Wig Caps: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing and Wearing One

We often attach emotional value to our hair. It’s a part of who we are and it’s an expression of our identity. But that doesn’t mean that we are bound to have only one hairstyle that makes our entire identity. Many of us love playing with different styles and looks and wigs are often an extension to our creativity. Some women wear wigs due to hair loss, others wear them as a protective style for their curls, while for many, it’s a creative expression and fun way to change their looks.

Although the choice and quality of the wig play a crucial role in achieving a flawless and natural look, the cap is often an overlooked aspect of the process. The cap is the foundation for styling and enhancing the natural look while rocking your wig style. That’s why it is important to choose a cap for wig that will keep your wig secure in place and help you achieve an effortless look.

Is it Necessary to Wear a Wig Cap?

You don’t need to wear a cap if you don’t want to. But if you’re willing to give it a try, several benefits make it worth considering. First and foremost, caps help to hold the wig in place. They provide a stable and secure attachment that prevents slippage and shifting of the wig throughout the day. They provide you with a sense of security while moving. This is particularly important if you’re a person who has a pretty active lifestyle.

Whether you’re dancing, working out, running, or simply going about your daily activities, the caps allow you to move with confidence. You don’t need to fear accidental wig slips from your scalp which can be particularly uncomfortable in social settings. If this sounds like you, this is a strong enough reason to buy a cap for wig so you can go about your day with ease.

Besides the security, caps also help enhance comfort. They create a barrier between your scalp and the wig, reducing friction and irritation. Plus, they also help with absorbing sweat and oil from your scalp, which helps you keep your wig clean and extend the periods between washes.

Choose the Right Wig Cap for You: What to Consider

Material

If you’re prone to headaches, which can be particularly prominent when wearing a standard fishnet cap for wigs, opt for a lightweight alternative, similar to the material used in stockings. Most stockings are made from a stretchy and lightweight polyester and you can find many caps that are made from the same material.

As such, they offer a comfortable snug to your scalp since they allow better airflow than fishnets, promoting comfort even during extended wear. Additionally, one of the most important characteristics of these caps is that they keep tucked in all of your hair to your scalp, without any flyaways peeking from the wig.

If polyester does not appeal to you, there are caps made from a blend of bamboo viscose and spandex, which feel even more comfortable on the scalp. Plus, bamboo has moisture-wicking properties, which prevents moisture buildup to your scalp. Also, bamboo is a natural and safe material, often recommended as a safer alternative for caps for those who suffer hair loss due to chemotherapy treatment.

Size

The size of the cap for the wig is ultimately the second most important thing. The right size is crucial for a comfortable and secure fit. Most caps come in standard sizes “one size fits all” that can fit both men and women. As such, they make the selection process less of a hassle since whatever you decide to choose, you can rest assured that the cap will fit your scalp perfectly. However, if you have specific requirements, try to look for caps that are designed specifically for petite and large head circumferences.

Colour

Caps for wigs typically come in neutral shades like black or nude. This is because those colours provide a seamless blend with most skin tones and hair colours. If you’re a woman of colour with a very deep dark tone, black caps will match your scalp the most, offering a discreet and natural-looking finish under your wig. If you have a lighter or fair skin colour, then you can opt for a nude colour.

Style

If you’re not a fan of wearing caps, you can also find non-slip headbands that you can wear under the wig. They not only help secure the wig in place but are also more comfortable than standard caps since they do not cover the entire scalp. They typically have adjustable tabs so you can customise the fit to your head size.

Helpful Tips for Wearing Wig Caps

Hair Preparation

Your hair should be clean, dry and free of tangles when you’re putting on the cap for wig. If you have long hair, you can braid it or pin it close to the scalp to create a flat base for the cap.

Position the Cap Properly

Place the cap over your head, starting at the front hairline and pulling it down towards the nape of your neck. Ensure that the cap covers all of your natural hair, and tuck in any flyaways. Adjust the cap so it sits snugly against your scalp.

Stretch the Cap Gently and Smooth Out Any Wrinkles

Once you place the cap in its position, stretch it gently to ensure a smooth and even fit. Pay attention to the crown and sides of your head and smooth out any wrinkles or folds in the fabric that you notice.

Use Bobby Pins if Necessarily

If you have a full head of hair that is super thick, you can use bobby pins to ensure that the cap stays securely attached to the scalp. Insert them along the perimeter of the cap or the back of your head and tuck them under the edge for a discreet and secure hold.

Trim Excess Material

Trim with scissors any excess material around the edges, but make sure to not trim too much and expose your natural hair.