What is the best way to secure your wig?
You may have decided to wear a wig as a consequence of a medical condition, or due to medical treatment. Or, you may just want to look fabulous. Either way, it’s important to know how to secure a wig on your head effectively, especially when the winds pick up!
Understanding how to get a wig to stay on your head comfortably and securely can feel overwhelming as there’s so many wig styles and wig accessories out there to try. In this article, we’re going to help you with how to choose a wig that will stay in place and how to use accessories for added comfort, reassurance and a natural look.
How to secure a wig
If you’re wondering how to secure a wig, you first need to consider the actual wig you’re purchasing. Many high-quality wigs have clever wig attachments sewn into the construction for a uniquely comfortable and secure fit.
Remember though – the security features will depend upon the wig that you have purchased. Each wig design may have different features. Take a look at the ‘What’s Inside’ section, which is available for every wig on the Simply Wigs website. This will give you a detailed photo of the cap design.
An example Cap Construction
(A) Lace Front, (B) Ear Tab, (C) Hand-Tied Body, (D) Nape Comfort Strip
Many wigs have a non-slip poly strip section at the front of the wig, located where your natural hairline would sit. This area provides a slight suction effect, so these strips are fabulous in preventing your wig from slipping. Adjustable pull straps are often included in the wig construction for a perfect fit. These are located at the nape of the neck, and there is usually around an inch of give, so the wig can be easily slackened or tightened depending on the size of your head.
Choosing a high-quality wig from a reputable brand will give you the best chance of having a secure wig, even if you’re also using additional accessories.
Preparation: Like many things, a faultless foundation is the key to success. Securing your wig is no different, and preparing your head before applying your wig ensures an easier application. If you have hair then you will need to fix your hair close to the scalp, so there are no visible hairs or bumps when wearing your wig.
+ For wig wearers with longer hair, you can separate your hair into two pigtails, creating tight twists, which you then cross over and fix at the nape of your neck with hair grips.
+ Shorter hair can simply be combed back and fixed to the nape where necessary, making sure your hair is brushed back from the hairline.
1. Wig Tape
If you aren’t sure how to secure a wig with no hair, wig tape is a great place to start.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Tape
A. Clean the areas where you’re going to place the tape to remove any excess oils and dirt. This will help the tape to stay secure.
B. Attach the wig tape to the underside of your wig.
C. Peel off the other side of the tape to create a secure and comfortable bond to your scalp.
Wig tape works best on hair free areas. As the tape is double-sided, it could be unpleasant if it adheres to your own hair. That being said, glue removers are available.
To learn more about wig tape and how to use it effectively, please take a look at our dedicated post.
PROS:
– It’s a more scalp-friendly alternative to wig glue, as adhesives can irritate a sensitive scalp, particularly for those recovering from cancer treatment.
– Wig tape is a great way to keep your wig in place while still allowing for natural movement.
– You can buy tapes in various forms. You can buy a roll of wig tape and cut to size, you can buy pre-cut strips or you can even buy spot tabs. Most of these are available in varying strength.
– Our Extra Strong Wig Tape is a low residue tape that allows for easy clean-up and a comfortable fit. The tape allows daily wear dependent on temperature, humidity and body oils of the wig-wearer.
– Wig tape easily adheres to polyurethane tabs, which some wigs have. If your wigs do not have this, clients have used tapes against a standard cap and it does work. For additional wig security, you can add the silicone solution sheet strips to your wig or hairpiece. The tape will attach on one side to this, and one side to the scalp.
– As briefly mentioned, there are varying strength holds and our clients testify that tape works, and is very secure! You won’t have to worry about that hair flying down the street like tumbleweed, even when you may be busy and your scalp can get a bit sweaty.
– A roll of tape will last you a long time! It’s good value for money, and if security for a long period is what you require, then it’s most likely to be the best way to secure a wig for you.
CONS:
– If you like to remove your wig every so often to cool your head, you may want to avoid wig tape as its strong and designed to hold the hair on for a long time. The wig security is fab, but some of our customers have told us that it can become a bit trickier when the wig is firmly stuck their head.
2. Wig Grip
The Wig Grip was designed to make wearing a wig during hair loss more secure, confident and comfortable. It adjusts to body movements, distributes the weight of a wig or hat evenly and keeps them from slipping.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Grip
A. Place the wig grip on your head and align it with your hairline.
B. Adjust the size and grip with the Velcro tabs at the back, by the nape of your neck.
C. Put your wig on over the wig grip from front to back, then adjust the wig as necessary for a natural look and comfortable feel.
PROS:
– If you want to remove your wig regularly throughout the day, it is perfect as it is easy on and off.
– The Wig Grip is phenomenal for alleviating pressure and does provide great wig security.
– If you wear wig tape all day you can sometimes find you can get a tension headache. You may find that, as the Wig Grip band is lightweight and durable, it is a very comfortable solution.
CONS:
– The wig grip will last for approximately six months, if cared for correctly. Over time, it may lose its elasticity and would need replacing.
3. Silicone Solution Sheet
The Silicone Solution Sheet is as it says “on the tin” – a sheet of silicone. It comes directly from Simply Wigs, and is supplied with some ‘invisible’ thread. You can then cut the silicone to desired size and shape.
How to Secure a Wig with a Silicone Sheet
A. Cut the silicone sheet into your desired size and shape.
B. Then, simply stitch it inside your wig cap.
This is security that you are effectively building into your own wig, and it provides a gentle suction effect for additional wig security. It is up to you how and where you stitch this to your wig.
PROS:
– You have free reign over the shape, size and placement of your silicone strips.
– Silicone grips to bare skin securely and comfortably, so these sheets work wonderfully for wig wearers with no natural hair.
– Your sewn-in, silicone sheet should last and be effective for a lifetime.
CONS:
– Care needs to be taken when sewing the silicone sheets into your wig. If you’re not comfortable with a needle and thread, you should practice or ask someone for help.
4. Wig Cap
For those asking how to secure a capless wig, a wig cap may be the perfect solution for you. There are many benefits to wearing a wig cap, guaranteeing that long or short natural hair will stay in place. What’s more, it prevents the natural hair from breaking easily from friction, creating a safe and sanitised barrier between the wig and scalp, and maintaining the cleanliness of your wig.
How to Secure a Wig with a Wig Cap
A. Clean the parts of your skin where the wig cap will come in contact with. This will help to remove any dirt or oils that may compromise the security of the wig cap.
B. Place the wig cap on your head, from the front of your hairline to the back of your neck.
C. Check there are no air pockets that would cause unnatural bumps. Smooth them out.
D. Place on your wig.
TOP TIP: Some of our customers love wig caps, and some don’t. So wig cap or no wig cap? It is a completely personal preference. Thankfully though, the basic wig caps that we sell are very purse-friendly. Our comfy Elasticated Wig Cap is one size fits all and is available in black, brown, blonde and grey . . . . just perfect! We also have the Christine Collection Bamboo Wig liner, a more luxurious version of the basic cap.
PROS:
– Wig caps don’t just act as a protective barrier between the scalp and your wig, they are also the perfect tool for helping keep your wig in place.
– Wig caps hold everything in place and are ideal for both shorter and longer natural hair, as well as bare scalps.
– Wig caps can also smooth out the surface underneath a wig, with lumps often being caused by the natural hair under there. As a result of the wig cap, wigs often rest much better on the head, producing a more natural look.
– You can choose from a variety of wig cap materials, depending on what you feel most comfortable with.
CONS:
– The potential downside of wearing a wig cap is that it can make things hot under your wig, • which could cause you to feel the heat and become a little uncomfortable.
5. Wig Clips
Although a well-fitting wig should stay in place without any further wig attachments, you may feel happier using an added security wig attachment, such as some wig clips. Just be aware that wig clips are only effective if you have some hair, and you are not wearing a wig cap.
How to Secure a Wig with Wig Clips
A. Once you’ve styled your wig, all your need to do is lift a handful of the top section of the wig and place the clips in, to secure the wig all the way around your head.
B. The number of clips and size you need to use will be dependent on the style and how secure the wig feels. It’s good to do a few trial runs of securing the wig with clips prior to wearing your wig out, just so you feel comfortable and confident with where you have placed the clips.
PROS:
– Wig clips are easy to use and an inexpensive way of securing your wigs every day of the week.
– They come in different colours to match all your different wigs, as well as different sizes, in order to complement the different stylings of our wigs too.
CONS:
– Wig clips will only work if you have natural hair and are not wearing a wig cap.
6. Bobby Pins
If you’re looking for extra security when wearing your wig and you have natural hair, bobby pins work a treat. They’re an easy and comfortable tool to use, requiring no maintenance.
How to Secure a Wig with Bobby Pins
A. You can use bobby pins to help flatten down and secure your natural hair in place before placing on your wig.
B. Once you’ve placed on and styled your wig, lift up parts of the hair and secure a bobby pin through the wefts and into your natural hair.
C. If your wig isn’t wefted, you can use bobby pins to secure your wig to your natural hair around the side of the wig and by your temples.
D. The number of bobby pins that works will vary from person to person, so experiment to see what you feel comfortable with.
PROS:
– Bobby pins are available in a host of colours, so you can colour match them with your wig and achieve a natural look.
– They’re also super affordable and you can keep them handy when you’re on-the-go. Perfect for last-minute touch ups or when you’re rushing out the door.
– Bobby pins can be used in conjunction with other wig-securing methods.
– They’re small and subtle so you can feel comfortable, confident that your wig is secure and assured that the bobby pins aren’t glaringly obvious.
CONS:
– If you don’t use enough bobby pins, or fail to lock them in securely, they can become loose as you go about your day. This is why we recommend testing what it’s like to wear your wig with bobby pins from the comfort of your home beforehand.
Top Tip: On a final note, a simple way to check that your wig is firmly in place is to bend over and shake your head. If you feel comfortable and confident that it is secure, then you’re ready to flaunt your flawless style!
Handy Wig Tips for the Wind!
For those of you who wear long wigs, especially long synthetic wigs, high winds and rain can leave wigs prone to static tangle and, therefore, a shorter lifespan. But, there is a simple solution that our customers have found.
With a synthetic wig, you can tie a loose side braid (plait) to stop the hair flying away. It will remain straight or curly as was prior to braiding and you won’t have that “windswept” look. Customers also carry the Ellen Wille Hair Tip Liquid in their bags. This can simply be applied to the hair on windy days, where more brushing is required, to keep things looking sleek!
As previously discussed, being comfortable in your wig is extremely important to many wig wearers. We hope these tips will help in navigating how to get a wig to stay on your head! You can find and browse all of the products mentioned above at our online store. We also recommend checking out our previous blog post on how to prevent a wig from slipping. If you have any tips of your own for securing a wig, please share with the rest of the community in the comments below!
Related Article
How to use wig tape
You might have seen it advertised and not known why or how to use wig tape. Have you ever seen those little shiny bits on the inside of your wig and wondered what they’re for?
Related Article
Can I Sleep in my wig
So, can you sleep in a wig? Our Simply Wigs community often asks this question, as we know that taking a wig off before bed can be a tough challenge for some.
Related Article
WIG CAP VS NO WIG CAP
If you’re new to wearing wigs, perhaps you are wondering how to wear a wig without a wig cap? Maybe you are wig-wearer and are curious to know whether a wig cap is for you?
CONTACT US
We would LOVE to hear from you. Our friendly Customer Services Team can be reached Monday to Thursday (9:30 am to 3:30 pm GMT, and Friday 9:30 am to 2:30 pm GMT).
THE AUTHOR: LAURA
I am passionate about helping our customers who are new to the wig wearing world. Whether it is your first telephone call to us, or the first time you are visiting our shop, I am here to provide a supportive and safe environment for you
Love this group where do I put tapes as iv got hair but going thin on cap or on hair .?????
Hi everybody,
I’m happy that you are all getting your wig attachment problems sorted out.
I would just like to point out that the silicone grip bands that I have recommended are not the same as the ‘Comfy grip bands’ in the link that has since been attached to my 26/11/2020 comment. The gel-filled, Comfy bands didn’t work at all for me.
The silicone bands that I use come from ebay sellers. I haven’t seen them anywhere else at the moment. They are completely flat, about 1mm thickness, with little, gripping bumps on both sides of the band. They are also very inexpensive, easy to keep clean and last very well.
I don’t use anything else at all with them, they grip so well for me.
Super duper thanks Sandra
Another good tip, not grip related. Is that if you don’t have a rooted wig but want to make it more realistic looking. Buy Paul Smith Root Touch Up spray in a darker colour and spray lightly along parting. It looks as though roots growing through x
Sandra, your comment is by far the best! 🙂 of course the tops of holdups are silicone which are designed to stick to the thigh so it makes sense that they will stick to the scalp.. Whooop!
That’s a great suggestion Sandra, will try that one – thanks x
Cut the tops off of hold up tights. Sew into front and back of wig. They grip to your head . Cheap and easy to do . Try it , it really works well
I agree that there is an ideal head shape for a wig but if actual “ slipping around “ is a problem then maybe a one to one fitting session would be a good idea . All the aids such as adhesive, wig tape , caps and bands help but a good initial fit is absolutely necessary.
Hi Teresia, it seems your wig is a little big, have you tried a
petite size ?
I’m so new to this. Nothing I can do will keep my wig on/or keep it from slipping around. I’ve bought everything that anyone has suggested. Nothing has helped. I’d appreciate any advice you can give me. Thanks.
Hi Julie,
Like you, I ve tried many different methods over the years to keep my wig in place without success.
I’m eagerly awaiting one of these silicone bands. Lets hope it works for me too ?
Hi everybody,
this is a response to quite an old blog, but I have just started using something new to secure my wigs, so I thought that it was worth sharing it, just in case you didn’t know about it.
Please believe me, no one method of securing wigs suits everybody. I am sure that you have come to the same conclusion as me, that it mostly depends upon the shape of your head, whether you have any hair and if you have, the type of hair.
I have tried most methods. Some didn’t work at all for me, yet people were recommending these same methods unreservedly.
I have realised that I have two factors affecting wig security:-
1) my head is almost flat at the back (said to be an indicator of Neanderthal ancestry!) There is only a shallow ridge of bone between my nape and my skull. Very little to hold a grip in place.
2) I do have some very, very thin, fine and shiny hair: it is slippery.
For me, caps flip off inside wigs and bands/grips tend to skid off my hair too, although the velvet grips do tend to be OK at first. The only way to stop this slipping about, is to use very strong hairspray and that makes my hair brittle and it breaks. The expensive, gel-filled bands were totally useless for me, yet some people love them for their comfort.
Adhesive tape is usually my ‘go to’, but however careful I am, it eventually breaks both my hair and the wig hair.
Clips and combs work for securing pieces, but the tension on the hair roots broke my fragile hair, leaving bald patches.
So now…the big reveal….what have I found that works brilliantly for me, without damaging either my hair or my wigs? Silicone gripper bands.
These are stretchy, but don’t go slack. Wash and wipe dry. Lightweight. they work well because they have lots of little bumps on both surfaces that keep them in a grip with both your hair and your wig. They come in a variety of colours and are semi-transparent. I use light brown for my blonde wigs. They are fairly inexpensive too.
I don’t know if they would work if you don’t have hair.
I don’t know if some people would find them too tight – doesn’t bother me. For me, they are the best yet! my wigs stay secure all day without damaging my hair. I’m using my old, velvet grip bands for curling my wigs, as suggested in the brilliant blog on curling wigs without using heat. Win-win X
Thank you for your suggestion. I recently used lingerie tape at the nape of the neck, behind the ears and on the crown. Works a treat. For extra security I use stays put which I use on holdups. Keeps them securely in place.
I have spent a few years working out the best option for me. Wig caps annoyed me and the wigs just kept moving. The grip option was too bulky. Strong freeze gel works well for the most part but in warm weather starts to lose its stickiness resulting in loose wigs. For me I have found that pre shaped wig tape on the bottom neck area and freeze gel on the forehead works perfectly. Yes the tape hurts when removing the wig. A trick I have learnt is to remove the wig, this usually leaves the tape behind and then soap up a flannel, rub this over the tape and it will come off easily and pain free.
The bamboo caps also stops the scalp
from iching when one has no or little
hair.
Sadly am very sensitive to glues and tapes since chemo 6 yrs ago. I do have some extremely thin hair so I simply used 3 hair grips – behind each ear and one in the nape. Highly effective, cheap & cheerful and keeps my wig secure even in high winds.
I have decided that some people are lucky and have heads that are naturally shaped to keep a wig in place more easily . Let’s hope you are one of those . I find the “ glue “ by far the best method of making things a bit more secure . My stuff comes as a roll-on and is for keeping Irish dancers socks up . You can roll it on your head or roll it on the inside front of the wig .
Well done you will look lovely I use double sided tape and I been wearing a wig now for 8 years all the best x
Hi Guys !!! All new to wearing wigs … I’ve one ordered & expecting it any day ? … After thinking about it I realised that it’s probably not as simple as putting it on & it stays put … So I have spent the day researching online & watching tips tutorials on Utube … My research brought me here & I’m SO glad it did !!! So I’ve now ordered Got2b glue & some double sided tape ( for clothes ) from Superdrug … I’ve picked up loads of handy tips for application too … Hopefully when my wig arrives I’ll be good to go !!! I’ll keep you all posted . And thanks again ladies !!! U Guys rock . FACT !! Much love . Jojo xx
The article was very informative
Hi karen I bought some in boots on Saturday doesn’t affect the lace washes off with water it’s water resistant suppose to be very good time will see ! X
I also use wig glue although I actually buy it as something to keep up Irish dancers socks !
On the whole I think I must have a good shaped head for keeping a wig on but if I’m going to the dentistry or it’s windy I use a good dollop of glue .
You’ll find if you have no hair at all that the grip from stocking top adheres to your head . I’ve tried this and wig is very secure and won’t move at all . It’s s great tip. You need to replace every so often as grip wears off after several shampoos.
I do this too…it looks trendy…sunglasses or reading glasses…or, even a sassy headband…
Hi Rhona…
I’m really interested in this glue that you use.
Much love
Karen xx
I love your idea. I’m.going to buy some lingerie tape as it’s cheap, and double sided. I also have a product called stays put which I use on my holdups. If it works for them then it will work on securing my wig. I’m going to Alton towers when.it opens in March. I need to make sure my wig is secure…so I can ride my favourite roller-coaster without my wig falling off or having to hold it on or sit with my head firmly rested on the head rest..
Hi I’m new to wigs just got one it’s kinda big for my head those clips at the back to adjust it don’t stay on how do I sew on clips
Thanks
Dear Ladies, thank you, thank you all! I have just had to start to wear a wig due to very sudden hair loss. I have a stretchy mesh wig cap, but during the day, it rolled up at the sides of my head, letting straggly ends loose around my nape. I found your comments and advice whilst searching for a cap which may offer more security. Lots of sound ideas for me to try, starting with the gel, and strips of anti-slip mat sewn into the wigs. So pleased I found your page. Thanks again.
When it is windy, I wear my glasses and put them on top of the sides of the wig. It helps to keep my wig in place!
Ive recently bought a wig ” band ” to go round my head underneath the wig….still have hair round my hairline. Still finding it bunches up under the wig tho ….any ideas ?
Interesting subject! I have some hair, and now I order pressure clips every time I order a wig. I sew them to the wig cap – and three clicks later am secure. I go on long windy walks along the shore and up mountains – no problems whatever!!! I do use some gel on extra windy days though
Where do you apply the styling gel Beryl, is it around the hairline ?
Patricia x
What an excellent idea!! I did get the silicone round the head one with gell inside but it felt to uncomfortable for me. Just bought some of this and I know it works, I have it in the house but it is blue, I have bought the neutral!!!
I always use tape which I find is very good and wear a light
Weight coat with hood
I use It Stays! clothes and wig roll on glue when it’s windy. It’s great for lace fronts in particular and I bought it on eBay or Amazon. It washes off very easily but keeps a wig on really well. I have very little hair yet it doesn’t pull or hurt when removing. Great stuff for when the wind strikes!
You ladies really rock!! So many fantastic ideas. Thanks a million.
I use tape sometimes, but also bought a tube of Got2b ultra glue which I find great. I have some hair and find the gel easier to remove than tape. It’s also a better stick for the nape area where there’s still hair. Sticks the wig like glue and even a strong wind won’t budge it!
I never go anywhere without a jacket that has a hood! I have very lightweight ones for when it’s a warm wind ! Living in Scotland it rarely gets that hot anyway.
Hi Margaret
Thanks for your reply. One area I always have problems with, is the nape area of my wigs. No matter how much I adjust the straps, there always seems to be a gap at the Base of the wig on the nape area, and if I buy a wig with a comb in the back, having very little hair means the comb isn’t secure and the back of the wig slides up making it obvious I’m wearing a wig. Would sewing a piece of silicone where the comb and adjustable strap are solve this problem, especially if I remove the comb?
I sew the silicone band from a hold up stocking into each wig at the front on the hairline. It sticks like glue on my hairless forehead, Silicone tape does need to cling to bare skin or perhaps nearly bare skin. Not sure about using this solution on lace from wigs as I always wear basic cap wigs.
Hi Margaret,
your silicone idea using silicone strips from holdups is blooming fantastic!! i too am i wig wearer. I do have a little hair around the perimeter of my head. What do you use on the silicone strips to keep your wig secure on your head? daily wear tape will work out expensive over time, so i was thinking of either shaving the little hair i have off completely, or another lady mentioned extra hold gel. I was also wondering i if i sew the silicone strips onto a wig cap (and not shave my remaining hair off, as i’ve just bought a new wig and i want to use my hair to blend in) im assuming that they will still hold my wig in place.
Hi Michelle
One low cost alternative to a silicone sheet is the silicone band on hold up stockings (flesh coloured stockings are best). I cut of the silicone band from the stocking and sew on to the front of my wig. One pair of stockings provides enough material for 4 wigs. After a few months of wear, the silicone band will need to be replaced.
Hats
I have found that hats that stay on when wearing a wig have to be wedged on, definitely very uncomfortable.
Knitted hats will stay on as they grip the hair(wig), but probably not a good idea to wear with your best wig.
This summer I knitted myself a sun hat that has a wired rim which I found very comfortable and stays on (http://www.berroco.com/patterns/windansea)
wig tape how great is that x x iv been walking around with a hand on each side of my wig and clinging on for dear life on a windy day lol X x love helen d x
I have tried several things such as wig tape and clips which are quite successful and the comfort band which wasn’t any good
As I have some hair the most successful thing I have found is the nonslip matting used for trays etc which you can cut into inch strips and use much like the comfort band around your head held tightly with a hair grip it is incredibly secure and cheap !
You can generally buy it online on Amazon and can get various colours brown, beige or black
I have been using silicone strips for a while now, I sew them all over, the polyurethane strip at the front, at the back where the adjustment tapes are also on the ear tabs and on really windy days at the crown of a mono top, then add the double sided tape. I spend a lot of time outdoors and this is the only way I can feel confident and get on with living without worrying about my hair (wig). I have complete hair loss.
Like you I have no hair.(for 45 years) but use oil skin (silicone sheet) and wig tape placed front center of wig .I golf and horse ride and have never had an issue with losing my wigs or it slipping.
Have never found a hat or cap (except a riding helmet) that stays in place on top of a wig tho.any suggestions?
I do have some hair and found the wig tape just stuck to that and was painful to take my wig off. The best thing I have found is firm hold styling gel. It holds even in the strongest winds…I keep some in my handbag just in case. It washes out easily…it can last a few days if necessary just by dampening it. I just wash my hair as I use it.
I have also used it to tease down hair ( if I haven’t a lace front wig) over my forehead and it softens the hair line and holds it in place.
So quick and easy to use.
Thanks for that Jean. I also have a little hair – thin and getting even thinner. I have bought a a couple of longish wigs but they slide during the day. I need to get some wig clips on order (have been trying to secure with Kirby clips). I guess it really does seem an obvious solution – Really do need to engage my brain!!!!!
Brilliant article as usual. I have a little hair, and tend to sew wig clips inside my wigs – two at the sides about half way back and one at the back at the bottom. Brilliant!