Wig 101 | How to Glue Down Your Lace Front Wig

Don’t be daunted by lace! Our easy-to-follow guide ensures a stress-free transformation of your stunning wig into a luscious mane. From start to finish, embrace simplicity and achieve your desired luxurious look. Lace styling is made simple, making you confident and chic quickly!

Wigs are now indispensable in fashion, and for good reason. Over the last decade, hair units have become famous for achieving cutting-edge style. They’ve seamlessly integrated into mainstream fashion as essential companions to natural hair care routines. If you’re here, chances are you’ve breezed through one-minute wig installs and are prepared for the intricacies of mastering an at-home process. Embrace the evolution of wigs from mere accessories to transformative elements, enhancing your style and your entire self-care ritual. Get ready to delve into the details and perfect the Art of DIY wig mastery.

Step One: Prep your Natural Hair

The foundation of any healthy hair care regimen lies in a consistent washing routine. While it may seem tempting to neglect washing when your natural locks are hidden beneath a wig, this can be detrimental in the long run. Think of your scalp as the soil from which your hair grows. To have strong, healthy strands, you must protect and nurture this foundation. Experiment with a washing schedule that suits your unique hair type and environment. Some may find success with weekly washes, while others may opt for bi-weekly routines. Remember, every head of hair is unique. Establishing a reliable hair care routine is a wonderful way to integrate self-care into your life. Consistency and patience are the keys to cultivating a thriving hair garden.

Step Two: Clean your Hairline

Glueing down your lace front wig involves meticulously cleaning your hairline. Begin by washing your forehead with a gentle cleanser to remove any oils, residues, or makeup. This ensures a clean surface for better adhesion. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, avoiding any harsh rubbing. Next, use a cotton pad or swab soaked in alcohol to thoroughly cleanse the hairline, eliminating any remaining oils or products. Alcohol aids in creating a dry, residue-free zone for the adhesive. Be cautious not to apply too close to the eyes or broken skin. This meticulous cleaning is vital for a secure and long-lasting bond between the lace and your skin. Take your time to guarantee a pristine canvas, enhancing the effectiveness of the adhesive and ensuring a flawless, natural finish.

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Step Three: Secure your Wig Cap or Stocking

In the third step of glueing down your lace front wig, focus on securing your wig cap or stocking for a smooth foundation. Once your cleaned hairline is ready, put on a wig cap that closely matches your skin tone. Ensure it sits snugly over your head, covering your natural hair completely. Consider braiding or pinning it flat for longer hair before applying the cap for a sleek fit. Alternatively, use a stocking cap for a low-profile option. Adjust and position the lid to align with your natural hairline, smoothing wrinkles or folds. This step provides a secure base for the wig and helps maintain a flat surface, enhancing the overall adherence and ensuring a seamless, natural appearance.

Step Four: Position your Wig

Before applying the glue or adhesive:

• See that the wig fits properly.
• Place the wig on your head and line it up with your desired hairline. If the wig has a tightening strap, you can adjust it for a comfortable but snug fit.
• Loosen the straps if you feel a strong ring of pressure around your head.

It’s essential to get the fit right, so shop for adjustable styles with an apparent size chart in their product listings.

Step Five: Apply Glue or Adhesive

When selecting your glue, you should prioritise your skin. Ensure your hair routine is healthy by choosing an adhesive that won’t irritate the skin.
Dot or spray a thin line of adhesive along the hairline and smooth it out with a comb or sponge. Then, use your blow dryer to speed up the curing process. Once the adhesive is clear, repeat this step and apply a second layer of glue. When the bond begins to dry and is transparent and tacky, you can move on to lace trimming.

Tips for Applying Wig Glue without Damaging Your Edges

Here are a few tips for keeping your edges safe and sound as you glue down your new lace wig:

• Always moisturise your edges first to avoid dry, brittle hair and breakage.
• Be sure to smooth your edges to prevent stray hair pieces from getting caught in the glue.

Pro Tip: Use an edge control for extra nourishment.

• Use your wig cap to protect your edges by covering your natural hairline fully.
• Remember, do not put it directly on your edges when applying wig glue.

Remove your lace wig slowly and carefully with adhesive remover or alcohol to avoid tugging at your natural hair.

Step Six: Trim the Lace and Lay It Down

At this point, you should put your wig on but avoid fixing it to the skin. Use a small sharp scissor to trim the lace along your natural hairline. Leave about 1/8 inch (3 mm) of lace for blending. Some people will use make-up to outline a guide for an even line.
Stylists recommend cutting the lace in sections starting from the middle, making it easier to cut precisely. You can only snip once! But don’t worry; you can use the baby’s hair and make-up to cover imperfections. Now add your last layer of glue, repeating the process from step 6, then place the wig at the very edge of the adhesive. Placement is essential as you lay down your sections, step back, and ensure you follow a natural-looking line.
Once the wig is glued down, you can use your rat tail comb to press the glued wig into the skin gently. Then, Wrap a satin scarf or headband around your hairline for 15-20 minutes to further cure the glue and lace to the skin.
With your wig securely attached, you are ready to melt the lace.
Begin by cutting away any excess lace. You can use your sharp scissors, but some prefer a razor for precision. Use an adhesive spray in a thin, fine line across the front and press with the back of a comb to see the lace dissolve into the skin. Then repeat the wrapping step with a satin scarf and use a hairdryer to perfect the cure and hold.

Step Seven: Baby Hairs

Many units come with baby hairs pre-styled along the hairline, while others can be styled to add them.
To design your baby hair, take a tiny section from the front of your hairline, around 1/16 inch, and trim it to 3/4 inch. Then, shape them as boldly as you desire using your favourite edge control or styling mousse and comb. Once your design is finished, let your edges set. You can do this by pinning it down with setting paper or using a scarf and a blow dryer on the cooling setting. After a few minutes, remove this paper or scarf and reveal your masterpiece!

Step Eight: Style

Styling is a must; that last touch of extra style will make the wig more you. Synthetic fibres have become more adaptable, and human hair can withstand almost anything. Avoid using a regular brush and hot styling tools over 400 degrees if your wig is synthetic. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or wig brush to adjust your hair. You’ll have no problem using a typical brush and extra hotter styling tools if it is human hair.

Looking for more insight? Check out Destiny Dove's tutorial and review of our Viola Wig.

FAQ

1. How do I stop my lace from lifting or sliding back?

   To stop a lace wig from lifting or sliding back, try the following: adjust the wig cap size, trim the lace, use wig tape or glue to secure the wig, and style the wig with products like mousse or gel. A properly fitted wig cap and secure glue application will help keep the wig in place.

2. Can I shower with a glued-on wig?

   Yes you can, but you have to make sure that the glue is water and steam-proof. However, it’s better not to shower with a wig that is attached using glue. The water and steam from the shower can cause the glue to weaken and the wig to come loose. It's best to avoid exposing the wig to water, steam, and high humidity, as these elements can damage the wig and cause it to lose its shape or become tangled.

3. How do I remove the glue from my skin and wig after wearing the lace front wig?

   Use a lace adhesive remover or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton pad to gently dissolve the adhesive. Follow the product instructions carefully to avoid any skin irritation.

4. Can I sleep with a glued-down lace front wig?

   It's generally not recommended, as the friction during sleep may loosen the adhesive. Removing the wig before bedtime ensures better maintenance and a longer-lasting bond.

5. Can I reuse the lace front wig after glueing it down?

   Yes, with proper care, you can reuse the wig. Gently remove any adhesive residue, clean the lace, and store it appropriately between uses.

6. What if I'm allergic to the wig adhesive?

   Always do a patch test before full application. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult with a dermatologist. Consider hypoallergenic adhesives for sensitive skin.