How to Fix a Synthetic Wig: 5 Quick Fix Tips

Learn how to quick fix and tips to ensure that your synthetic wig is ready for your next convention or adventure.

It’s the night before the con. You have your costume all ready, but the wig that worked for your previous fitting comes out of the bag with a flat crown and frizzy ends. Before you restyle it entirely, put it on with your costume. Figure out what’s getting in the way when you’re moving around and what affects the appearance of the character. Those are the problems you should solve tonight.

TL;DR: To fix a synthetic wig, check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Detangle small sections from the ends up with a wide-tooth comb. Use heat only if the manufacturer allows it. Cover exposed wefts with nearby fibers, take the wig off before trimming bangs, and adjust the cap straps if the wig slips.

Before you start: Check your wig’s care instructions

Synthetic cosplay wigs don’t all respond the same way to heat or styling products. Before you start, check the care label, product listing or manufacturer’s instructions for your specific wig.

Do not use the flat iron, steamer or heated blow dryer if you are unsure whether your wig is heat safe. Your tool’s lowest temperature may not be safe for unfamiliar fibers. Never use a curling iron or straightener on a wig while you’re wearing it, and keep heat tools away from the lace and cap.

Heat-safe wigs are still limited. Don’t rely on another wig’s recommended heat settings for yours. Find a well-lit space to lay out your wig and work on it. Keep a wide-tooth comb, sectioning clips and wig-approved products within reach.

1. How to detangle a synthetic wig

Long hair tends to tangle at the nape of the neck or anywhere it touches your outfit. Attempting to remove all the knots from the entire wig length will only make the tangles worse.

Remove tangles from your synthetic wig in small sections:

1. Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head.
2. Clip the rest of the wig aside and select a small section of hair.
3. Separate the biggest knots with your fingers.
4. Grip the hair above the knot to avoid pulling on the cap.
5. Start combing from the ends and work your way up.
6. If the comb gets caught, stop combing and separate the knot with your fingers instead.

Use detangling spray compatible with your wig type and follow the instructions on the product label. For curly wigs, detangle each curl individually rather than combing out all the curls. Take a break if needed. Yanking on a knot won’t untangle it any faster.

2. How to fix frizz on a synthetic wig

Flat and frizzy hair require different solutions.

If the crown is flat, put the wig on a stand and gently arrange the fibers back into shape. For a no-heat solution, tuck a small, dry towel inside the cap, directly under the flattened crown. Make sure you’re using just enough towel to support the crown, but not so much as to stretch the cap. If there are frizzy ends, detangle them first. Only consider heat if your wig’s care instructions allow it.

If you know your wig can withstand heat: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for styling and care. They will indicate what products you can use, what temperature is acceptable, and whether you should work on dry or damp hair. Do a test on a small area and let it cool before evaluating it.

If you can’t confirm your wig is heat resistant, skip heated tools, steam and hot water to prevent damage to it. Try gently repositioning frizzy sections so they don’t interrupt the shape of the style. You can tackle a more extended repair after the con when you have more time.

3. Hide visible wefts by shifting the hair on the synthetic wig

Wefts are rows of hair that are sewn to the wig cap. You’ll notice wefts if you move the hair away from its usual flow, or if you part it between two wefts. Wear the wig and observe the hair from the front, left side, right side, and back. Ask a friend to take a photo of the crown, or use a phone or camera to film yourself.

Try a few different methods of arranging the hair:

• Shift the part a bit.
• Comb or brush hair from the sides over the weft.
• Remove a pin or clip holding a ponytail or bun that separates two wefts.
• Use pins to keep the new arrangement of hair in place.

Toss your head a little to see if the hair stays put. A weft that is hidden when you look at the front of the wig might be visible when you turn your head.

If you plan to sew a weft to the wig, leave yourself enough time to install and evaluate the weft. This is probably too close to the con to do that, so think of another solution.

4. Trim synthetic wig bangs a little at a time

Before cutting bangs, wear the wig as you would normally. Depending on how the wig is adjusted, it will sit differently on your head and change the appearance of the bangs.

If you need to cut bangs:

1. Determine how much length to trim while wearing the wig. Remove the wig and place it on a wig stand so you can cut it.
2. Secure hair surrounding the bangs with clips.
3. Use sharp haircutting scissors.
4. Trim a small amount of hair at a time, making the first cut longer than the final cut.
5. Try the wig on to check the length, then take it off again before cutting. For a softer edge, make small vertical snips into the ends. Check where styled bangs fall before deciding whether to trim more.

If you’re not confident you can nail the character’s fringe, trim enough so it doesn’t obstruct your vision and then stop. You can tweak it later.

5. How to keep a synthetic wig from slipping

If your wig shifts when you turn your head, make sure you check the fit before adding more pins. Tame your hair beneath the wig cap to be as smooth as possible. If you have long hair, create flat braids rather than one big bun. Adjust the wig straps incrementally, checking the fit between each adjustment.

A wig grip band could work, provided it works with your wig cap and hairstyle. If so, pin the edge of the wig into your hair underneath the wig. Be careful not to press the pinheads against your skin, and remember to only use T-pins on a wig head.

Do a trial run at home. Walk around, shake your head, bend over, and test any costume collars or hats that may come into contact with your wig.

Remove the wig if it becomes uncomfortable or begins to tug. The wig should stay in place while you’re chatting with fellow cosplayers and walking around the convention center.

Pack a small synthetic wig repair kit

Pack these supplies:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Detangling spray or conditioner suitable for your wig type (in a sealed container)
• Bobby pins matching the color of the wig
• Wig cap
• Small clips and clear elastics
• Wig grip band, if appropriate
• Handheld mirror
• Hair ties

When you’re packing for the convention, keep your repair pouch near the top of your bag. Make sure you check the event rules before packing scissors or aerosols. Let a friend know you need help fixing your wig before they start combing or pinning. Always ask permission before you handle another person’s wig.

If you know someone from a local anime club who’s going to the same con, ask if they’d be up for a quick costume check together before the event.

Find a Group for Your Next Convention

Look for an anime, cosplay, or convention group where you can plan a costume meetup or find friends to walk the show floor with.

Find Convention Clubs

How to store your wig overnight before the convention

Allow the wig to dry once you’re done. Use a wig stand if you have one, or a rigid container to avoid crushing delicate pieces.

Only pack the wig into its carrying case once it’s completely dry. Store it far from hot cars and other sources of heat, and don’t force a perfectly styled bang against the wall of your suitcase.

Conduct one last dress rehearsal prior to going to bed and snap a photo for reference. Ensure you can see through the wig comfortably, that the wig cap lies flat, and that the wig coordinates well with the rest of your costume.

You’re good to go if the wig stays in place as you turn your head, the bangs don’t cover your eyes and the style still looks like your character. Let the loose strands be. Put the comb and a couple of matching pins somewhere that you’ll be able to easily access later without digging through the entire bag. After the con, make time for a quick wig cleanup: detangle the ends and let the wig air-dry before putting it away. It will save you time when you need to wear it again.

For now, the prep is done. Go enjoy the con.