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Preparing for Installation
If you are new to the world of lace front wigs, the process of its installation may seem to be a daunting task. But with proper guidance and a bit of practice, you can learn to install a lace front wig like a pro. Before diving into the installation process, you need to prepare a few things to ensure a perfect and hassle-free installation. In this article, we will guide you through the preparation needed before installing a lace front wig.
Choose the Right Wig
The very first step towards preparing for the installation of a lace front wig is to select the right wig that matches your hair color and texture. While purchasing a wig, make sure to measure your head size properly to prevent any discomfort or slipping issues while wearing the wig. Choose a lace front wig that fits your head snugly and leaves no room for movement. Check that the wig cap size matches the size of your head, and try to buy a wig that has adjustable straps to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Prepare Your Natural Hair
Before you install a lace front wig, it is essential to prepare your natural hair. Firstly, make sure to wash and condition your hair properly and let it air dry completely. Next, braid your natural hair closely to the scalp to create a flat base for the wig to lie on. If you have shorter hair, consider using a wig cap to hold and cover your hair for a more natural and secure look. Ensure that there are no bumps or ridges on your scalp, as it can create an uneven base for the wig.
Cut the Lace
Another crucial step towards preparing for the lace front wig installation process is to cut the lace of the wig. The lace is the sheer material that sits at the front of the wig and blends with your natural hairline. Before cutting the lace, ensure that you have a steady hand, a pair of sharp scissors, and a clear view of the hairline. Cut along the hairline of the wig, leaving only a very thin layer of lace to prevent it from fraying. Be cautious and avoid cutting any hair on the wig while trimming the lace.
Test the Wig
Before installing the lace front wig, it is essential to test the wig first. Place the wig on your head and adjust it to fit your head correctly. Look for any loose or tight areas and make the necessary adjustments by tightening or loosening the adjustable straps. To ensure the wig looks natural, check that the hairline sits flush against your forehead and that both sides of the wig’s ear tabs sit evenly across your face. Shake the wig gently to see how it moves naturally on your head.
Have Wig Accessories Handy
Finally, before starting the installation process, prepare the essential accessories that you may need during the installation. Keep a wig cap, bobby pins, and a wig adhesive (if needed) handy to help to secure the wig in place. You can use bobby pins to create extra stability or to keep stray hair in place. A wig adhesive can be used to keep the wig in place, especially if you plan on wearing it for an extended period.
By following these essential preparation steps, you can achieve a perfect lace front wig installation that looks natural and feels comfortable. Always remember that practice makes perfect, so take your time and practice the installation process until you are entirely confident.
Measuring and Cutting the Lace
One of the most crucial steps in installing a lace front wig is measuring and cutting the lace to fit your hairline. Since the wig is designed to imitate a natural hairline, the lace must be cut precisely to make it blend seamlessly into your skin. Failing to measure and cut the lace correctly can result in an unnatural and unflattering appearance of the wig. Therefore, in this step-by-step tutorial, we will show you how to measure and cut the lace properly to achieve a more natural look.
To get started, you will need the following items:
- A lace front wig
- A wig cap
- A measuring tape or ruler
- A pair of scissors
Preparing the Wig
Before you begin cutting the lace, it’s essential to prepare the wig. First, wear the wig cap and adjust it so that it fits snugly over your head, covering your hair. Next, put the wig on over the wig cap and adjust it so that it’s sitting comfortably on your head. Make sure that the front of the wig aligns with your natural hairline.
Measuring the Lace
To measure the lace, use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the distance between your natural hairline and the start of the wig’s lace. This measurement will vary depending on the style and size of the wig. However, a general guideline is to measure at least two inches back from your natural hairline to ensure that there is enough room for adjustments. Be gentle when measuring so that you can achieve a more accurate measurement.
Cutting the Lace
Once you have measured the lace, mark the point where you will cut it off. You can use a white eyeliner or a light-colored pencil to mark the spot. Make sure to cut the lace according to your hairline shape. If you are not sure about the shape of your hairline, refer to the instructions provided by the wig manufacturer or seek help from a professional hairstylist. Note that cutting the lace too close to your hairline will make the wig appear unnatural. Therefore, it’s better to err on the side of caution and cut off less lace than you think you need.
After cutting the lace, use a pair of scissors to cut off any excess lace around the edges of the wig. Be careful not to cut off too much, as this can cause fraying. Use the scissors to cut off small sections of the lace at a time to prevent making any mistakes or accidents.
Customizing the Hairline
To customize the hairline further, you can pluck a few strands of hair along the hairline to mimic the natural hairline’s thinness. This step is optional, but it can make the wig appear more natural and realistic. Be careful not to overpluck, as this can make the hairline appear balding.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to style and wear your lace front wig with confidence. With proper measurement and cutting, your wig will blend seamlessly into your skin, allowing for a more natural appearance and a boost of confidence.
Applying Adhesive to the Lace
When it comes to lace front wig installation, it is important to apply the right adhesive to ensure the wig stays in place throughout the day. There are various types of adhesives available on the market, including liquid and tape. You should choose an adhesive that suits your lifestyle, hair type, and skin type. It’s also important to do a patch test to avoid any allergic reactions.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to use a water-based adhesive that is free from harsh chemicals such as silicone, latex, and formaldehyde, which can cause skin irritation and itching. Liquid adhesives such as ghost bond are popular because they provide a secure hold without damaging your natural hair or the lace wig. They are also waterproof and sweat-proof, so you don’t have to worry about the wig shifting or coming off while you engage in physical activity or encounter wet conditions.
To apply the adhesive, start by preparing the skin around your hairline. Clean the area with a gentle cleanser and water to remove any oils or dirt. After drying, you can apply a scalp protector with a cotton swab around your hairline to protect your skin from the adhesive. This step is essential for those with sensitive skin to avoid irritation and redness.
Next, you can apply the adhesive to the lace of the wig using a brush or a cotton swab. Make sure you apply the adhesive evenly around the hairline, avoiding applying too close to the edges of the hairline. A good rule of thumb is to leave a quarter-inch space around the entire perimeter of your hairline before applying the adhesive to the lace.
Once the adhesive has been applied, it’s time to attach the wig. Line up the wig with the hairline and adjust it to a comfortable position. Once you are happy with the placement of the wig, press the lace evenly onto your skin using your fingers or a scarf to create a smooth, seamless look. Be careful not to touch the adhesive until it is dry and don’t apply any pressure to the wig before the adhesive has cured.
Finally, style the wig to your liking and use a light hairspray to tame any flyaways. To remove the wig, use a lace wig solvent or a hair oil to dissolve the adhesive. Be gentle when removing the wig to avoid damaging the lace or your natural hair.
In conclusion, applying adhesive to the lace front wig is an important step in the installation process. By following these tips, wearing a lace front wig will become easy and comfortable for you and will make you feel your best. Remember to choose the right adhesive for your hair type and lifestyle and always do a patch test to avoid irritation. With these tips, you’re ready to slay your lace front wig installation!
Placing and Securing the Wig
Once you have prepared your head and your lace front wig, it’s time to place and secure the wig properly. Follow the steps outlined below to achieve a natural and secure look.
Step 1: Adjust the Wig Cap
Before starting the installation process, make sure that the wig cap fits perfectly on your head and that it’s in the right position. Use the adjustment straps or combs to achieve a tighter or looser fit and ensure that the cap covers your hairline completely. Some people prefer to wear a wig cap underneath the lace front wig to minimize slippage and protect their natural hair.
Step 2: Apply Adhesive
Apply a thin layer of adhesive such as glue or tape to your natural hairline, or directly to the underside of the wig’s lace. Do not overdo the amount of adhesive as it can damage both your scalp and the lace. Remember to let the adhesive dry for a few minutes before placing the wig on your head.
Step 3: Position the Wig
After the adhesive has dried, position the wig on your head by aligning the center part of the wig with the center of your forehead. Gently place the lace down while pressing the wig into the adhesive. Be cautious not to stretch the lace or shift the wig out of place.
Step 4: Cut and Style the Wig
Once you have secured the wig in place, it’s time to cut and style the wig. Carefully trim the lace around your forehead and ears using sharp scissors, making sure not to cut your natural hair. If you’re new to wig cutting and styling, it’s best to consult with a professional hairstylist to get the desired look. You can further customize your wig with curlers, straighteners, or a blow dryer to achieve the perfect look for any occasion.
Step 5: Final Touches
Now that you have installed your lace front wig, it’s time to make sure that it looks as natural as possible. Use some concealer or foundation to match your natural skin tone to fill any gaps between the lace and your forehead. Gently tug the wig to make sure it’s securely attached before you’re good to go. If you encounter any issue, adjust it as required.
Installing a lace front wig requires practice, patience, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can install and secure your lace front wig with confidence and enjoy a transformed look that’s indistinguishable from your natural hair.
Styling and Finishing Touches
Now that your lace front wig is installed properly, it’s time to style and add finishing touches to give it that natural look that makes it hard to distinguish from your natural hair.
The first step in styling your wig is to make sure it is clean and free from tangles. Use a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush to gently comb through the hair, starting at the bottom and working your way up to the roots. Avoid brushing the hair when it is wet, as this can cause damage and breakage.
Next, you can choose to use heat styling tools to create different looks for your wig, such as curls or straight styles. When using heat styling tools, make sure to protect the hair with a heat protectant spray or serum and use a low to medium heat setting to prevent damage to the hair fibers.
Another option for styling your wig is to use different hair accessories such as headbands, clips, and scarves. These accessories can add a pop of color or a unique style to your wig while also helping to keep it in place.
In addition to styling, adding finishing touches to your lace front wig is important to give it a natural appearance. One way to achieve this is by adding baby hair to the front of the wig. Baby hair refers to the small, fine hairs that grow naturally around the hairline. To create baby hair on your wig, use a small pair of scissors or a razor to trim the hairline and create small wispy hairs that frame the face.
Another important finishing touch is to blend the lace front of the wig with your natural skin tone. You can do this by using a concealer or foundation that matches your skin tone to lightly apply to the lace front of the wig. This will create a seamless transition from the wig to your skin and give a natural appearance.
Finally, it’s important to maintain your lace front wig with proper care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. This includes washing and conditioning the wig regularly, storing it properly when not in use, and avoiding harsh chemicals or styling products that can damage the hair fibers.
In conclusion, styling and adding finishing touches to your lace front wig is an important step in achieving a natural and flawless look. Whether you choose to use heat styling tools, hair accessories, or baby hair, taking the time to care for and style your wig will ensure that it looks great and lasts for many wears to come.