Introduction
How To Braid Hair Under Wig: Whether you’re a wig enthusiast, undergoing medical treatments, or simply looking to protect your natural hair, knowing how to braid your hair correctly under a wig can make all the difference in your wig-wearing experience. Braiding your hair under a wig serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it creates a flat and smooth foundation, which ensures the wig sits securely and looks more realistic on your head.
This is particularly important if you have thick or long hair that could create bulges or unevenness under the wig. Secondly, braiding helps to protect your natural hair from potential tangling and damage caused by friction between the wig and your hair.We will take you through various braiding techniques, such as French braids, Dutch braids, cornrows, and others, to suit different hair lengths and textures. We’ll also provide tips on how to properly secure the braids and ensure they are comfortable for extended wear.
Whether you’re a beginner or already familiar with braiding, our user-friendly instructions and helpful tips will equip you with the skills to braid your hair effectively under a wig, enhancing your overall wig-wearing experience. Get ready to embrace the versatility and confidence that come with knowing how to braid your hair flawlessly under any wig style.
Should you braid your hair under a wig?
Having hair in braids (your own hair”> is one of the three ideal ways to wear your hair under the wig. While not at flat as other styles, it allows for hair to be protected, and makes it easier for some women to maintain. It also allows for easier access to the scalp for cleansing and moisturizing.
Braiding your hair under a wig is generally a good idea and highly recommended for several reasons. It serves as the foundation for a comfortable and natural-looking wig hairstyle and offers various benefits for both wig wearers and their natural hair.
Flat and Smooth Base: Braiding your hair under a wig creates a flat and smooth base, which helps the wig sit securely on your head. This prevents any bumps or lumps from showing through the wig and ensures a more seamless and realistic appearance.
Protects Natural Hair: Braiding provides a protective barrier for your natural hair, especially if you plan to wear the wig for an extended period. By braiding your hair, you minimize friction between the wig and your hair, reducing the risk of tangling, matting, and potential damage to your locks.
Longer Wig Lifespan: When you braid your hair under a wig, you help maintain the wig’s quality and extend its lifespan. Without the friction and tangles that might occur with loose hair, the wig is less likely to suffer wear and tear.
Versatility and Convenience: Braided hair allows for easier wig application and removal. When you braid your hair, the wig cap has something to grip onto, making it simpler to secure the wig in place, even for beginners.
What braids are best for under wigs?
If you want your wig to lay naturally and blend seamlessly, you’ll need to make sure that your natural hair is as flat as possible before installing the unit. The most common way to flatten your natural hair is to braid it down in cornrows.
The best braids for wearing under wigs are those that provide a smooth and flat foundation while offering maximum protection to your natural hair. Different braiding techniques work well for various hair types and wig styles. Here are some popular and effective braids to consider:
Cornrows: Cornrows are small, flat braids that closely follow the scalp. They are an excellent choice for under wigs because they create a seamless base and keep your hair secure and protected. Cornrows work well for all hair textures and are particularly beneficial for thick or curly hair.
French Braids: French braids are classic and versatile, with three strands woven together in a neat and uniform pattern. They lay flat against the head, making them ideal for creating a smooth base under wigs. French braids work well for medium to long hair.
Dutch Braids: Similar to French braids, Dutch braids are also three-strand braids but with a unique inside-out technique that creates a more prominent and textured look. Dutch braids offer a secure and visually appealing base for wigs.
Box Braids: Box braids involve sectioning the hair into small squares and braiding each section. These individual braids are excellent for under wigs, providing a uniform and tidy foundation while keeping your hair protected.
Is it possible to braid a wig?
To braid a wig, you take a slim part of your hair extension, pass it through the eye of the needle and get it through the cap. After that, pull the end of your hair extension out and hang it out of the wig cap.
Yes, it is possible to braid a wig, but the ease and success of braiding will depend on the type of wig and its construction. Generally, human hair wigs and some high-quality synthetic wigs are more suitable for braiding, as they can withstand the manipulation and tension involved in braiding.
Human hair wigs, being made from natural hair, can be treated similarly to your own hair. You can braid them into various styles, such as French braids, cornrows, or box braids, just like you would with your natural hair. Human hair wigs offer more versatility, allowing you to create a wide range of braided looks.
On the other hand, some synthetic wigs may not be as amenable to braiding due to their fiber type and construction. Lower-quality synthetic wigs can be more prone to tangling and may not hold braids well. However, some premium synthetic wigs are designed with heat-resistant fibers that can handle light braiding, but it’s essential to be gentle to avoid damage.
If you want a braided wig but prefer a wig that isn’t inherently designed for braiding, you can explore pre-braided wig options. Many wig manufacturers offer pre-braided wig styles, including box braids, Senegalese twists, and other braid styles, saving you the time and effort of braiding the wig yourself.
Before attempting to braid a wig, check the wig’s care and styling instructions, and if you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with a professional wig stylist to ensure you handle the wig appropriately and maintain its longevity and quality.
Why wear braided wig?
Protect your hair
The fit is so secure it can be worn without glue, and unlike protective styles that limit access to the scalp area, once the wig is off you can feed your hair the nutrients it needs.
There are several compelling reasons why people choose to wear braided wigs:
Versatility: Braided wigs offer versatility in hairstyling without the commitment of having to braid your natural hair. You can experiment with various braid styles, such as cornrows, box braids, or Senegalese twists, without the time and effort required to create these intricate looks from scratch.
Protective Styling: Braided wigs serve as a protective hairstyle for your natural hair. They shield your hair from external elements, reducing exposure to heat, styling products, and daily manipulation, which can lead to hair damage and breakage.
Time-Saving: With a braided wig, you can achieve a stylish and elaborate braid hairstyle instantly, saving you hours of sitting in a salon chair. It’s a convenient option for those who want a fabulous look without spending a lot of time on hairstyling.
Temporary Change: Braided wigs allow you to change your hairstyle temporarily, giving you the freedom to switch between different looks as desired. You can wear a braided wig for a special event or occasion and then easily revert to your natural hair or other wig styles.
Cultural and Fashion Expression: Braided hairstyles hold cultural significance and can be a powerful way to express your identity and heritage. Wearing a braided wig allows you to embrace these cultural connections and showcase your individuality through your hairstyle choices.
What are the benefits of braiding hair under a wig?
Braiding hair under a wig offers several benefits that contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable wig-wearing experience:
Smooth Foundation: Braiding creates a flat and smooth foundation for the wig to rest on, ensuring a more seamless and natural look. It prevents bumps or lumps that might occur with loose hair, making the wig appear more realistic.
Protects Natural Hair: Braiding provides a protective barrier for your natural hair, especially if you wear wigs frequently or for extended periods. The braids help minimize friction between the wig and your hair, reducing the risk of tangling, matting, and potential damage caused by constant rubbing.
Reduces Wig Slippage: When your hair is braided, it provides a secure base for the wig to grip onto, minimizing wig slippage and ensuring a more stable fit. This is particularly beneficial if you have a lot of hair or if you’re wearing the wig for active or long-duration events.
Comfortable Wear: Braided hair under a wig feels more comfortable, as it prevents your natural hair from getting tangled or pulled by the wig’s cap. It eliminates the need to adjust the wig constantly and reduces any discomfort from the wig rubbing against your scalp.
Longer Wig Lifespan: Braiding your hair helps maintain the quality and longevity of the wig. With your natural hair neatly braided and protected, the wig experiences less wear and tear, ensuring it retains its original appearance for a longer time.
Versatility in Wig Styles: Braided hair provides a versatile foundation for various wig styles. Whether you prefer wearing your wig in a ponytail, updo, or simply down, the braids offer flexibility and ease in styling the wig.
Which braiding techniques are best for different hair types?
Different braiding techniques work best for various hair types, accommodating the texture, length, and thickness of your natural hair. Here are some braiding techniques and their suitability for different hair types:
Cornrows: Cornrows are an excellent choice for all hair types, especially for those with thick, coarse, or curly hair. These small, flat braids closely follow the scalp and offer a secure and long-lasting foundation for wigs.
French Braids: French braids work well for medium to long hair of any texture. They are versatile and can create a neat and elegant base for wigs, providing a smooth surface for the wig to rest on.
Dutch Braids: Similar to French braids, Dutch braids are suitable for medium to long hair and work best for those with straight or wavy hair. The inside-out technique of Dutch braids adds texture and dimension to the braid, creating a stylish base for the wig.
Box Braids: Box braids are a popular choice for those with longer hair, especially for those with thick or curly hair. They involve sectioning the hair into small squares and braiding each section, providing a secure and uniform base for wigs.
Halo Braids: Halo braids, also known as crown braids, encircle the head like a crown. They are suitable for medium to long hair of any texture and create an elegant and polished foundation for wigs.
Two Strand Twists: Two strand twists work well for all hair types and provide a versatile and less time-consuming option for braiding under wigs. They are especially suitable for those with shorter hair.
Flat Twists: Flat twists are ideal for shorter hair or those with finer hair. They offer a flatter base than regular three-strand braids, ensuring a smooth surface for wig application.
When choosing a braiding technique for your hair type, consider factors such as hair length, texture, and the style of wig you plan to wear. Additionally, ensure that the braids are not too tight to avoid discomfort or potential hair damage. Experimenting with different braiding techniques will help you find the best one that suits your natural hair and enhances your wig-wearing experience.
How do I properly braid my hair to achieve a flat foundation?
To achieve a flat foundation when braiding your hair under a wig, follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful braiding process:
Preparation: Start with clean, dry, and detangled hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently remove any knots or tangles, and apply a leave-in conditioner or detangler to add moisture and make the braiding process smoother.
Sectioning: Use a rat-tail comb to create neat and even partings. Begin by parting your hair down the middle to create two sections. Then, create horizontal partings from ear to ear, dividing the hair into top and bottom sections.
Securing Sections: Clip the top section of hair out of the way using hair clips or grips to keep it separated from the bottom section while you work.
Starting the Braid: Working with the bottom section, choose the braiding technique you prefer (e.g., French braids, cornrows, or box braids). Begin the braid at the front hairline or at the nape of the neck, depending on your desired braid style.
Tension: As you braid, maintain even tension on the hair to create a flat foundation. Avoid pulling the hair too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and potential damage to your scalp and hair.
Braid Neatly: Ensure each section of the braid is neatly woven together. Use a rat-tail comb or your fingers to pick up small, even sections of hair as you work down the braid.
Final Touches: Once both braids are complete, use a styling gel or edge control product to smooth any flyaways or frizz, and apply a hair oil or serum to add shine and reduce frizz.
By following these steps and being mindful of the tension and neatness of your braids, you can achieve a flat foundation that will provide a comfortable and secure base for wearing your wig.
Are there specific care and maintenance steps for braided hair under a wig?
Yes, caring for and maintaining your braided hair under a wig is essential to ensure its longevity and keep your natural hair healthy. Here are some specific care and maintenance steps for braided hair under a wig:
Keep Your Scalp Clean: Despite wearing a wig, it’s crucial to maintain scalp hygiene. Use a dry shampoo or scalp cleanser to refresh your scalp between washes, as excess oil and product buildup can still occur.
Moisturize Your Scalp: Apply a scalp oil or moisturizer to keep your scalp nourished and prevent dryness or itchiness. Gently massage the product into your scalp with your fingertips.
Avoid Overwashing: Washing your braided hair too frequently can cause frizz and weaken the braids. Aim to wash your braids every two to three weeks or as needed.
Dry Your Braids Thoroughly: After washing your hair, ensure your braids dry completely to prevent mildew or mold from forming underneath the wig. Consider using a hairdryer on a cool setting or sitting in a well-ventilated area to air dry your braids.
Use a Satin or Silk Wig Cap: Opt for a satin or silk wig cap, as these materials help retain moisture and reduce friction, keeping your braids in better condition.
Avoid Tight Hairstyles: When styling the wig over your braided hair, avoid tight ponytails or hairstyles that can pull on the braids and cause tension.
Regularly Check the Braids: Periodically inspect your braids for any signs of damage or tension. If you notice any issues, consider removing the wig and braids to give your hair a break and make any necessary adjustments.
By following these care and maintenance steps, you can ensure your braided hair stays healthy, protected, and in great condition while wearing a wig, making the wig-wearing experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Conclusion
We’ve explored various braiding techniques suitable for different hair types and lengths, providing you with a plethora of options to suit your individual needs and wig styles. By following the step-by-step instructions and using the necessary tools and products, you can confidently braid your hair and create a comfortable and protective base for your wig.
Braiding your hair under a wig not only enhances the overall appearance and fit of the wig but also contributes to the wig’s longevity by minimizing friction and wear on the wig cap. The flat foundation offers stability and reduces slippage, ensuring you can enjoy your wig with confidence in any situation.
Moreover, the practice of braiding under a wig allows you to explore a variety of versatile hairstyles without committing to any permanent changes. It gives you the freedom to experiment with different looks and express your personal style effortlessly.
Ultimately, learning how to braid hair under a wig empowers you to take control of your wig-wearing experience, providing comfort, protection, and the opportunity to unleash your creativity. Whether you’re a wig enthusiast or a newcomer to the wig world, the knowledge gained from this guide will undoubtedly elevate your wig-wearing journey and leave you feeling confident and fabulous in every wig style you choose to rock.