Let's be real: measuring your head for a wig sounds about as fun as watching paint dry. But if you want a lace front wig that looks like it grew out of your scalp (and doesn't slide off when you're dancing in the mirror), you've got to do it. The good news? It takes ten minutes, max. And once you have your numbers, you can order any wig with confidence. So grab a soft measuring tape (or a string and a ruler, if you're truly lazy), and let's get this over with.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
A lace front wig is designed to sit along your natural hairline. If your measurements are off, the wig might be too tight (hello, headache) or too loose (hello, embarrassing slip). Worse, the lace might not blend seamlessly. Taking a few minutes to measure properly means your wig will stay put and look flawless — even if you're just wearing it to run errands.
What You'll Need
- A soft fabric measuring tape (the kind tailors use) – or a piece of string and a ruler if you’re improvising
- A mirror (or a friend with steady hands)
- A hair clip or ponytail holder to keep your hair out of the way
- A pen and paper to write down your numbers
Step 1: Measure Your Head Circumference
This is the most important measurement. Place the tape at your hairline (center of your forehead) and wrap it around your head just above your ears and at the nape of your neck. Make sure it's snug but not tight — you should be able to slide one finger underneath. Write that number down.
Step 2: Measure Front to Nape
Start the tape at your hairline in the front and pull it over the top of your head, down to the nape of your neck (where your skull meets your spine). This measures the length of your head from front to back. Keep the tape centered; if you go crooked, your wig might sit off-kilter.
Step 3: Measure Ear to Ear Across Forehead
Place the tape at the top of one ear, then bring it across your forehead just above your eyebrows to the top of your other ear. This gives the width across the front of your head — crucial for lace front fit.
Step 4: Measure Ear to Ear Over Top
Start at the top of one ear again, but this time go over the crown of your head to the top of your other ear. This measurement ensures the wig cap has enough room to cover your head comfortably.
Step 5: Measure Temple to Temple Around the Back
Measure from your temple (the bony spot near your eye) around the back of your head to the other temple. This helps shape the back of the wig cap so it doesn't gap.
Step 6: Check Your Nape to Nape
Finally, measure from the nape of your neck on one side, around the back of your head, to the nape on the other side. This is a bonus measurement that some wig makers use to ensure a snug fit at the back.
Putting It All Together
Once you have your six numbers, compare them to the wig size chart on the product page. Most lace front wigs come in small, medium, or large. If you're between sizes, go with the larger size — you can always tighten the straps inside the cap. And remember: your measurements can change slightly if you gain or lose weight or if your hair is thicker than usual. It's a good idea to measure every six months if you're a frequent wig buyer.
Pro Tips for Lace Front Wigs
- Always measure with your hair flat, not piled on top of your head.
- If you have a lot of hair, braid it down or wear a wig cap before measuring.
- Don't pull the tape too tight; wigs need a little breathing room.
- Write down the date of your measurements so you know when to redo them.
- If you still feel lost, a lot of wig shops offer free measuring — but honestly, doing it yourself is faster.
And that's it! You've just saved yourself from a world of wig frustration. Now go order that lace front you've been eyeing — and wear it like you own it.