How to Install a Lace Front Wig

If you’re working with natural hair, then you likely already know the wonders of protective styles. With feed in braids and twist outs having a major moment in the beauty world, why not upgrade your beauty look with a wig install? After all, the perfect wig install gives you free reign to experiment with any hair color, cut, or style. That’s right! While you may be thinking of your Grandmother’s wigs, there is no need to panic. Wigs have come a long way to provide a more natural and realistic finish sans the stiff look. That’s probably why you’ve seen lace front wigs all over your social media feed and IRL as of late.

Ready to upgrade your mane? We thought so! Keep reading to learn how to install a lace front wig, plus tips on taking care of your new ‘do.

WHAT IS A LACE FRONT WIG?

Before we turn you into a wig install expert, you need the 4-1-1 on lace front wigs. While you may think that these wigs are made with the delicate fabric used in clothing, it’s a bit more intricate than that. A lace front wig has a fine sheer mesh at the front with strands of hair individually tied to it to emulate your natural hairline. As a result, you can style this wig away from your face, pull the hair of the wig back in half-up styles, and tuck it behind your ears without the wig cap being seen. Now, that's what we call a real game changer!

HOW TO INSTALL A LACE FRONT WIG

Ready to bring this look to life? Below, we’re sharing a step-by-step tutorial on how to install a lace front wig like a pro.

STEP #1: CREATE YOUR FOUNDATION

First things first, your hair needs to be as flat as possible for your wig to lay evenly. Start by creating small Dutch braids or twists, making sure to braid or twist your hair to the ends. If your hair is on the shorter side, feel free to slick it back with a hair gel or mousse.

STEP #2: PROTECT YOUR HAIR

Once your mane is nice and even, you can secure your hair with a wig cap. Be sure to use a wig cap that’s close to your skin tone to make parting your wig look more natural.

STEP #3: PREP YOUR WIG CAP

Reach for a foundation and apply it to your wig cap to help it look more like your scalp when you part the hair. We like the L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Compact Makeup, which is long-lasting and applies evenly. This step comes in handy if you’re unable to find a wig cap that closely matches your skin tone.

STEP #4: CUSTOMIZE YOUR WIG

Now it’s time to prep your wig! Most lace front wigs come with excess lace that extends out in front of the wig. Grab a pair of scissors and trim the lace to follow the shape of your natural hairline. Be careful not to over trim or cut the actual hairs on your wig.

STEP #5: WIG IT OUT

Holding your lace front wig at the sides, place it on the top of your forehead and slide the wig back over your head. Once your wig is on, you can adjust the placement for a flattering finish, which we’ll go over in the next step.

STEP #6: ADJUST YOUR WIG

Some wigs come with a pre-made part, while others offer a free-part, which gives you the option of switching up your part. If you have a pre-made part, you can shift your wig to the side to create a side part wherever you desire.

STEP #7: SECURE YOUR WIG

All wigs come with adjustable straps to give you the best possible fit. However, if you feel that you need more support, you can opt for wig adhesive or wig glue to bond the lace front to your head. You can also use a wig spray, which is formulated to lay down your lace and hair without causing any damage to your natural hairline.

STEP #8: SEAL THE DEAL

You’re almost at the finish line! Now that your wig is in place, you need to disguise the tiny dots on the lace for a more natural look. Use a powder foundation and press it directly on your part for a flawless finish. Lightly blend until even. Voila!

HOW TO CARE FOR A LACE FRONT WIG

A lace front wig can be a pricey investment, so you want to make sure to keep your wig in tip-top shape. Keep reading for a few easy tips to add to your lace front wig routine.

TIP #1: GRIP THE WIG BY THE SIDES

Never hold your wig by the lace. Excessive pulling and tugging can cause the lace to rip. Instead, use the ear tabs or side areas of the cap to grip the wig when you’re putting it on.

TIP #2: WASH AND CONDITION REGULARLY

Just because it’s a wig doesn’t mean it shouldn’t receive regular love and care. If your wig is made of human hair, wash it with a nourishing hair care system like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner—just like you would your actual hair. This sulfate-free system works to nourish and soften hair for a luminous shine.

TIP #3: LET YOUR WIG AIR DRY

Air drying your hair is not only reserved for your natural mane. Blow-drying and excessive heat can damage your wig. Always allow your wig to air dry to keep the strands intact.

TIP #4: USE A WIDE TOOTH COMB

Least likely to pull out any hairs from your lace front, a wide-tooth comb is your best bet for styling if you want your wig to go the distance. Be sure to comb and loosen tangles gently to preserve your wig.

Next up: Can’t get enough of protective styles? Here are The 30 Best Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair.