How do I put on a wig correctly?

Short Answer

Yes—prepare your hair flat, position the wig at your natural hairline, and secure it with straps or a wig grip. Small adjustments make all the difference.

Yes, and it's simpler than you think. Putting on a wig correctly comes down to three things: preparing your hair, positioning the wig at your natural hairline, and securing it so it feels comfortable all day. Most discomfort comes from rushing through these steps or skipping them entirely. Once you know the basics, it becomes second nature.

If you've ever felt like your wig doesn't sit right, slides around, or causes headaches, you're not alone. Many women assume the wig itself is the problem when it's actually about technique. The good news? Small adjustments make a huge difference.

Prepare your natural hair first

Before you even touch your wig, your natural hair needs to be flat against your scalp. This creates a smooth base and prevents bumps or uneven texture showing through.

For shorter hair, simply brush it back and secure it with bobby pins or a wig cap. For longer or thicker hair, braid it flat against your head in cornrows or pin it in a low bun. The flatter your hair, the more natural your wig will look and the more comfortable it will feel.

Wig caps aren't required, but they help. They keep your hair in place, create a barrier between your scalp and the wig, and make the wig easier to slide on. Choose a cap that matches your skin tone for the most natural look along your hairline.

How to position your wig at the hairline

Hold your wig at the nape (the back bottom edge) with both hands. Tilt your head forward slightly and place the front of the wig at your natural hairline. Then pull the wig back over your head until the nape sits at the base of your neck.

Your natural hairline is usually about two finger-widths above your eyebrows. If the wig sits too far forward, it'll look obvious. Too far back, and it'll feel tight and cause headaches.

Once the wig is on, adjust the ear tabs so they sit just in front of your ears. This centers the wig and keeps it balanced. Most wigs have small tabs or seams near the temples—line those up with your natural sideburns.

Secure your wig so it stays in place

If your wig has adjustable straps inside, now's the time to use them. These straps sit at the nape and let you tighten or loosen the fit. Start loose and gradually tighten until the wig feels snug but not tight. You shouldn't feel pulling or pressure on your temples.

If your wig still feels loose or shifts when you move, a wig grip can help. Wig grips are soft fabric bands that sit along your hairline under the wig. They create friction so the wig stays put without adhesive or clips. Many women in our BossCrowns community swear by them, especially for glueless wigs or active days.

For extra security, you can also use wig clips sewn into the cap or adjust the combs if your wig has them. But don't over-tighten. Comfortable wigs should feel secure, not like they're gripping your head.

Troubleshooting common fit issues

If your wig causes headaches, it's too tight. Loosen the adjustment straps or try a larger cap size. Tension headaches usually show up around your temples or the crown of your head within an hour of wearing.

If your wig slides back throughout the day, it's too loose or the cap is too big. Tighten the straps or add a wig grip. You can also try wig sizing tape along the perimeter for a custom fit.

If the wig feels itchy, the cap material might not be breathable enough, or you need a wig cap as a barrier. Bamboo or cotton wig caps help with moisture and irritation. Make sure you're also washing your wig regularly—buildup from products or oils can cause discomfort.

If the wig looks bulky or unnatural, check that your natural hair is flat. Even a small bump under the cap will show through and throw off the shape.

Wig fit tips for all-day comfort

Give yourself a few tries. The first time you put on a wig, it might feel awkward or take longer than expected. That's normal. By the third or fourth time, you'll move through the steps without thinking.

Take breaks when you need them. If you're new to wigs, your scalp might need time to adjust. Start with shorter wear times and build up as you get more comfortable.

Check your wig throughout the day. A quick adjustment in the restroom—shifting the ear tabs, smoothing the hairline—can make a big difference in how you feel. Wig sizing isn't one-and-done. Your body changes, your hair grows, and your comfort needs shift.

You're learning, not failing

If your wig doesn't feel perfect the first time, that doesn't mean you're doing it wrong. Putting on a wig correctly is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. Every woman who wears wigs has adjusted, re-adjusted, and figured out what works for her body.

Comfort isn't about perfection. It's about paying attention to how your wig feels and making small changes until it works for you. You're allowed to take your time.

You're not asking too much by wanting your wig to feel good. You deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself. And with a little patience and the right adjustments, you will.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the right way to position a wig on your head?

Place the front of the wig at your natural hairline—about two finger-widths above your eyebrows—then pull it back until the nape sits at the base of your neck.

How do I keep my wig from sliding around?

Tighten the adjustment straps inside the cap, or use a wig grip for extra hold. Wig grips create friction without adhesive and work especially well for glueless wigs.

Why does my wig give me headaches?

Your wig is likely too tight. Loosen the adjustment straps or try a larger cap size to relieve tension around your temples and crown.