How to Measure Your Head for a Wig: The Complete Wig Size Guide
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Time to read 6 min
Measure your head for a wig by using a flexible measuring tape. First, measure the circumference by wrapping the tape around your hairline. Then, measure from your front hairline over the crown to the nape of your neck. Finally, measure from ear to ear across the top of your head for accurate sizing.
Aside from what to measure on your head, this guide will help match your measurements to the right cap size for your chosen wig type. It also tackles common wig cap size issues and how to fix them. So, if you want to find the right wig size for you, keep reading and find out!
The 6 Key Wig Head Measurements (Yes, You Need All of Them) Wig Size Chart: Match Your Measurements What to Do If You're Between Sizes Sizing Tips for Different Wig Types Lace Front Wigs Full Lace and HD Lace Wigs Wig Density Quick Troubleshooting: Fit Doesn’t Feel Right? How to Measure Your Head for a Wig FAQs Why is it important to measure your head for a wig? What happens if I don’t measure at all? How do I choose the right cap size after I measure? Mistakes to avoid when measuring head for wigs? Find Best Fitting Wigs at KesWigs
The 6 Key Wig Head Measurements (Yes, You Need All of Them)
All you need is a soft measuring tape and a mirror. Keep the tape flat, measure gently, and write your numbers down. It’s a quick step that helps your wig fit just right.
Here are the six measurements every wig-wearer should know:
- Circumference: This one tells you your base size. Start at the middle of your forehead, wrap the tape behind your ears, around the nape of your neck, and back to the front. It should sit right at your natural hairline.
- Front to Nape: Measure from the middle of your forehead (at the hairline) over the crown, down to the base of your neck.
- Ear to Ear (Across Forehead): Measure from one ear to the other, straight across the forehead just above the brows.
- Ear to Ear (Over Top): Place the tape above one ear, go over the top of your head, and down to the other ear. This helps ensure a balanced lace placement.
- Temple to Temple (Around Back): From one temple, wrap the tape around the back of your head (near the occipital bone) to the opposite temple.
- Nape of Neck: Measure the width of your neck at the base. This is where the bottom of the wig cap sits.
Wig Size Chart: Match Your Measurements
Once you've got your numbers, it’s time to match them to a standard wig size. Most wigs follow a general sizing system. Here’s a basic breakdown:
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Wig Size |
Circumference (inches) |
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Petite |
20.5 to 21.5 |
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Average |
21.5 to 22.5 |
|
Large |
22.5 to 23.5 |
|
Extra Large |
23.5 and above |
Most people fall into the average range but if your other measurements are noticeably smaller or larger than average, it’s worth double-checking. Wigs with adjustable bands like most in the KesWigs glueless collection give you more flexibility to fine-tune the fit.
What to Do If You're Between Sizes
This happens more often than you’d think. If you're between sizes, go one size up. You can always tighten a wig with built-in straps or use a wig grip underneath for a snugger fit. If your wig still feels loose after these adjustments, learn how to tighten your wig for professional-level size modifications.
Trying to force a smaller size rarely ends well. It can lead to tightness at the temples, a lace front that won’t sit flat, or a wig that slides up in the back. If comfort is your priority, sizing up is the safest move.
Sizing Tips for Different Wig Types
Not all wigs are built the same. Depending on the construction, certain sizes or measurements might matter more. Here’s how sizing plays out across different styles:
Lace Front Wigs
These wigs usually only cover the front portion of your head with lace, so ear-to-ear and temple width are key here. The goal is a natural hairline blend, not lace that floats or cuts into your skin. If you're shopping for lace fronts, here’s a helpful how-to guide for installing lace front wigs.
Full Lace and HD Lace Wigs
With full lace wigs, you want balanced, even coverage all around. So all six measurements become more important. HD lace wigs are even more delicate. A good fit helps them lay flatter and blend better. For more tips on choosing lace options, check out our HD Lace Wig Collection.
Wig Density
This one doesn’t affect your size directly, but it can change how the wig feels. High-density wigs may feel heavier or tighter, especially near the crown or nape. If you’re between sizes, keep this in mind when choosing styles. Here's a full breakdown on wig density and how to choose the right one.
Quick Troubleshooting: Fit Doesn’t Feel Right?
Even with the best measurements, sometimes your wig just doesn’t feel right. Here’s what you can do:
- Wig too tight? Loosen the straps or try wearing without a cap underneath.
- Wig too loose? Add a wig grip or tighten internal bands if your wig has them.
- Lace lifting at the front? You might need a longer ear-to-ear fit or a bit of holding spray.
- Cap riding up at the back? Check your nape measurement or switch to a longer cap.
If you are still unsure, many brands offer beginner-friendly options with more room to adjust. Try something like the closure wigs. They’re easy to size and don’t rely on glue.
How to Measure Your Head for a Wig FAQs
Why is it important to measure your head for a wig?
Measuring your head for a wig ensures a secure, comfortable fit and prevents slipping or tightness. Accurate measurements help you choose the correct cap size, improving both appearance and wearability.
What happens if I don’t measure at all?
If you don’t measure your head, the wig may be too tight or too loose, causing discomfort or slippage. Poor fit can lead to an unnatural look and shorten the wig's lifespan due to strain on the cap.
How do I choose the right cap size after I measure?
Choose the right wig cap size by comparing your measurements to the brand’s size chart. Most brands offer small, medium, and large sizes based on head circumference, ear-to-ear, and front-to-nape measurements.
Mistakes to avoid when measuring head for wigs?
Avoid common mistakes like using a rigid ruler, measuring over bulky hair, or pulling the tape too tight. Use a flexible measuring tape and flatten your hair for accuracy. Double-check measurements to prevent size errors.
Find Best Fitting Wigs at KesWigs
Measuring your head might not be the most exciting part of getting a wig, but it’s one of the most important. A wig that fits well feels better, stays in place, and looks way more natural. No slipping, no squeezing, and no awkward lace gaps.
Once you’ve got your six numbers down, you’ll be surprised how much easier it is to shop. You’ll know exactly what works for your head, which means fewer returns and more good hair days.
And when you're ready to try something new, we at KesWigs have you covered.
Start with closure wigs for something easy to wear, or check out the 13x6 lace frontal wigs if you want more room to part and play. For no-fuss installs, the glueless wig collection is full of options that skip the glue but still stay secure. And if you’re all about that flawless finish, HD lace wigs blend right into your skin like magic.
