No matter how many times you’ve worn a wig, you probably still have a fear of it coming off your head. Whether you’re shaking your tresses during a night out, or just taking your dog for a walk, secure hair is a necessity.
So, how do you secure a wig? There are several ways to ensure your wig isn’t gone with the wind, so we’ve wrapped up our four favorites below:
1. Use a Wig Grip
One of the most popular options for securing a unit is with a wig grip. It’s easy to put on and incredibly effective at keeping a wig from slipping. It’s a versatile option whether you have a lot of natural hair or very little, a 360 wig, or a lace frontal. Basically, this one handy strip of fabric is a must-have in your wig-wearing toolbox.
How Does a Wig Grip Work?
Most wig grip bands are made of double-sided velvet, which resists fabric slipping. Have you ever used a velvet hanger? It’s the same idea–the clothes don’t slip off the hanger!
A wig grip band is flexible and wraps around your head with a Velcro attachment at the nape of your neck. It’s easily adjustable for different head sizes and is a great solution for how to keep a wig on without adhesives. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
• Protects edges
• Washable
• Reduces friction between head and lace on unit
• Less pressure on your head, which may help prevent headaches
Cons
• May lose elasticity over time
• Won’t secure the unit for long periods of time
2. Use Clips and Bobby Pins for Added Security
There’s nothing like a good ‘ol fashioned clip or bobby pin to help keep your wig from moving around. A handful of bobby pins are a great tool for ladies with a lot of natural hair to secure, for last-minute hair touch-ups, or if the unit doesn’t come with clips installed. Bobby pins also prevent excessive pulling that adhesives and combs may cause.
Purchase plenty of bobby pins that are close to your natural hair color. Use them to pin braids, flat twists, or loose hair close to your head. After you place the unit on your head, use bobby pins to secure it into your hair or braids if you have them.
For a longer-term solution for how to keep a wig on, wig clips (or combs) are a great option. Many units come with clips pre-installed, but you can add your own, too! For pre-installed clips, simply place the unit on your head and slide the clip or comb into your hair. The goal is to get a firm grip on the hair so the unit does not move.
If you have sensitive skin, be mindful when using clips and combs. They may irritate your skin or pull on the hair causing discomfort or hair loss. If you notice this happening, try one of our other tips for how to secure a wig.
3. Use a Wig Cap
When you’re wearing wigs, it’s super important to get your natural hair as flat as possible, lumpy wigs can look unnatural. One way to get that unit lying flat is by wearing a wig cap.
Wigs naturally have a cap that the hair is attached to but wearing an additional cap can help you answer the question of how to secure a wig and make it look natural. Caps typically come in two types:
• Mesh Cap: Good for long hair, preventing slippage, and aerating the scalp for sensitive skin
• Nylon Cap: Secures hair, prevents slippage, and keeps wig unit cleaner
Both types of caps can be found in a variety of colors to match your hair and keep your human hair wig looking natural.
4. For Long-Term Security: Use Adhesive
If you really want a wig that doesn’t budge, adhesives are the solution. Wig glue and wig tape provide long-term support that can last days or even a week! Of course, using glue or tape has some drawbacks like difficulty removing adhesive and possible damage hair and scalp. Use these with caution and always test a patch of skin to make sure you’re not allergic.
For women who want that extra security, or if you have minimal hair and want to know how to keep a wig on, adhesive may be very useful. Here are a few tricks for using glue or tape:
• Prepare the skin where you will apply adhesive by cleaning the skin with alcohol.
• Use scalp protector before applying glue.
• Use a brush to help you apply the glue without getting it on your fingers.
• Use bobby pins to add extra security.
If you prefer not to use adhesive, Got2Be gel is a great option for securing your wig, and can be removed with water when you’re ready to take it off.
High-Quality Wigs Make a Difference
When it comes to how to secure a wig, it’s more than just the tools and adhesives. The type of unit you wear also matters. Investing in a high-quality, 100% virgin, human hair wig gives you the most sturdy, long-lasting unit possible.
Units like Mayvenn’s lace front wigs, 360 lace wigs, and ready-to-wear wigs offer customizable hairlines, virgin lace, and clips so that securing your wig is snap. Literally. Virgin human hair is better for your skin, breathes better than synthetic wigs, and can be styled just the way you like it. With proper care for your human hair wig, you’ll be enjoying those luscious, secure locks for months or even years to come! Hold your crown high and shake those beautiful strands with confidence.