How to Wear a Wig with Long Hair: Common Issues & Styling Techniques After Placement

Wearing a wig over long hair is an art. To do it correctly, you need the right technique and a few essential tools, such as a wig cap, bobby pins, and specialized accessories. To achieve the perfect look, you can choose between three proven preparation techniques: the twisted, low bun, or braid methods. Your choice will depend on your hair’s thickness and texture.

This guide helps you navigate common challenges, from eliminating bulk to preventing slippage. We will explain the five-step placement process and address troubleshooting for common fit issues. Read on for detailed instructions that turn this challenging task into a straightforward routine.

Tools and Accessories for Wearing a Wig with Long Hair

You need 6 specific tools to wear a wig over long hair successfully:

1. Wig Cap: Compresses hair flat against your scalp and creates a smooth base.
2. Bobby Pins: Secure twisted sections, braids, or buns tightly so they don’t shift.
3. Hair Ties: Gather long strands into ponytails without adding bulk.
4. Pomade: Smooths down roots and flyaways for a polished foundation.
5. Wide-tooth comb: Helps you work through resistant areas safely to section and flatten hair.
6. Silicone Strips: Stick to your scalp along the wig’s edge to anchor it firmly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wear a Wig with Long Hair

You will complete five specific steps: detangle, choose a preparation method, apply the cap, put on the wig, and position it.

Step 1: Detangle and Section Your Hair

Always begin with clean, dry hair. Brush gently from the ends up toward the roots to remove knots without breaking strands. If you encounter resistant areas, spray them lightly with a detangler to reduce friction. Once smooth, divide your hair into two to four sections using clips. This makes your hair much easier to handle during the preparation phase.

Step 2: Choose Your Hair Preparation Method

3 main methods flatten long hair under a wig. Choose the one that fits your hair type:

1. Twisted Method for Long Hair

Part your hair into four equal sections from front to back and side to side. Twist each section tightly from roots to ends, keeping tension consistent so the twist stays compact.

Wrap each twisted section around your head like a crown, laying them flat against your scalp in a circular pattern that follows your head’s natural curve. Pin each twist down with bobby pins placed horizontally every 2 to 3 inches to prevent lifting or shifting. 

Tip: Apply a small amount of pomade to your roots before twisting for extra hold and smoothness, which eliminates frizz and keeps shorter hairs from escaping.

2. Low Bun Method for Long Hair

Ideal for those with thick, heavy tresses that often create unwanted bulk, this technique focuses on compressing volume into a singular flat plane. Begin by gathering your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, securing it exactly where your skull meets your neck to maintain the flattest possible profile. Twist the ponytail into a tight, horizontal spiral rather than a protruding knot, then fasten it with a second hair tie. 

For a seamless finish under your wig cap, anchor the bun firmly against your scalp with bobby pins and tuck away any stray strands to eliminate bumps. By spreading the hair’s weight evenly across the base of the head, you ensure a smooth, natural look regardless of your hair’s density.

3. Braid Method for Long Hair

For hair exceeding 24 inches or stubborn curly textures, braiding offers the ultimate control over both length and volume. Start by splitting your hair into two equal sections and crafting tight French braids or cornrows from the hairline back, maintaining constant tension to keep them flush against the scalp.

Once finished, wrap the braids in opposite directions around your head or tuck them flat at the nape, securing the structure with bobby pins spaced 2 inches apart. This approach effectively tames even the most voluminous hair, creating a secure and ultra-flat foundation that keeps your wig perfectly in place all day.

Step 3: Apply a Wig Cap

Once your hair is prepped and secured, it’s time to apply a wig cap by placing its front edge at your natural hairline and stretching it backward over your hair until it reaches the nape of your neck. Use your fingers or the end of a rat-tail comb to tuck any flyaways under the edges, working from your temples to behind your ears.

If you feel any lumps through the material, gently press down and redistribute the hair toward flatter areas to ensure a smooth base. Finally, adjust the cap for a snug fit, ensuring it sits about 1 centimeter behind your hairline to leave room for the wig’s front edge and feels snug without causing tension. 

Step 4: Put on the Wig

Hold the wig with both hands, placing your thumbs inside the ear tabs and your fingers on the outside of the cap.

• Position: Tilt your head slightly forward. Place the front edge of the wig against your forehead, roughly aligned with your eyebrows.
• Slide: Gently slide the wig backward over your head and down towards your neck.
• Adjust: Once the wig covers your head, slide the front edge back until it sits about 1 to 1.5 centimeters behind your natural hairline for the most realistic look.

Step 5: Stretch the Wig Over Your Head

Check that the wig’s ear tabs are level and facing your temples. Gently pull the back of the wig down to ensure it fully covers the nape of your neck and that all your natural hair is tucked inside. Once positioned, lift small sections of hair to insert bobby pins through the mesh, securing the wig to your natural hair. For extra security, use a wig grip band or double-sided tape along the hairline.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

5 common issues occur when wearing a wig over long hair, each requiring specific corrections:

1. Bulk Under the Wig: If your wig feels bumpy, remove it and re-tuck any loose strands under the wig cap, then check that braids or twists lie completely flat against your scalp without raised sections.
2. Slippage: Use a silicone grip band placed around your head under the wig cap, or add a wig cap band over the regular cap for a double-layer hold, then adjust the wig’s internal straps tighter.
3. Discomfort: Check for tightness or pinching by running your fingers under the wig’s edge, then loosen the wig slightly by adjusting straps and reposition any braids or buns that create pressure points.
4. Visible Hairline: Blend the wig’s hairline with your natural hair by applying a small amount of pomade or concealer along the lace edge, then adjust the wig’s front edge forward or backward for seamless appearance.
5. Flyaways: Use a small amount of hairspray or smoothing serum on your fingertips, then press down gently on stray hairs along the hairline and part to tame them without creating buildup.

Styling the Wig After Placement

4 styling techniques complete your wig application after placement:

1. Blending: Use a wide-tooth comb or soft brush to blend the wig’s hair with any visible natural hair at the edges, creating a seamless transition by gently combing both together.
2. Volume and Texture: Add volume or texture with a curling iron set to 150-180°C (300-350°F) or a flat iron, matching the style to your natural hair’s texture for cohesive appearance.
3. Bangs and Fringe: Style bangs or fringe to frame your face naturally by brushing them forward, then trim if needed using hair scissors for a perfect fit that matches your face shape.
4. Finishing Touches: Use a light hairspray held 25-30 centimeters (10-12 inches) from the wig’s surface to set the style and prevent flyaways without creating stiffness or visible residue.

Maintaining Your Wig and Natural Hair

4 maintenance categories preserve both your wig and natural hair:

1. Wig Care: Wash your wig regularly with wig shampoo every seven to ten wears, condition as needed with wig conditioner, and store it on a wig stand to maintain its shape between uses.
2. Natural Hair Care: Keep your scalp and hair hydrated with gentle shampoos and conditioners applied every two to three days, then avoid excessive heat to prevent damage while wearing wigs frequently.
3. Preventing Damage: Rotate wig styles to avoid pressure on the same scalp areas repeatedly, then use protective products like leave-in conditioner for both wig and natural hair to prevent dryness.
4. Storage: Store your wig in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight that fades color, then keep your natural hair protected with a silk or satin scarf when not wearing the wig.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

5 common mistakes compromise wig appearance and comfort:

1. Skipping Hair Preparation: Don’t wear the wig directly over loose long hair because it causes bulk and bumps that show through; always braid, twist, or bun your hair first.
2. Using the Wrong Wig Cap: Avoid thin caps that slip easily; instead, opt for grip or silicone-lined wig caps that secure long hair smoothly against your scalp without shifting during movement.
3. Over-Tightening Straps: Too-tight straps cause headaches and discomfort after one to two hours; adjust straps for a snug but comfortable fit that holds without creating pressure points.
4. Ignoring Hairline Blending: Failing to blend the wig with your natural hairline makes it look obvious from close distances; use pomade or concealer along the lace edge for seamlessness.
5. Neglecting Maintenance: Don’t wear the same wig style daily without cleaning because it damages both wig fibers and natural hair from trapped oils and sweat; rotate styles and care properly.

FAQs: Wear a Wig with Long Hair

Can I wear a wig with long hair without using a wig cap?

Yes, you can wear a wig without a wig cap, but using one helps prevent bumps and keeps hair secure for a smoother, more comfortable fit under the wig.

How does the twisted method compare to the braid method for long hair?

Twisting is faster and takes five to seven minutes; braiding offers more security for active wear and reduces bulk better under the wig for very long hair.

Is it safe to wear a wig with long hair every day?

Yes, daily wig wear is safe if you care for your scalp and hair properly with regular washing, but take breaks every few days to avoid irritation or buildup.

How do I prevent my wig from slipping?

Use a silicone grip band under your wig cap, wear a wig cap with built-in grips, or adjust the wig’s internal straps tighter for a snug fit.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of wearing a wig with long hair is all about the foundation. While tools like wig caps and techniques like braiding provide the roadmap, the goal is a look that feels natural and secure. For those using premium products from Apo Hair, a trusted wholesale hair factory in Vietnam, following these steps helps ensure the wig sits properly, eliminates bulk, and enhances the overall finish. By following these steps, you can eliminate bulk and enjoy a seamless transformation.

Remember: the secret to a flawless application lies in the patience of your prep work. With these professional tips, you are ready to rock any look with confidence.