What accessories do I absolutely need for my first wig?

Short Answer

Fewer than you think. Your first wig needs a cap, maybe a brush, and not much else. Here's how to decide what's essential based on your lifestyle.

Honestly? Fewer than you think. Your first wig doesn't require a full toolkit or a special storage system. What you actually need depends on the wig type you choose and how you plan to wear it. If you're buying a beginner-friendly glueless wig, you might need almost nothing beyond the wig itself. If you're exploring lace front styles or want extra security, a few simple essentials will help.

The wig industry loves to sell accessories. Some are genuinely useful. Others collect dust. When you're just starting out, it's easy to feel like you need everything before you even try your first wig on. That pressure doesn't serve you.

This guide breaks down what's truly essential for your first wig, what's optional, and how to decide based on your lifestyle and comfort level. No overwhelm. Just clarity.

The only true essential: a wig cap

A wig cap sits between your scalp and your wig. It flattens your natural hair (if you have any), protects your scalp, and helps the wig grip more securely. It also absorbs oil and sweat, which keeps your wig cleaner longer.

Most wigs don't come with a cap included, so this is the one accessory you'll want from day one. Wig caps come in nude, brown, and black tones. Choose one that matches your scalp or the wig's interior color.

There are two main types: nylon caps (smooth, stretchy, affordable) and mesh caps (breathable, great for sensitive scalps). Start with nylon unless you know your scalp runs warm or irritated easily.

Cost: Usually under $10 for a multi-pack. You'll replace them regularly, so buy a few at once.

Do you need wig glue or tape?

Not necessarily. Many first-time wig buyers assume they need adhesive to keep a wig on. That's not true for most beginner wigs.

If you're wearing a glueless wig with adjustable straps and combs, you don't need glue or tape at all. These wigs are designed to stay put through friction, fit, and built-in clips.

If you're wearing a lace front wig and want an ultra-flat hairline, you might use wig tape or glue along the front edge. But even then, it's optional. Many women wear lace fronts without any adhesive and feel completely secure.

Wig tape is gentler and easier to remove than glue. If you want to experiment with adhesive, start there. Glue offers a stronger hold but requires more care during removal.

Bottom line: Don't buy adhesive until you've tried your wig without it. You might not need it at all.

What about a wig stand or mannequin head?

A wig stand is helpful, but not urgent. It keeps your wig's shape intact when you're not wearing it and makes styling easier. But plenty of women store their first wig in its original packaging or on a hook for weeks before investing in a stand.

If you're wearing your wig daily and taking it off at night, a stand becomes more useful. It lets the wig breathe and prevents tangling.

Collapsible wig stands cost around $10 and work well for storage. Mannequin heads (around $15–25) are sturdier and better if you plan to style or customize your wig.

Wait until you know how often you'll wear your wig before deciding. You don't need this on day one.

Essential wig accessories for beginners: a realistic starter list

Here's what most first-time wig buyers actually use in their first month:

Wig cap: Yes. This is non-negotiable for comfort and security.

Wide-tooth comb or wig brush: Yes, if your wig is longer than shoulder length or has texture. Regular brushes can damage wig fibers. A wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for wigs prevents shedding and frizz. Cost: $5–12.

Wig shampoo and conditioner: Not immediately. Your wig won't need washing for at least 1–2 weeks of wear (longer if you're only wearing it occasionally). When the time comes, use products made for synthetic or human hair wigs depending on what you bought. You can add this to your wig buying guide after your first few wears.

Wig grip or headband: Optional, but popular. A wig grip is a soft band that sits along your hairline under the wig. It adds extra security and comfort, especially if you're active or don't have much natural hair for the wig to grip. Cost: $10–15.

Satin or silk pillowcase or scarf: Not wig-specific, but worth it. Sleeping on satin reduces friction, which means less tangling and frizz. If you plan to sleep in your wig occasionally, this helps. Cost: $10–20.

How to choose a wig accessory based on your lifestyle

Your needs depend on how you'll wear your wig and what your daily life looks like.

If you're wearing your wig daily: Prioritize a wig cap, a brush or comb, and a wig stand. These will become part of your routine quickly.

If you're wearing your wig occasionally: Start with just a wig cap. Store the wig in its box or a breathable bag. Add accessories as you go.

If you're active (gym, running, dancing): Consider a wig grip or headband for extra security. You might also want a travel case if you'll be changing in locker rooms.

If you have little to no natural hair: A wig cap is even more important for comfort. A wig grip can also help the wig feel more secure without hair to anchor to.

If you're exploring lace fronts: You might eventually want wig tape, a lace tint spray (to match the lace to your skin tone), and small scissors for trimming the lace. But don't buy these until you're ready to customize.

You'll learn your own preferences quickly. Many women in our BossCrowns community say they over-bought accessories at first and only use two or three regularly.

What you don't need (but might see marketed everywhere)

The wig industry will try to sell you a lot of things. Here's what you can skip for now:

Wig styling products (sprays, gels, serums): Most beginner wigs come pre-styled. Synthetic wigs hold their style without product. Human hair wigs can be styled with regular products if needed.

Wig liners or bamboo caps: These are luxury versions of regular wig caps. They're softer and more breathable, but a standard cap works just fine at first.

Lace glue remover or scalp protectant: Only necessary if you're using adhesive. Don't buy these preemptively.

Wig steamer: Helpful for advanced styling, but not something a first-time buyer needs. A bathroom full of shower steam works similarly for refreshing synthetic wigs.

Travel case: Nice to have eventually, but your wig's original packaging works fine for now.

Start simple, add as you learn

Your first wig experience should feel approachable, not expensive or complicated. The best beginner wig tips come down to this: buy less, learn more, adjust as you go.

You don't need a full setup to start. You need a wig that fits well, a cap for comfort, and maybe a brush. Everything else can wait until you know what you actually want.

Wig shopping tips that matter most? Focus on the wig itself first. Choose a style that fits your lifestyle and a construction type that matches your experience level. Accessories support the wig, but they don't make or break your experience.

How to choose a wig starts with understanding what you need it to do for you. The same goes for accessories. Let your real life guide you, not a checklist someone else wrote.

You'll figure out your rhythm. You'll learn which tools make your routine easier and which ones sit unused in a drawer. That's normal. That's part of the process.

You're not behind. You're exactly where you need to be. Start with the essentials, trust yourself, and add what makes sense when it makes sense. You've got this.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to buy with my first wig?

At minimum, a wig cap. Depending on your wig type and length, you might also want a wide-tooth comb or wig brush. Everything else can wait.

Do I need wig glue to keep my wig secure?

No. Most beginner wigs have adjustable straps and combs that hold the wig in place without any adhesive. Try your wig without glue first.

Can I use regular hair products on my wig?

Not on synthetic wigs—they're pre-styled and don't need products. Human hair wigs can handle regular styling products, but it's rarely necessary at first.