Ensuring your wig is secure and your actual hair is well hidden under it can seem like a challenge. That’s why we’re talking about everything you need to know on how to put on a cosplay wig so it holds for the whole con or photoshoot.

How to Put on Wigs

  • Step 1. Prep your actual hair – You need your natural hair to be as flat as possible for a smooth wig fit. Slick it back as much as possible. For longer hair, you can braid it and pin it on top of your head to ensure nothing falls out the back.
  • Step 2. Put on a wig cap – Make sure to put on a comfortable, well sized wig cap to keep your actual hair from poking through. The netted options are typically better for still being able to pin the wig to your hair.
    • Note: To prevent your wig cap from sliding back, insert bobby pins in a crisscross pattern near your temples and the nape of your neck.
  • Step 3. Adjust the wig size – Most wigs can be adjusted to ensure proper fit for a more realistic look. Use the adjustable straps or hooks to make changes. You want the wig to feel snug but not painfully tight.
  • Step 4. Position and put on the wig – Hold the wig from the front edge and line it up with the center of your forehead. Then pull it down and stretch it backwards over your head so it covers the entire wig cap. Make sure the hard plastic or metal tabs at the bottom sides of the wig line up evenly above your ears.
  • Step 5. Secure the wig – To ensure the wig doesn’t slide back or fall off, secure it by inserting bobby pins through the wig wefts and into your hair underneath. You can also use wig glue/tape or spirit gum to help secure at the front.

How to Wear Lace Front Wigs

Wearing a lace front wig is similar to putting on any cosplay wig. There is two key steps you have to account for though:

  • Trim the excess lace – While wearing the new wig, line up your hairline with your natural hairline. Then with small scissors, cut off the excess lace.
  • Glue down the wig – Lace front wigs need to be glued down at the hairline. Use either wig tape, wig glue or spirit gum along the lace at the wig’s hairline to adhere it to your head.

How to Glue Lace Front Wigs

  • Check the placement – Put on the wig without glue to determine exactly where the wig’s hairline should sit.
  • Apply adhesive – Apply your adhesive of choice just in front of your natural hairlinhe.
  • Press down the lace – Gently press down on the lace onto the adhesive. Start in the center and slowly press outward toward your ears.

How Do You Wear a Wig All Day

These tips will help you to wear a wig all day for cons, photoshoots and more.

  • Wear a wig cap under your wig
  • For people with long hair, use flat braids and avoid a high ponytail for your actual hair
  • Properly adjust your wig’s size to fit snuggly
  • Use an adhesive to glue down the front of the wig
  • Use bobby pins to secure the wig to your actual hair underneath

How to Change the Size of Your Wig

Most wigs will have adjustable elastic straps with hooks or velcro tabs to change the size. Simply move the hooks to the inner notches to make the cap tighter or move outward for a larger fit. Then secure the elastic.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: there may be a few links in this post that are affiliate links. Clicking these links or making purchases through these links can help support myself and this blog.

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