Whether you're new to wigs or finally ready to upgrade your routine, making a few beginner mistakes is totally normal. The good news? Most wig problems — lifting lace, frizziness, shedding, bulky installs — can be fixed easily once you understand what’s causing them.
Here’s your definitive guide to the top 10 wig mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them for a flawless, long-lasting install every time.
1. Choosing the Wrong Cap Size
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is wearing a wig that’s either too tight or too loose.
A tight wig causes headaches; a loose one won’t stay put.
How to Avoid It
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Measure your head circumference before buying
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Choose between small, medium, or large caps based on your measurements
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Look for adjustable straps or elastic bands for extra fit security
2. Not Prepping Your Natural Hair Properly
Skipping hair prep is the fastest way to get a lumpy, unnatural install.
How to Avoid It
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Braid your hair flat (cornrows work best)
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Use a wig cap to smooth everything down
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Moisturize your natural hair first to prevent dryness under the wig
3. Ignoring Lace Tint or Makeup Matching
If your lace looks too light or too dark, the wig instantly looks unnatural.
How to Avoid It
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Tint your lace with lace tint spray or foundation that matches your skin tone
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Always match to your scalp shade — not your face or chest
4. Overplucking the Hairline
You want a natural hairline — not bald spots.
Beginners often pluck too much, too fast.
How to Avoid It
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Pluck slowly in small sections
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Never pluck while the wig is wet
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Use photos of real hairlines as a reference
5. Using Too Much Glue
More glue does not equal more security.
Too much adhesive causes build-up, itching, and lifting.
How to Avoid It
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Apply thin layers of adhesive
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Let each layer turn tacky before adding the next
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Consider switching to gel or a glue less install for everyday wear
6. Cutting the Lace Straight Across
A straight, sharp cut makes the wig painfully obvious.
How to Avoid It
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Cut in a zig-zag motion
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Trim little by little — you can always remove more later
7. Choosing the Wrong Density
Too thick or too thin = an unnatural look.
Beginners often get 250% density for their first wig, not realizing it can look bulky.
How to Avoid It
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150% = Natural
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180% = Full
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200–250% = Glam / Voluminous
Choose density based on your preferred look and your head size.
8. Not Styling the Wig After Installing
Wigs need finesse.
If you install and go, it’ll look “wiggy.”
How to Avoid It
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Use a hot comb to flatten the top
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Add light layers for movement
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Use wax stick + heat to remove bulkiness
9. Using the Wrong Products
Regular hair products are often too heavy or too oily for wigs and cause tangles or build up.
How to Avoid It
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Use wig-friendly shampoos and conditioners
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Avoid heavy oils (especially on straight hair)
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Stick to lightweight serums and leave-in sprays
10. Not Storing the Wig Properly
Throwing your wig anywhere is a guaranteed way to cause tangling, dryness, and shedding.
How to Avoid It
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Store on a wig stand or mannequin head
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Keep away from heat and sunlight
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Use silk bags when traveling
Final Thoughts
Every wig beginner makes these mistakes — but once you learn the basics, your installs become smoother, flatter, and much longer-lasting. The key is simple: prep well, use the right products, customize slowly, and take your time.