A lace front wig can look absolutely natural — or obviously like a wig — depending on how you style it. The difference comes down to a few key steps that most beginners skip. This guide walks you through exactly how to style a lace front wig from install to finish for a flawless, undetectable result.
What You'll Need
- Rat-tail comb (for parting)
- Wide-tooth comb or wig brush (for detangling)
- Edge brush (small, firm bristle brush)
- Edge control or light-hold gel
- Small scissors (for trimming lace)
- Dark eyeshadow or scalp concealer (for the part line)
- Flat iron or curling iron (if heat styling — human hair only)
- Heat protectant spray (for human hair)
- Light-hold hairspray or wig serum
You'll find most of these in our wig tools & styling and edge control & baby hair products collections.
Step 1: Prep the Wig
Before installing, make sure the wig is detangled and in its base style. If it's a new wig, gently finger-detangle and then use a wide-tooth comb from ends to roots. If you plan to heat style, do it now before installing — it's easier to curl or straighten the wig on a wig stand before putting it on your head.
Step 2: Trim the Lace
If the lace hasn't been pre-cut, trim it now. Using small scissors, carefully cut along the hairline, leaving about 1–2mm of lace beyond the hair knots. Cut in small snips rather than long strokes for a clean, natural edge. If your wig is a wear & go style, the lace is already pre-cut — skip this step entirely.
Step 3: Install the Wig
Put on your wig cap. Place the wig on your head, aligning the front lace with your natural hairline. Adjust the straps for a snug fit and secure the combs. If using adhesive, apply a thin layer along your hairline and press the lace down gently. Browse our lace glue & adhesives for secure hold options.
Step 4: Create Your Part
Use a rat-tail comb to create a clean, precise part. For a middle part, align the comb with the center of your nose and drag straight back. For a side part, start above your eyebrow arch.
Pro tip: Apply a small amount of dark brown or black eyeshadow along the part line with a small brush. This creates depth and makes the part look like it's growing from your scalp.
Step 5: Lay Your Edges
Edges are what separate a great wig install from an obvious one. Apply a small amount of edge control along your natural hairline with your fingertip. Use a soft edge brush to shape baby hairs in a natural pattern — small swirls, gentle curves, nothing too sculpted. Less is more.
Step 6: Final Styling
Style the body of the wig as desired. For straight wigs, a light smoothing serum and a flat iron pass keeps the style polished. For body wave and curly & wavy styles, scrunch with a curl-refreshing cream from our wig care collection and air dry for the best results.
How to Make the Hairline Look Undetectable
- Choose HD lace — thinner lace melts into the skin more naturally than standard lace. Browse our 13x4 lace front wigs and 13x6 lace front wigs.
- Apply foundation or concealer matching your skin tone lightly over visible lace
- Use a blow dryer on low to warm and flatten the lace against the skin
- Keep baby hairs subtle and natural — over-sculpted edges draw attention
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my lace front wig from lifting?
Use a strong-hold lace adhesive along the hairline, and make sure the wig cap fits snugly. A wig grip headband under the wig adds extra security without adhesive.
Can I curl or straighten a lace front wig?
Yes — if it's a human hair wig. Always use a heat protectant spray first and keep temperatures below 380°F. Synthetic lace front wigs cannot be heat styled unless specifically labeled heat-resistant.
How do I refresh a lace front wig between washes?
Mist lightly with water and a detangling spray from our wig care collection. For wavy or curly styles, scrunch gently. For straight styles, run a wide-tooth comb through and smooth with a light serum. Store on a wig stand between wears to preserve the style.