Can I dye my wig?
What about human hair wigs? Absolutely! Dye will not stick to synthetic wigs, so try colored sprays or dyed overlays for a fun, temporary alteration.
Summary
These are some of the ways to style wigs. Furthermore, maintaining and caring for wigs in everyday life is crucial. If you have any questions, please leave a note.
