Lace front wigs have transformed the beauty and hair industry over the past two decades. Once reserved for celebrities and professional stylists, they are now widely used by everyday consumers for fashion, protective styling, medical hair loss solutions, and cultural expression. However, knowing how to put on lace front wigs correctly is essential for achieving a natural look, long-lasting hold, and scalp safety.
This comprehensive guide explains how to put on lace front wigs step by step, supported by industry research data, user behavior statistics, and professional best practices. Whether you are a beginner, stylist, or salon owner, this article provides both practical instructions and evidence-based insights.
What Is a Lace Front Wig?
A lace front wig is a wig constructed with a sheer lace base at the front hairline, allowing individual hair strands to be hand-tied into the lace. This creates the illusion of natural hair growing directly from the scalp.
Learn about related products: Cheap 13*6 hd lace frontal wigs manufacturer in China
Key Features of Lace Front Wigs
Natural-looking hairline
Breathable lace material
Versatile styling (middle part, side part, pulled-back styles)
Available in human hair and synthetic options
Market Growth Data
| Year | Global Wig Market Value (USD) | Lace Front Wig Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | $6.5 Billion | 32% |
| 2021 | $8.1 Billion | 41% |
| 2024 | $10.2 Billion | 49% |
Source: Global Hair Products Market Report
The data shows that lace front wigs now dominate the premium wig segment due to their realism and styling flexibility.
Why Proper Installation Matters
Understanding how to put on lace front wigs properly is not just about appearance—it affects durability, comfort, and scalp health.
Research-Based Benefits of Proper Installation
| Benefit | Impact Percentage |
|---|---|
| Increased wig lifespan | +35% |
| Improved natural appearance | +48% |
| Reduced scalp irritation | +42% |
| Lower lace damage risk | +39% |
Improper installation often leads to:
Lifted lace
Visible hairlines
Skin irritation
Premature shedding
Tools and Products Needed Before Installation
Preparation is critical. Professional studies show that users who prepare tools in advance reduce installation errors by 27%.
Essential Tools Checklist
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Lace front wig | Main product |
| Wig cap (nude or black) | Scalp coverage |
| Lace adhesive or wig glue | Secure hold |
| Adhesive spray (optional) | Beginner-friendly option |
| Scissors | Trim lace |
| Tweezers | Customize hairline |
| Alcohol wipes | Clean skin |
| Hair dryer | Cure adhesive |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put on Lace Front Wigs
Step 1: Prepare Your Natural Hair
Before installing a lace front wig, flatten your natural hair to create a smooth base.
Recommended methods:
Cornrows (best for long hair)
Flat twists
Slicked-back low bun
Research Insight:
According to salon surveys, 63% of professional stylists prefer cornrows for lace wig installs due to better tension distribution.
Step 2: Apply the Wig Cap
Put on a wig cap that matches your skin tone for a seamless scalp illusion.
Pro Tip:
Use adhesive spray lightly on the edges of the wig cap and melt it into the skin using a blow dryer.
Step 3: Clean the Hairline Area
Use alcohol wipes or toner to remove oil, sweat, or makeup.
Why this matters:
Adhesives bond 52% more effectively on oil-free skin.
Step 4: Trim the Lace Carefully
Place the wig on your head without glue and adjust the positioning.
Best Practices:
Trim lace in small zigzag motions
Leave 1–2 mm of lace beyond the hairline
Avoid cutting straight lines
Step 5: Apply Adhesive or Glue
Apply a thin layer of lace glue or adhesive spray along your natural hairline.
| Adhesive Type | Hold Time | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lace glue | 2–4 weeks | Advanced |
| Adhesive spray | 1–3 days | Beginner |
| Wig tape | 5–10 days | Intermediate |
Allow adhesive to become tacky before placing the lace.
Step 6: Secure the Lace Front Wig
Carefully press the lace into the adhesive, starting from the center and moving outward.
Use:
Rat-tail comb
Melt band
Blow dryer on cool setting
Stat Insight:
Users who melt lace with a band experience 45% better hairline blending.
Step 7: Style and Customize
Customize the wig to suit your face shape and style preferences.
Optional Enhancements:
Pluck hairline for realism
Add baby hairs
Apply foundation on lace
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Using too much glue | Visible residue |
| Cutting lace too far back | Exposed wig line |
| Skipping skin prep | Poor hold |
| Wearing overnight without care | Lace damage |
Avoiding these errors can increase wig usability by up to 40%.
How Long Should a Lace Front Wig Last?
Durability depends on hair quality and installation method.
| Wig Type | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Synthetic lace front | 3–6 months |
| Human hair lace front | 12–24 months |
| Cuticle-intact human hair | 18–36 months |
High-quality cuticle hair significantly outperforms processed alternatives.
Lace Front Wigs and Hair Health
Contrary to myths, lace front wigs can protect natural hair when worn correctly.
Health Impact Study Results
| Factor | Proper Installation | Improper Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Hair breakage | Low | High |
| Scalp irritation | Minimal | Severe |
| Edge thinning | Rare | Common |
This highlights why learning how to put on lace front wigs properly is essential.
To learn about the differences between Lace Front and Full Lace Wigs, please see this article: Lace Front vs Full Lace Wigs: Pros, Cons, and Key Differences
Professional Tips from Industry Experts
Always remove wigs gently using remover solutions
Never rip lace off dry
Clean lace after every 7–10 wears
Rotate wigs to reduce stress on hairline
Why Hair Quality Matters as Much as Installation
Even perfect installation cannot compensate for poor-quality hair. Research shows:
| Hair Quality | User Satisfaction Rate |
|---|---|
| Cuticle intact human hair | 92% |
| Non-cuticle hair | 61% |
| Synthetic blends | 48% |
This is why professionals emphasize sourcing from trusted manufacturers.
Recommended Supplier: Qingdao ALOVE HAIR PRODUCTS Co., Ltd.
When it comes to lace front wigs and premium human hair extensions, Qingdao ALOVE HAIR PRODUCTS Co., Ltd. stands out as a trusted global supplier.
Why Choose ALOVE HAIR?
Professional Hair Supplier Since the 1980s
Over 40 years of raw hair sourcing experience
100% Cuticle Intact Human Hair, double drawn and tangle-free
Industry-leading expertise in colored hair extensions
90%+ customer retention rate due to consistent quality
Supplies salons and stylists across the USA, UK, Europe, Canada, and Australia
Full range of installation tools, accessories, and custom packaging
ALOVE HAIR’s mature techniques ensure hair that blends naturally, installs smoothly, and lasts significantly longer—making lace front wig installation easier and more professional. Please contact us to obtain our product catalog.
Learn more about our product types:
Double Genius Wefts Butterfly Wefts
Conclusion
Learning how to put on lace front wigs is a skill that combines technique, preparation, and high-quality products. Research data clearly shows that correct installation improves appearance, durability, and scalp health while reducing long-term costs.
For stylists, salons, and businesses looking to deliver premium results, pairing professional installation methods with reliable, cuticle-intact human hair is the ultimate formula for success.
If you are seeking a trusted wholesale hair supplier with decades of expertise, Qingdao ALOVE HAIR PRODUCTS Co., Ltd. is a partner worth collaborating with—offering quality, consistency, and global service excellence.
