How to Fix a Lace Front Wig?
Lace front wigs have become a staple in the beauty world, offering a seamless blend between the wig and the natural hairline. However, like all beauty products, they can sometimes require a bit of tweaking to achieve that perfect look. Whether you're dealing with an ill-fitting wig, a receding hairline, or just general wear and tear, this guide will provide you with all the solutions you need to fix your lace front wig and keep it looking flawless.
Understanding Lace Front Wigs
Lace front wigs, renowned for their natural appearance, feature individual hair strands hand-tied to a sheer lace base, primarily at the wig's front, mimicking a natural hairline. This design not only offers a virtually undetectable boundary, allowing for versatile styling like updos and side parts but also promotes breathability for added comfort. With options like Swiss and French lace, wearers can choose based on their preference for visibility and durability. Proper care ensures these wigs, despite their delicate lace, can last significantly long, making them a favorite choice for many.
Common Issues and Detailed Fixes
1. Ill-fitting Wig:
Problem: The wig doesn't sit snugly, causing it to slide back or lift at the edges.
Solution:
If it is too big:
- Braid your hair in large braids.
- Most wigs come with adjustable straps, elastic bands, and combs at the back. Tighten the straps or fold the elastic band and sew it a little bit, which will make the band tighter to secure.
- Wear a wig grip to make it more fit.
- Fold and sew the cap in the back to make it smaller.
If it is too small:
- Braid your hair a little bit tighter.
- Wear a thin wig cap before you put the wig on.
- You can leave some natural hair and use edge cream to smooth the edge. This will leave some space so the cap doesn't need to cover the entire head.
Wig Tape/Adhesive: If adjusting doesn't help, apply wig tape or a mild adhesive along your hairline, ensuring the wig stays in place. Always do a patch test with any adhesive to avoid allergic reactions.
2. Receding or Uneven Hairline:
Problem: The wig's hairline looks unnatural.
Solution:
- Tweezing: Use tweezers to pluck hairs from the lace front. Start from the middle and work your way out, creating a staggered, natural-looking hairline. Pluck gradually to avoid over-thinning.
- Baby Hairs: Create baby hairs by trimming a few strands at the front. This gives a more natural appearance.
3. Shedding or Thinning:
Problem: Excessive shedding leads to visible thin spots.
Solution:
- Gentle Handling: Always comb the wig gently using a wide-tooth comb. Start from the tips, move upwards to avoid pulling hairs from the lace, and do some hair care if needed.
- Professional Repair: If shedding persists, consider seeking a professional wig repair service to reinforce the wig cap. If the hair loss is severe, ask the hairstylist to help you replace the frontal.
4. Lace Overhang:
Problem: Extra lace extends beyond the hairline.
Solution:
Trimming: Position the wig on your head. Using sharp scissors, trim the excess lace in a zigzag pattern. This irregular cut ensures the lace blends seamlessly with your skin.
5. Wig Appears Too Shiny:
Problem: Unnatural shine, especially in synthetic wigs.
Solution:
- Dry Shampoo: Spray a light layer of dry shampoo onto the wig and brush it through. The powder in the dry shampoo can help to absorb excess shine. This helps mattify the shine.
- Setting Powder: Lightly dust translucent setting powder over the wig for a more natural finish.
- Baby Powder: Like dry shampoo, lightly sprinkle baby powder on your wig and comb through. Make sure to use it sparingly to avoid making the wig look dusty.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Some leave-in conditioners can help reduce shine. However, ensure it's suitable for wig fibers, especially if it's synthetic.
- Matte Hairspray: There are hairsprays available that offer a matte finish. Lightly spritzing your wig with this can reduce shine.
- Avoid Oil-Based Products: If you're using any styling products, make sure they're not oil-based, as these can increase the shine of your wig.
- Natural Light Test: Always check your wig in natural light. Indoor lighting can sometimes make wigs appear shinier than they actually are.
6. Tangling and Matting:
Problem: Frequent tangling, especially at the nape.
Solution:
- You can detangle the hair with your fingers or a wide tooth comb first, and then use warm water and hair shampoo to wash it. Then apply hair conditioner on the hair for 5 minutes and wash it with warm water. You can apply some hair care oil after that, and the hair will be silky and soft again.
- Detangling Spray: Use a wig-friendly detangling spray. Spray it onto the tangled areas and gently comb through.
- Directional Washing: When washing, always run water in the direction of the hair to prevent tangling.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
- Washing: Opt for sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Gently lather the wig, ensuring you don't rub or twist the fibers.
- Drying: Pat the wig with a towel to remove excess water. Allow it to air dry on a wig stand, avoiding direct sunlight or high heat.
- Styling: Before using heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray. Always keep the temperature below 350°F to safeguard the wig fibers.
- Storage: Store on a wig stand in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain its shape and prevents tangling.
Common mistakes make when trying to fix a lace front wig
- Using Excessive Glue: Applying too much adhesive can lead to residue build-up and damage the lace and hairline.
- Rough Handling: Being too aggressive when brushing or styling can cause shedding, tangling, or even tear the lace.
- Cutting the Lace Hastily: Cutting the lace too close to the hairline or in a straight line can make the wig appear unnatural.
- Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Failing to regularly clean and condition the wig can lead to tangling, matting, and a reduced lifespan.
- Using High Heat: Exposing the wig to high temperatures from styling tools can damage the hair fibers, especially if it's synthetic.
- Improper Storage: Storing the wig without a wig stand or in a humid environment can cause it to lose its shape or develop an odor.
- Using Alcohol-based Products: These can dry out the wig, leading to brittleness and breakage.
- Over-plucking the Hairline: Trying to create a natural-looking hairline but removing too much hair can result in an overly thin and unrealistic appearance.
- Not Customizing the Wig Cap: Failing to adjust the wig cap to fit one's head can lead to discomfort and an unnatural look.
- Using the Wrong Products: Utilizing products not designed for wigs, especially those containing sulfates or alcohol, can damage the wig.
- Not Rinsing Out Products Completely: Leaving shampoo or conditioner residues can weigh the wig down and cause build-up.
- Skipping Patch Tests: Not testing products, especially adhesives, and removers, on a small skin area first can lead to allergic reactions.
- Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure the longevity and natural appearance of a lace front wig.
Conclusion
Lace front wigs are a game-changer in the world of hairstyling, offering unparalleled versatility and a natural look. However, like all prized possessions, they require a touch of maintenance now and then. With the right care and fixes, these wigs can be a long-lasting addition to your beauty collection. If you're in the market for a top-quality lace front wig that promises durability, diverse styling options, and ease of maintenance, look no further than Luvme Hair. Our collection boasts premium lace front wigs that are not only crafted with precision but are also designed to withstand common wear and tear, making styling a breeze, switching is everything.