How To Put On A Wig Cap in 6 Steps: A Beginner’s Guide

So, you’re asking how to put on a wig cap before putting on your fabulous new human hair wig—but wait, let’s rewind for a sec. The real question lurking behind that is: Do you even need one?

Well, here’s the tea: wig caps, also known as wig cap liners, are optional. But many wig wearers swear by them for that added layer of security, comfort, and let’s be honest—less wig-slippage drama.

In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to pop on a wig cap, step by step. It’s easier than contouring your nose. Stay tuned!

Why Do You Need a Wig Cap?

Although wig caps are said to be optional, putting on a wig cap before the wig makes the whole experience a lot easier.

1. A wig cap keeps your wig from sliding over or off your head, making sure it stays put all day.
2. A wig cap serves as a shield that protects your scalp from any rubbing and irritation from the wig, especially wefted wigs.
3. A wig cap is perfect for keeping your natural hair out of the way, keeping the hair under its best behavior all day.

Think of a wig cap as your secret sidekick—it keeps your natural hair tucked away and helps your wig sit pretty and stay comfy.

How to Put on a Wig Cap for First Timers

It might feel overwhelming to see endless TikTok tutorials or Instagram Reels. The truth is that putting on a wig cap is very simple. We’ve narrowed it down to 6 simple and detailed steps for you to follow along with. But here are the four things you need before putting on a wig cap:

1. A wig cap that matches your skin tone (so it stays invisible under your wig)
2. Scalp protector spray (to keep your scalp happy and irritation-free)
3. Hair ties (to secure long hair)
4. Bobby pins (to keep any loose bits tucked away)

Step 1 – Choose Your Wig Cap

Choose a wig cap that matches your skin tone or wig roots for the most natural blend. Wig caps usually come in nude or black, but you’ll find plenty of other shades and sizes out there, too.

We recommend choosing a cap that’s as close to your skin tone as possible—it blends in better and gives your wig a more natural look.

Alternatively, you can go for a cap that matches the roots of your wig. That way, if your wig shifts a little (hey, it happens), the cap won’t peek through and ruin the illusion.

Step 2 – Secure Your Hair to Your Head

Flatten and pin your hair tightly against your scalp to create a smooth base. If you’ve got a bare scalp, you’re already ahead. No tying, no tucking—just pop the cap on and go. But if you do have hair, the goal is simple: keep it as flat and smooth as possible. The flatter the base, the more natural your wig will sit—and the less likely it is to do something dramatic mid-day.

Here’s how to tame your mane depending on your hair length:

Short Hair: Twist small sections into little flat bunches, then pin them down securely with bobby pins.

Shoulder-Length Hair: Pull your hair into a low ponytail or bun at the nape of your neck. Use hair ties to keep it snug, and a few bobby pins to flatten it out if needed.

Long Hair: Divide your hair into four sections and braid each one (cornrow style is best if you can manage it). Got extra length? Wrap the braids around your head like a crown and pin them in place.

Take your time here. A little extra effort now will make everything look smoother, feel better, and stay put longer.

Step 3 – Spray Scalp Protector Spray

Spritz scalp protector spray to reduce irritation and keep your scalp comfortable under the cap. This step isn’t a must, but it’s highly recommended if you’ve got a sensitive scalp. Many wearers find it helpful to minimize irritation and itchiness.

Plenty of wig-wearers swear by it, and once you try it, you might too. You can find scalp protector spray at most pharmacies or supermarkets— A quick spritz, and you’re good to go.

Step 4 – Align and Slip on Your Wig Cap

Start at your forehead and pull the wig cap over your head to the nape of your neck, smoothing it snugly over your hair.

Now stretch the cap over the back of your head and down to your neck until it feels snug but comfy. Don’t forget to tuck it behind your ears—no one wants their ears hiding under there.

Top Tip: Got an uneven hairline or a widow’s peak? Line the edge of the cap with the lowest point of your hairline. That way, no sneaky strands show through.

And if you want a wig that matches your hairline perfectly? At Newtimes Hair, we’ve got custom options that blend in flawlessly.

Step 5 – Secure Your Wig Cap

Use bobby pins or adhesive spray to keep your wig cap from slipping during the day. Some wearers prefer to put their wig cap directly over their flattened and tied-up hair, and that’s often enough. But if your cap tends to slip, it’s a good idea to secure it.

1. Bobby Pins

Keeping your wig cap in check? Bobby pins to the rescue! Just slide them over the edge of your cap and catch a bit of your own hair underneath—boom, snug and secure.

For extra staying power, dot a few pins around your head, especially near the ears and nape. No one likes a wobbly wig!

2. Wig Adhesive Spray

Want your wig to stay put through wind, dance moves, or a full-on hair flip? Wig adhesive spray has your back.

It gives a stronger hold without being mean to your scalp. Just spritz, press, and go live your best hair life.

Quick Tip: Gently lift a section of the cap, and mist a dash of adhesive underneath. Dress down for a few seconds until it’s all set. You can also speed dry it by using a hair dryer on cool. Never spray your hair with the adhesive.

Keep in mind that a wee bit will do the trick, so use sparingly. And, always make sure your skin is fit for the spray so there are no allergic reactions.

Wig tape can also be used to secure your cap. But, be very careful not to adhere it to your hair, or it could be painful. Always pick what feels right for you, or mix and match for extra hold.

Step 6 – Put Your Wig On

Align your wig with your hairline and adjust it over the cap for a natural, secure fit. Start by positioning your wig over the wig cap, aligning it with your natural front hairline. If you have a lace front wig, you should line it up approximately half an inch from your hairline instead.

For a detailed guide to putting on a wig, read our related posts on How to put on a wig, and how to secure it into place.

How Do You Keep Short Hair Under Your Wig Cap

If your hair is short, you need to make sure your hair stays as flat against your scalp as possible, setting a perfect stage for the wig cap.

Hair gel or spray will have the say. These are your go-to products for keeping shorter strands behaving under wraps.

For a start, apply a decent amount of hair strong-hold gel over your hair. Be sure to distribute it evenly – a fine-toothed comb can make this job easy while removing excess product.

Let the gel dry completely before putting on your wig cap; Or, things will soon get very messy! You can also put your hairdryer on cool and use it to speed up the drying process.

Does Your Wig Cap Positioning Change with Lace Front Wigs?

Yes, positioning the wig cap correctly is crucial for lace front wigs. This will help achieve a super realistic-looking hairline.

Place the wig cap slightly behind the natural hairline, allowing the lace front to blend with your skin seamlessly.

This approach helps create a subtle and undetectable transition between the wig and your skin for the most realistic hairline and natural-looking wig installation.

Perfect Transformation with Newtimes Hair Wigs

We work with over 2,000 salons and wig stores. So we get first-hand tips and industry tips to offer along with our excellent human hair wigs.

If you are a stylist or salon owner, knowing how to put a wig cap on properly is the easiest way to bring your game to the next level and keep your locks looking glamorous all day and all night.

Complete your or your client’s look with our tips for wearing a wig with long hair.

Fequently Asked Questions About How to Put on a Wig Cap