Why Are the Ear Tabs Digging Into My Ears?

Short Answer

Your wig is likely too tight or positioned incorrectly. Ear tab pain is common and fixable — here's how to adjust your wig for lasting comfort.

Your wig is likely too tight, positioned incorrectly, or the ear tabs themselves need adjustment. This is one of the most common — and fixable — comfort issues new wig wearers face. You're not doing anything wrong, and you don't have to live with the discomfort.

Ear tab pain is frustrating. You finally found a wig you love, and now it's literally hurting you. That pressure can make you hyperaware of your wig all day, which is exactly the opposite of what you want. The good news? This problem has straightforward solutions, and most of them don't require returning your wig or buying a new one.

What causes ear tabs to dig in?

Ear tabs are the small fabric flaps sewn into the sides of most wigs, just above your ears. They're designed to help secure the wig and give you reference points for positioning. But when they dig in, it's usually because of one of three reasons.

First, your wig might be too small or adjusted too tightly. If the straps inside the cap are pulled too tight, the entire wig compresses against your head — and the ear tabs bear the brunt of that pressure.

Second, the wig might be sitting too low on your head. When a wig slides down even slightly, the ear tabs can press directly into the cartilage of your ears instead of sitting just above them.

Third, the shape or thickness of the ear tabs themselves might not match your anatomy. Some wigs have stiffer or bulkier tabs, and if your ears sit closer to your head or are more sensitive, that material can feel intrusive.

How to adjust your wig for immediate relief

Start by loosening the adjustable straps inside your wig cap. Most wigs have hooks or Velcro straps at the nape. Loosen them by one or two notches. You might worry the wig will feel less secure, but a properly fitted wig shouldn't rely on tightness alone to stay in place.

Next, reposition your wig slightly higher on your head. Place the front edge about a half-inch above your natural hairline (or where it would be), then settle the cap back. The ear tabs should sit just above your ears — not pressing into them.

If the tabs are still uncomfortable, you can gently fold them inward or tuck them slightly under the wig cap. This works especially well if the tabs are made of a softer material. You're not damaging the wig — you're customizing it to your comfort.

Wig grips and headbands can help

A wig grip is a velvet or cotton headband that sits along your hairline under the wig. It creates friction so your wig stays put without needing to be tight. Many women in our BossCrowns community say a wig grip changed everything for them — it allowed them to loosen their wig straps without sacrificing security.

Wig grips also add a thin buffer between your skin and the wig cap, which can reduce pressure points around the ears. They're especially helpful for women with sensitive skin or those who wear their wigs all day.

You can also try a soft headband worn over the wig along your hairline. This adds a bit of cushioning and helps hold the wig in place if you've loosened it significantly.

When to modify or replace the ear tabs

If adjustments aren't enough, you can modify the ear tabs yourself. Some women carefully trim them shorter with fabric scissors, then seal the edges with clear nail polish or fabric glue to prevent fraying. Others sew a thin layer of soft cotton or moleskin over the tabs for extra cushioning.

If you're not comfortable altering the wig, a local tailor or wig specialist can do this for you. It's a simple modification that takes just a few minutes.

In some cases, the wig itself may not be the right fit for your head shape. If you've tried everything and the discomfort persists, it might be worth exploring comfortable wigs with different cap constructions. Some wigs have smaller or more flexible ear tabs, and others have cap designs that distribute pressure more evenly.

Wig fit tips for long-term comfort

Comfort isn't about tightness — it's about balance. Your wig should feel secure but not constricting. You shouldn't feel pressure points on your ears, temples, or the nape of your neck.

When you first put on your wig, give yourself a few minutes to assess the fit. Gently shake your head side to side and nod up and down. If the wig shifts slightly, that's okay. If it feels like it's squeezing your head, it's too tight.

Pay attention to your comfort throughout the day. If you notice pressure building after a few hours, it's a sign you need to readjust or loosen your wig. You're not being overly sensitive — your body is giving you useful information.

Proper wig sizing also plays a role. If you're between sizes or have a smaller head, consider petite or adjustable cap options. A wig that's too large can slide and cause you to over-tighten it, which leads to ear tab pain.

You deserve to feel comfortable

Wearing a wig shouldn't hurt. It shouldn't be something you have to tolerate or push through. Discomfort isn't a sign that wigs aren't for you — it's a sign that something needs adjusting.

You're allowed to take your time getting the fit right. You're allowed to modify your wig. You're allowed to prioritize your comfort over everything else.

This is your experience, and you get to make it work for you. The right fit is out there, and you're going to find it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my wig ear tabs hurt?

Your wig is likely too tight, sitting too low, or the ear tabs are pressing directly into your ears. Loosening the straps and repositioning the wig usually solves this.

Can I cut the ear tabs off my wig?

You can trim them shorter and seal the edges, but don't remove them completely — they help with positioning. Many women find trimming or cushioning them works well.

Will a wig grip stop ear tab pain?

Yes, often. A wig grip lets you loosen your wig straps while keeping it secure, which reduces pressure on your ears.