How To Measure Head For A Wig: A Step-By-Step Guide

Raise your hand if your answer is yes: Have you ever accidentally bought a wig just to find out that it’s too loose, or too tight on your head? Or, you have been planning to purchase a wig you have been eyeing – but too afraid that it won’t fit? If you have your hand raised – you are facing one of the most popular problems for wig buyers – ill-fitted wigs. 

However, you can still avoid all the unnecessary issues and save your wallet from buying the wrong size – simply by learning how to measure head for a wig. And, as your head size rarely changes, you can save these measurements and reuse them every time you shop for a new wig.

1. How To Measure Head for A Wig – Step-by-step Guide

The steps are foolproof and simple – and it only requires you to have a tape measure in hand. You can ask for help from a friend, or do it by yourself – either way fine.

• Measure Head Circumference: The most important measurement that should not be skipped – ever, as this measurement tells a lot about your base size. You start by placing the tape measure at the top of your forehead, follow your natural hair line and wrapping the tape around your entire head. 
• Measure Front to Nape: Take your tape measure and place it at the middle of your forehead and stretch the tape downward to reach your nape – at the base of your neck.
• Measure The Temple: Place the tape at your temple – the flat area next to your eyes. Wrap it around the back of your head and stretch it to the other temple. This measurement makes sure that the wig can sit securely against your scalp without slipping. 
• Measure Ear to Ear (Across Forehead): Place the tape at the hairline right above your one ear and run it across your forehead to reach the other ear. This measurement is particularly important if you are deciding between frontal vs closure wigs, as it determines how wide your lace needs to be.
• Measure Ear to Ear (Over Top): Similarly, place the tape above your one ear. This time, run it over the top of your head and stretch it to reach the other ears.

After measuring and recording your measurements – now it’s time to apply these into finding a perfect size match for your head. Most wigs tend to fall into a general sizing system – with the measurements in hand, you can find your best match in no time.

And, if you find your measurements between sizes – the best thing to do is to go for the option that is one size bigger than what you have. After all, wig caps are elastic, and often come with multiple adjustable features like stretching bands, combs, hair clips,… to give you more flexibility and wearing comfort. 

2. Measuring Tips for Different Types of Wigs 

Different types of wigs come with different constructions – therefore, would have different priorities and interpretations for the measurements. After all, not every component of the wig is elastic and stretchable – especially the fragile lace. Hence, make sure to be extra careful and flexible for varying wig types:

• Lace Front wigs – the most popular wig type: Their lace will cover the top area of your head, as well as the front hair line → therefore, your ear-to-ear, over top measurement should be paid more attention to – beside the standard circumference. 
• Full Lace & 360 Lace wigs: These wig types feature a wide lace area that goes around your entire head – making the wig cap less and less versatile. Therefore, every single measurement counts when it comes to these wigs. If you are still weighing your options for full-coverage units, our comparison of 360 lace wig vs full lace wig will help you understand their structural differences.
• Glueless & Ready-to-wear wigs: These wig types are often easier when it comes to measurements thanks to how fitting and elastic their wig caps are. However, you still need to pay attention to the head circumference and over top ear-to-ear – to avoid exposing your hair line and discomfort. For the ultimate fuss-free experience, highly elastic options like headband wigs are incredibly forgiving and require minimal measuring.

3. FAQs about How To Measure Head for A Wig

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to measure head for a wig:

3.1. How should I prep my natural hair before taking measurements?

You should prepare your hair exactly how you plan to wear it under your wig. If you usually braid your hair down into cornrows or wear a sleek low bun, do that first. Then, put on your wig cap and take your measurements over it. Measuring with loose or fluffy hair will result in a wig that is too big.

3.2. What if my measurements fall between two different sizes?

If you are caught between sizes, it is almost always best to size up. A wig that is slightly too large can be easily tightened using the adjustable straps or an elastic wig band. A wig that is too small will be uncomfortable, cause tension headaches, and slowly slide backward off your hairline.

3.3. I don’t have a cloth measuring tape. Can I use a metal tape measure?

It is highly recommended to avoid metal tape measures. They are rigid and will not accurately hug the curves of your head, leading to incorrect numbers. If you don’t have a flexible cloth tape, you can use a piece of string to wrap around your head, mark the length, and then measure the string against a flat ruler.

3.4. What if my circumference is “Average,” but my front-to-nape measurement is “Petite”?

Always prioritize your circumference measurement. The circumference acts as the anchor for your wig, keeping it securely on your head. If the front-to-nape is a little short or long, it is usually less noticeable and more forgiving than a circumference that doesn’t fit correctly.

3.5. Do I need to re-measure my head every time I buy a new wig?

No! Since adult head sizes rarely change, you can save your measurements and reuse them multiple times. The only time you should re-measure is if there has been a drastic change in the volume of your natural hair (e.g., doing a “big chop” or growing out long, thick locs).

4. Conclusion: Flawless Fit, Every Single Time

Knowing exactly how to measure head for a wig is the ultimate secret to achieving a comfortable, secure, and natural-looking installation. It is a simple, one-time process that completely eliminates the guesswork and frustration from your future purchases. Whether you are investing in a daily-wear glueless unit or a high-end full lace wig, applying these precise measurements guarantees a perfect fit.