How to Get the Ideal Wig Fit and Put on a Wig Cap

The thin, elastic material that covers your hair or scalp and gives your wig a smooth foundation is called a wig cap.  Many wig users consider a cap to be a hidden tool that enhances the comfort and natural appearance of wearing a wig.  So let's get started if you've never worn a wig cap before, with step-by-step instructions and expert advice to help you look your best!

The Importance of Wearing a Wig Cap

Wearing a wig cap might seem like an optional step, but it can make a big difference in how your wig fits, feels, and looks. Here are the main reasons why wearing a wig cap is highly recommended:

👉 Secures your natural hair: A wig cap keeps your hair tucked in place, preventing loose strands from sticking out or shifting under the wig.

👉 Creates a smooth base: It flattens your hair to create an even surface for your wig to sit on, helping the style look more natural.

👉 Adds comfort: Wig caps act as a barrier between your scalp and the wig, reducing friction and helping to avoid irritation.

👉 Improves grip: The cap provides extra friction that helps keep your wig in place throughout the day.

👉 Protects your wig: It minimizes the amount of sweat and oil that reaches your wig, helping it stay clean and last longer.

Whether you have a full head of hair, thinning edges, or a shaved scalp, a wig cap can improve your overall wig-wearing experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Putting on a Wig Cap

Although wearing a wig cap may seem difficult at first, you can rapidly become proficient if you prepare ahead of time and follow a few helpful tips.  A thorough guide to get you started is provided below.  Feel free to follow along and modify as necessary to suit your comfort level and hair length.

Tools You Need

✅ Wig Cap

✅ Wide Tooth Comb or Brush

✅ Hairpins or Bobby Pins

✅ Elastic Hair Ties

✅ Hairspray (optional)

✅ Scalp Moisturizer or Scalp Protector Spray (optional)

✅ Wig Adhesive Spray (optional)

Step 1: Choose the Right Wig Cap

Choose a wig cap that complements the color of your wig or skin tone and fits your head comfortably.  Wig caps are available in many colors (nude, brown, black, etc.) and materials (such as breathable bamboo or thin nylon).  I always choose a cap color that matches my skin tone or the wig's roots the best.  In this manner, it will be less obvious if the cap moves slightly.

A good fit is the first step to comfort. So, make sure the cap isn’t too tight or too loose: it should stretch to cover your head without pinching. If you have a larger head or thick hair, choose a “large” size cap for extra room.

Step 2: Prepare Your Hair (and Scalp)

Before putting on the cap, gather and flatten your hair as much as possible. If you have no hair (or very short hair), you can skip to the next step. Otherwise, start by combing or brushing your hair back away from your face. Then, secure it flat:

✨ Cornrow Method

For long hair, you might split it into a few sections and braid each one close to the scalp (cornrow style) to reduce bulk. The more and smaller braids you make, the flatter the cornrows will be along the scalp. Of course, you can also apply some detangling spray to your hair to avoid tangles during the procedure of braiding.

✨ Braid Method

You can wrap the braids around your head and experiment with different styles.  First, you can braid each side of your hair separately after splitting it into two portions down the middle.  Once the braiding is complete, hold them in place by crisscrossing them against the back of your head.  Additionally, be sure that the braids beneath the wig cap are not very tight.  Because these braids will tug on your hairline if they are extremely tight.

Bun Method

Nothing is better than putting your short hair in a wig hat in a bun if it's shoulder length or shorter.  You can attempt to fasten your hair with hairpins after pulling all of your hair into a low, tight bun at the back of your head.  Please use hairspray to hold baby hair and short hair in place as they try to escape the bun.

Advice: Use a little coating of scalp protection spray or even a small amount of scalp moisturizer if your scalp is sensitive or you want more comfort.  This might make the surface smoother for the cap to glide on and lessen irritation.  Usually, I give my scalp a quick spray and wait for it to dry before proceeding.  Although it's not required, it can help wearing the cap—and eventually the wig—feel more pleasant, particularly on hot days.

Step 3: Put On and Align the Wig Cap

Hold the wig cap by the edge and find the front side (some have a slight curve or larger opening at the front). Pull the cap over your head from front to back, like putting on a swim cap. Start at your forehead and pull it over to the back of your head. As you do this, make sure to align it with your natural hairline. For most people, you’ll position the cap just in front of your hairline and then pull it backward so that no natural hair is peeking out at the front. This placement gives you a realistic hairline when you later wear your wig.

If your hairline is uneven (for example, you have a widow’s peak or some higher spots), don’t worry: aim to cover the lowest or furthest-down point of your hairline.

Step 4: Tuck Away Stray Hairs and Adjust

After the cap is on, check for any loose hairs or flyaways that escaped the hold and are poking out. Use your fingers or a fine-tooth comb to gently push those strands under the cap. I always look around the edges — especially near the temples and nape — and tuck in any stray bit.

Then, take a moment to smooth the cap itself so it lies flat against your head. If you feel a bit of hair bulk in one spot, adjust the braids or pins in your hair underneath until it’s even.

Step 5: Secure the Wig Cap

Once the cap is aligned and all hair is tucked in, you want to keep it from shifting.

The easiest way is with bobby pins. I usually grab a few sturdy bobby pins and slide them over the edges of the cap at key points — for example, one on each temple area and a couple near the nape of my neck. This is quick and painless, and I find it holds the cap snugly without being too tight.

A mild wig adhesive spray can be applied to the cap's edges for individuals who think they need more grip.  Use a tiny bit if you attempt this: lift the cap's edge, dab a little glue where it comes into contact with your skin, and then press the cap down.  Although it should be used with caution, this can prevent the hat (and wig) from moving.  To prevent irritation, always test adhesive on your own skin first.

 Your wig cap should now be in its ideal position.  Your hair is now fully contained, the cap is in place, and the surface of your head is smooth.  On top of this sturdy foundation, you're prepared to put on your wig.

Conclusion

For any wig user, putting on a wig cap is an easy yet crucial step.  You can create a smooth, stable base that enhances the appearance of your wig by selecting the appropriate cap, getting your hair ready, and following the preceding instructions.  I've taught a lot of clients that wearing a wig cap becomes second nature with repetition, which gives you a lot of confidence in your hairdo.  With this guidance, we hope you'll feel eager and prepared to include a wig cap into your routine.  You are now ready to sport your new style, so go ahead and crown it with your favorite UNice wig!