Your wig’s flawless finish starts with what’s underneath
Let’s talk about what really makes a wig look *chef’s kiss* flawless—it’s not just the wig itself, it’s what’s happening underneath.
Braiding your hair before putting on a wig is a complete game-changer. It keeps your natural hair protected, lays the perfect base for your wig, and makes sure everything stays secure and seamless all day long.
Think of it as the primer to your wig’s foundation; it sets the stage for perfection. Whether you’re a cornrows queen, a fan of twists, or you just need a quick braid fix, we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading, as we’re laying out the how-tos of wig-worthy braiding, from tools and prep to techniques that suit every hair type and length. Plus, we’ll spill the tea on common mistakes to avoid and tips to keep your braids looking fresh.
Why braiding is important for your wig
Braiding your hair before wearing a wig isn’t just an extra step—it’s the key to a flawless finish. Without a proper foundation, even the best wig can look bulky or uneven. A flat, secure base makes sure your wig fits like a glove and stays put, no matter how long your day (or night) is.
Braiding also protects your natural hair from the wear and tear of daily wig use. Tangling and breakage can happen when hair isn’t tucked away properly, and nobody wants that. By braiding your hair, you’re keeping it organized, secure, and shielded from friction.
And let’s talk about bulk—nothing kills a look faster than lumpy hair under your wig. Proper braiding smooths everything out, making your wig look natural and seamless. Plus, a good braid base extends the life of your wig by reducing unnecessary stress on the wig cap and fibers.
If you’re rocking a lace front, a full cap, or anything in between, braiding sets the foundation for a polished, professional look. It’s not just a technique; it’s a non-negotiable step for wig perfection.
Trust us, your wig (and natural hair) will appreciate the extra effort.
Tools you’ll need for braiding hair for a wig
Before you start braiding, gathering the right tools is essential for creating a flat, secure base that keeps your wig looking flawless. Here’s your must-have list:
☐ Wide-tooth comb
Perfect for detangling your hair without causing breakage.
☐ Rat-tail comb
Helps with clean, precise sectioning for neat braids.
☐ Hair ties or small rubber bands
Essential for securing the ends of your braids. Opt for snag-free options to avoid damage.
☐ Moisturizing leave-in conditioner or styling cream
Keeps your hair hydrated and makes braiding easier, reducing tension and the risk of breakage.
☐ Wig cap
Holds your braids in place, creates a smooth surface, and adds an extra layer of protection between your hair and the wig.
Having these tools on hand ensures the process is seamless and stress-free. A little preparation goes a long way in setting up the perfect foundation for your wig—and keeps both your natural hair and wig looking their absolute best.
Prepping your hair for braiding
Preparation is key to creating smooth, comfortable braids that sit flat under your wig. Taking a few extra minutes to prep your hair will make the braiding process easier and help protect your natural hair from damage. Here’s how to get started:
Detangling
Start with clean, detangled hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently remove any knots, working from the ends up to the roots. Detangling will keep your braid smooth and reduce the risk of snagging or breakage during braiding. Skipping this step can lead to bumpy braids that create an uneven wig foundation.
Moisturizing
Hydration is essential. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight styling cream to keep your hair soft and pliable. This not only makes braiding easier but also helps prevent dryness and breakage while your hair is tucked away under the wig. Pay extra attention to your ends, as they’re the most vulnerable to damage.
Sectioning
Using a rat-tail comb, divide your hair into even sections. The number of sections depends on your hair’s thickness and the type of braids you’re creating. Clean, consistent sections result in neat braids that lay flat and evenly distribute the weight of your wig.
Remember, a little prep goes a long way—so don’t skip these steps!
How to braid hair for a wig (a step-by-step guide)
Creating the perfect braid base for your wig starts with choosing the right technique for your hair type, length, and the style of wig you’re wearing. Here’s a breakdown of four popular methods, complete with step-by-step instructions and pro tips for each.
Option 1: Cornrows
Cornrows are the gold standard for wig wearers looking for a sleek, flat foundation. They work well for all hair lengths and textures, providing a smooth base that keeps your wig secure.
1. Part your hair into clean, even rows using a rat-tail comb. The number of rows depends on your hair’s thickness—thinner hair may need more sections for a flat foundation.
2. Start at the front of each row and divide the hair into three equal sections.
3. Begin braiding by crossing the side sections under the middle section while incorporating more hair from the row as you go.
4. Continue braiding down the row, keeping the braid close to your scalp. Secure the end with a small rubber band.
5. Repeat for all rows until your entire head is braided.
Pro tips:
– Use a bit of styling cream to keep flyaways in check.
– Keep the tension firm but not too tight to avoid discomfort or damage.
Option 2: Plaits of loose braids
Plaits, or individual loose braids, are a quick and beginner-friendly option for prepping your hair under a wig. They’re ideal for short-term wear or fuller wigs where a perfectly flat base isn’t necessary.
1. Divide your hair into small, even sections using a wide-tooth comb.
2. For each section, divide the hair into three parts and braid loosely, starting at the roots and working your way down.
3. Secure the ends with rubber bands.
4. Tuck the finished plaits flat against your head and secure them with bobby pins if needed.
Pro tips:
– This method works best for wigs with a lot of volume, as the loose braids can create a slightly bulkier base.
– Keep the plaits small to minimize bumps under your wig.
Option 3: Twist braids
Twist braids are perfect for natural hair textures, offering a protective style that’s easy to create and maintain. These two-strand twists are gentle on your hair and provide a flat, comfortable base for wigs.
1. Start by sectioning your hair into small, even parts.
2. For each section, divide the hair into two strands.
3. Twist the strands around each other, starting at the roots and working downward.
4. Secure the ends with rubber bands.
5. Tuck the twists flat against your scalp and pin them in place if necessary.
Pro tips:
– Twist braids are ideal for textured wigs, as they create a natural-looking base that blends seamlessly.
– Keep the sections small for a flatter foundation.
Option 4: Braiding short hair
Short hair can be tricky to braid, but with a little creativity, you can still create a smooth base for your wig. Pin curls are a great alternative if your hair is too short for traditional braids.
1. If your hair is long enough, create small plaits or twists and secure them with rubber bands.
2. For very short hair, use a rat-tail comb to create small sections.
3. Twist each section into a pin curl by wrapping it around your finger and securing it flat against your scalp with a bobby pin.
4. Repeat until all your hair is pinned down evenly.
Pro tips:
– Use a wig cap to smooth and hold your base in place.
– For pixie cuts, a gel or styling cream can help flatten your hair for a seamless fit under the wig.
So, choose the right braiding method for your hair type and wig style, and you’ll set the stage for a secure, comfortable fit that looks and feels amazing.
Common braiding mistakes to avoid
Even with the best intentions, braiding mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid and how to fix them if they occur:
✗ Making braids too tight
Tight braids might feel secure, but they can lead to traction alopecia—a condition that causes hair loss due to excessive tension on the scalp. If you feel pain or notice redness after braiding, your braids are too tight.
Fix it: Loosen the braids immediately to relieve tension. Massage your scalp with lightweight oil to promote circulation and soothe discomfort.
✗ Uneven sections causing bulkiness
Inconsistent sections can create lumps or bumps under your wig, ruining the sleek finish. Uneven braids can also make the wig sit unevenly on your head.
Fix it: Take your time to part your hair evenly using a rat-tail comb. If bulkiness happens, re-braid the problematic sections, focusing on making them flat.
✗ Skipping moisture or neglecting edges
Braiding without moisturizing can lead to dryness and breakage, especially along delicate edges.
Fix it: Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream before braiding. Pay extra attention to your edges by using a nourishing edge control product to keep them healthy and smooth.
Make sure to address these issues early on. That way, you’ll protect your natural hair and create a flawless foundation for your wig every time.
Caring for your braided hair under the wig
Taking care of your braided hair while wearing a wig is essential for keeping both your natural hair and scalp healthy. Proper maintenance prevents itchiness, irritation, and breakage, ensuring your braids stay fresh and your wig looks flawless.
Washing and maintaining braids
It’s important to keep your braids clean to avoid buildup. Use a diluted sulfate-free shampoo to gently cleanse your scalp, focusing on the roots. Apply it with a spray bottle or applicator tip to avoid drenching the braids. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a lightweight leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized.
Scalp care tips
Wearing a wig for long periods can make your scalp feel dry or itchy. To combat this, use scalp oils or sprays specifically designed for braids to maintain hydration. Massage your scalp regularly to boost circulation and keep it healthy. If irritation occurs, give your scalp a break from the wig for a day or two.
When to rebraid
Rebraid your hair every 2–4 weeks, depending on your hair’s texture and how well the braids hold up. Rebraiding prevents matting, maintains a smooth base, and keeps your natural hair protected under the wig.
Braids that slay, wigs that wow
As we’ve learned, the secret to a wig that fits perfectly and looks flawless is all about the braids underneath. A smooth, secure base keeps your wig snug, protects your hair, and makes everything look seamless. With these braiding tips, you’re set to master wig prep like a pro.
Check out The Lauren Ashtyn Collection’s wigs made for every style and hair type. Need a little extra help? Our stylists have all the insider tips to keep your wigs and braids on point. Because your hair deserves nothing less.
