In order to maintain, shape and style your wigs, it’s vital that the right tools are used. Otherwise you could end up with poor results or a damaged wig. Everything from styling products to brushes must be selected wisely. In this guide, we’re going over all the vital wig supplies for cosplay that you need. We’ll also look at what specifically is safe for different wig types such as synthetic.
Hair Glue for Wigs
When discussing hair glue, there’s two options you could be looking at. There’s glue that you use on your wig to make wefts or attachments, and then glue to hold your wig to your head. We’re going to cover both.
Glue to Assemble Wigs & Wefts
- UHU – This multipurpose glue is my favorite. It’s great for assembling, adding attachments and creating wefts as well.
- Hot Glue – I personally prefer Surebonder hot glue guns and sticks for all of my cosplay crafting. Hot glue can be used for attachments and other assembling of your wigs. Keep in mind whether the material type can handle high heat or look for a low heat hot glue gun options instead.
- Clear tacky glue – You’ll want to ensure you are getting a clear version or it will be visible in your wig to others. Tacky glue isn’t the strongest adhesive but can work perfect on wigs.
Wig Glue
- Got2b Glued Bonding Glue – Got2b is one of my favorite brands for wig supplies. Their bonding glue can be used to help keep your wig secured to your head. Be sure to also get the remover so you can take your wig off safely.
- Wig tape – An alternative to glue is tape. There’s plenty of double sided wig tape options out there you can choose from that are very secure and safe on your skin.
- Lace specific wig glue – If you are wearing a lace front or full lace wig, you need to make sure whatever glue you choose can safely be used on it.
Styling Products for Wigs
While glues to create wefts and and assemble wigs can be listed here, these are styling products you can use minus glues. You need to be sure though that these types of product are safe to use on the specific wig you’re styling.
Styling Products for Synthetic Wigs
- Got2b Ultra Glued styling gel – As I said, I love Got2b for wig supplies and so does most of the cosplay community. For a styling gel, I recommend their ultra glued option. Their products are great for creating gravity defying wigs that are stiff and safe from falling flat.
- Got2b Glued styling spiking glue – If you want to style an anime wig with lot’s of spikes, Got2b still has you covered. They make a specific spiking glue you can use.
Hairspray for Wigs
- Got2b Glued blasting freeze spray – I typically use the spray wax most, but plenty of cosplayers also recommend the blasting freeze spray too.
- Got2b Glued spray wax – This is what I have used on every heavily styled wig I have. From the curled bang on Princess Carolyn to my bangs on Starfire, this product just works. Keep in mind, with most gels and sprays though some level of residue may show especially over time.
Tools & Brushes for Wigs
- Crimper – Crimping is a popular technique in styling wigs. Thus a crimper is a great tool to purchase for wig styling. Keep in mind the heat resistance of the material your wig is made from and whether you need high or low heat.
- Hair clips – The alligator clips are great for holding hair in place or out of the way while you style. These can be found at affordable places like Sally’s Beauty or T.J. Maxx.
- Flat iron/Curling iron – Similar to the crimper, you want to consider what heat levels your wig can handle. For wigs that can use low heat for styling, put these on a lower setting and carefully style your wig to be curled or have flat sections.
- Garment steamer – When using curlers or wigs you don’t want to be obviously covered in hair spray, use a garment steamer. The heat can help to shape and style your wig.
- Curlers – I would avoid the curlers with Velcro, but these are great for curling a wig with your garment steamer as mentioned above.
- Scissors – There is 2 types of scissors you’ll want to have so you can trim and shape your wig. You want a pair of regular scissors specifically designed for hair or wigs and a pair of thinning scissors as well.
Best Brush for Synthetic Wigs
- Teasing brush – Teasing is vital with creating large, gravity defying wigs. A good teasing brush that is safe for your synthetic wig is vital to avoid breakages to the wig hair.
- Wide toothed and fine toothed combs – You want a variety of comb options to help you achieve all wig styles.
- Loop brush – These are a little more gentle on your wig’s cap. The loop bristles help prevent snagging and can also be used on extensions too.
- Detangling and styling brush – For a wig in dire need of detangling, you’ll want a standard brush to help get out the knots.
Shampoo & Conditioner for Wigs
Either before or after styling, you need to shampoo and condition your wig. Be it to prep it before you begin styling or after if you want to remove your hard work from the wig.
Shampoo for Synthetic Wigs
- Awesome synthetic wig shampoo – I chose this brand of shampoo since I had been using their conditioner with lots of success. I felt equally happy cleaning my wigs with their shampoo too.
Conditioner for Synthetic Wigs
- Awesome leave in conditioner – I prep every wig by spraying it with this easy-to-use, leave-in conditioner. It works well to keep the wig silky and detangled.
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