In this article, I’ll walk you through how to measure wig size. Wigs can be a great option for adding fun color and style to your look without altering your natural hair with intensive salon appointments. Determining wig size is the first step in your hair journey.
My name’s Katy and I got into wig-wearing around the time Kylie Jenner premiered her fun colored hair back in 2015. The mint green and pink hues were all the rage and wigs became a common trend for the self-proclaimed beauty guru.
I myself was among the many to jump on the colored wig bandwagon at that time and it’s only gone up from there.
I was no stranger to that trend and I’ll help you determine how to size up your next wig so you can get just the right fit. Keep reading to learn how to measure your head and find the right wig size for you!
Measuring with a Measuring Tape
If you don’t already have one lying around the house, purchase a soft tape measure for this endeavor. If you don’t have a soft measuring tape, but you have a classic style measuring tape or ruler and some string, that’ll do the trick too!
First, grab the measuring tape or the string from the end and hold it at the top of your head, at the base of your forehead and scalp. Wrap the measuring tape or string around your head, just above your ears and down to the nape of your neck before wrapping it back to the top.
This will give you the measurement of your head. An easy way to find your guide for measuring is to follow your hairline all the way around your head. That’s your number!
To determine the top of the head point, as some wigs do have this measurement available, hold the measuring tape from the end just as you did to get the circumference of your head.
Holding at the base of your forehead and scalp, measure 7” straight back towards the top of your head. This will give you your top-of-head measurement.
FAQs
Here are some most commonly asked questions relating to how to measure wig size.
What is the Average Wig Size?
Most wigs range in a circumference size of 21” to 23” with the average size being 21.5”. Most wigs are made in this average sizing but wigs made in petite and large sizes are on the market as well!
How do you Measure Wigs for Men?
Measuring wig size for men is done in the same fashion as measuring for wigs for women. By using a soft tape measure or a string that is then laid flat alongside a ruler or regular tape measure, you can determine the circumference and size of the wig you’ll need.
How Can I Tell if a Wig is the Right Size?
If a wig is too large for your head, it will shift and move when you move your head side to side and back and forth. If you bend down and the wig slides forward on your forehead, it is too large for your head size.
Alternatively, if a wig is too small for your head, it will pinch and irritate around your hairline and may lead to a headache after wearing it for an extended amount of time.
Having a wig that doesn’t properly fit to your head can also allow for your natural hairline to peek through as the wig doesn’t sufficiently cover your own hair.
Wrapping Up
When shopping for wigs it’s important to purchase one that is the correct size for your head so it leaves you with a comfortable feel. Too loose and you’ll risk it falling off at the wrong time in the wrong place. Get one that’s too tight and you’ll wind up with a wig-induced headache. No fun!
Fortunately for all of us wig-wearing shoppers out there, most wigs are equipped with adjustable straps and built-in clips to help keep your faux hair securely in place.
This means if you fall between sizes for a wig you want to purchase, as long as it offers adjustability, you can order a size up and make it work.
Measure, shop, have great hair.