Omar Khalid
Styling a cheap plastic wig can be a fun and affordable way to change up your look. Whether it's for a Halloween costume, drag performance, or just for everyday wear, there are several ways to make your wig look more realistic and stylish. From cutting and trimming the wig to using the right products and tools for washing and styling, there are plenty of tips and tricks to elevate the look of an inexpensive wig.
How to style a cheap plastic wig
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Washing | Use laundry detergent and fabric softener, then hang to dry |
| Combing | Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle the wig |
| Trimming | Use thinning scissors to trim the wig into a more natural shape |
| Straightening | Use a straightener on a low setting to avoid melting the fibres |
| Reducing shine | Dust the wig with baby powder to reduce synthetic shine |
| Styling | Place the wig on a styrofoam head or a mannequin head for easier styling |
| Curling | Use foam curlers and a steamer to curl the wig |
| Parting | Spray the roots with water and use a comb to change the part |
| Lace front | Use makeup to conceal the lace front and blend it with your scalp |
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$23.99 $29.99
What You'll Learn
Use a styrofoam head for easier styling
Styling a wig on a styrofoam head is a great way to make the process smoother and less prone to accidental snags and tears. Styrofoam heads are lightweight and come in different sizes, so choose one that matches the size of your wig so as not to stretch it out. You can buy them for $5–$10 at a beauty supply store, costuming store, or on Amazon.
To use a styrofoam head for styling, start by securing your wig to the head with pins. Place a pin in each ear tab and one in the nape of the neck. If your wig has delicate hand-tied areas, such as lace fronts or mono tops, avoid pinning these areas as they may rip. Instead, place your pins in the sturdier machine-made areas. Once your wig is pinned to the head, you can attach the suction cup to a smooth surface, such as a table, counter, or sink top.
With your wig securely in place, you can easily style it using brushes, combs, or heat styling tools. You can also use a styrofoam head to store your wig when you're not wearing it, helping to maintain its shape and prevent tangles. Styrofoam heads are also great for setting your wig in hot rollers!
If you plan to use products like hair spray, dye, paint, or glue, consider wrapping your styrofoam head in plastic wrap to keep it from getting dirty. Alternatively, you can use a canvas block and tripod for a more expensive option.
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Wash with laundry detergent and fabric softener
To style a cheap plastic wig, one of the key steps is to wash it with laundry detergent and fabric softener. This process can help remove oils, grime, and makeup from the wig, giving it a fresh and clean look. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Prepare the Wig:
Before washing, use a wide-toothed comb or brush to gently remove any tangles from the wig. Start from the ends of the wig and work your way up to the roots. This step is important to prevent the wig from becoming more tangled during the washing process.
Create the Cleaning Solution:
Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm to cool water. It is important to avoid using hot water as it can undo the styling and damage the synthetic fibers of the wig. Add about one tablespoon of a mild laundry detergent specifically meant for delicate fabrics, such as Woolite or Dreft. You can also use a fragrance-free detergent if you are sensitive to strong scents. Stir the water gently to create a soapy solution.
Wash the Wig:
Submerge the wig completely in the soapy solution and allow it to soak. The soaking time can vary depending on the condition of your wig. For a quick refresh, soak it for a few minutes, but if the wig is particularly dirty or oily, you can soak it for longer, up to an hour or even overnight.
Rinse and Condition:
After soaking, drain the sink and gently rinse the wig under cool, clear running water to remove any residual detergent. Gently squeeze out the excess water from the wig, being careful not to wring or twist it, as this can damage the fibers. Refill the basin with cool water and add about one tablespoon of fabric softener, such as Downy or Snuggle. Submerge the wig in this solution for a few minutes to condition and soften the fibers.
Drying and Styling:
Gently remove the wig from the fabric softener solution and again, squeeze out the excess water. Hang the wig upside down on a wig stand or use large S-hooks to hang it by the adjustable band on your shower curtain bar. Allow the wig to air dry completely. Once dry, you can style it as desired. You can use a low-heat straightener or curling iron to restyle the wig, being careful not to apply too much heat to avoid melting the fibers.
By following these steps, you can effectively wash and style your cheap plastic wig using laundry detergent and fabric softener, giving it a fresh and clean appearance.
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Cut and trim to improve the shape
Cutting and trimming a wig can help achieve a more natural look, create a more flattering style, shorten or add bangs, and remove damage. It is important to remember that synthetic hair behaves differently from human hair and that once the wig is cut, it cannot be returned to its original length. Therefore, it is recommended to take your wig to a professional hairstylist with experience cutting synthetic hair. However, if you choose to cut your wig at home, here are some general guidelines:
First, prepare the wig by placing it on a wig stand and securing it with pins. Comb through the hair to remove any tangles and smooth it out. Start cutting at the back of the wig, working in small sections. Hold the hair flat between your middle and index fingers, and cut at a 45-degree angle to achieve a more natural look. Cut the hair to the desired length, making small, even snips to prevent accidents. You can also add layers to create volume and shape. Remember to trim the entire wig until all the ends are the same length.
When cutting bangs, it is crucial to take your time. Start by gathering the hair over your forehead that you want to cut and gently pulling it down to ensure smoothness. You can use a rattail comb to part the bangs from the rest of the hair. Cut the bangs at a 45-degree angle, starting in the middle, and trim to the desired length. After cutting, comb the bangs down to check if they are even, and make any necessary adjustments.
To thin a wig and achieve a softer effect, use thinning scissors or shears. Position the scissors about an inch away from the roots and gently close them, allowing the teeth to blend into the hair. You can create soft, natural layers by using a snipping motion instead of cutting straight across. Step back and assess the wig's balance, especially around the front and crown, to ensure a flattering style.
Finally, give the wig a good shake to blend the layers and remove any loose hair clippings. Style the wig as desired, and make any final adjustments to ensure a perfect cut and shape. Remember, it is always better to start with a longer length and gradually trim to your preference.
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Use a steamer to loosen curls
Steaming is a quick and easy way to style a synthetic wig, and it can also help extend its lifespan. It is a gentle method that adds moisture to the fibres, softening and smoothing them.
To loosen curls in a wig using a steamer, start by holding the wig 12 inches away from the steam plate. Press the 'steam' button, ensuring that the iron is in an upright position. Allow the steam to gently spread across the 12 inches, lightly touching the wig's hair.
For curly wigs, it is important not to comb or brush the wig after steaming. Instead, gently tousle the hair with your fingertips. If you wish to loosen the curls further, gently move the curls with your fingers but do not brush or comb them.
For large, soft curls, you can use a heated roller brush on a low setting to separate the fibres. Alternatively, you can use rollers, perm rods, or flexible curling rods to set the curls. Place a plastic bag over the wig and put the steamer underneath. Allow the wig to steam for 20-30 minutes, then let it cool for 20 minutes before removing the bag. Ensure the wig is completely dry before removing the rollers, as the curls will not set if the wig is still wet.
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Conceal the lace with makeup
To conceal the lace front of a wig with makeup, you will need the following: foundation/concealer, a fluffy makeup brush, an angled brush, a sponge, and lace spray or gel.
First, turn the wig inside out, then pour some foundation onto the back of your hand. Using a sponge, gently dab the foundation onto the lace. Once you have finished applying the foundation, go over it again with your sponge, blending it evenly. You do not need to add extra foundation. Next, take a skinny angled brush and some concealer or foundation and apply this down the middle of the part.
After this, use a lace spray or holding spray, or a gel made for lace, and allow it to dry for about half an hour. If there are any areas where the lace did not stick down, you can apply some glue, allowing it to dry clear.
To clean the lace and remove any makeup buildup, dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol and gently dab it onto the lace. Put a folded washcloth underneath to absorb the makeup.
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Frequently asked questions
To make a cheap plastic wig look more realistic, try styling it on a styrofoam head, which usually costs around $5 to $10. This will make it easier to style the back of the wig. You can also trim the wig to give it a more natural shape. To reduce the synthetic shine, dust the wig with baby powder.
To make a cheap plastic wig look less shiny, try dusting it with baby powder. This will give the wig a more natural, matte finish.
To make a cheap plastic wig look less tangled, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle any knots. You can also use water and a comb to change the part.
