How to Measure Your Head Before Buying a Wig & How to Measure Your Wig After Receiving It

Finding the perfect wig starts with the right measurements.
Whether you're buying your first glueless wig or investing in a premium human hair lace wig, knowing your correct size helps ensure a comfortable, natural-looking fit.

In this guide, we’ll show you:

• How to measure your head before buying a wig
• How to measure a wig after receiving it
• How to compare your measurements with standard wig sizes
• Tips to achieve the perfect fit every time

Why Wig Measurements Matter

Choosing the correct wig size can help:

• Prevent headaches and tight tension
• Keep your wig secure throughout the day
• Create a more natural hairline
• Protect your edges and natural hair
• Improve overall comfort and confidence

A properly fitted wig should feel snug — not tight.

Part 1: How to Measure Your Head Before Buying a Wig

What You Need

Before measuring, prepare:

• A soft measuring tape
• Flat natural hair or braided hair
• A mirror
• Pen or phone notes to record measurements

Pro Tip:

For the most accurate results, braid or flatten your hair the same way you would wear it under your wig.

Step-by-Step Head Measurement Guide

1. Circumference (Most Important)

Measure around your entire head.

Start at:

• Your front hairline
• Go behind your ears
• Around the nape
• Back to the starting point

This measurement determines your main wig cap size.

Average Sizes:

2. Front to Nape

Measure from:

• The center of your front hairline
• Straight back to the nape of your neck

This helps determine wig depth and overall fit.

3. Ear to Ear

Measure from one ear to the other across the top of your head.

This is especially important for lace front wigs and glueless wigs.

4. Temple to Temple

Measure around the back of your head from temple to temple.

This ensures your wig lays naturally and securely.

Standard Wig Cap Size Chart

Note:

Most customers fit comfortably into a Medium cap size.

Part 2: How to Measure Your Wig After Receiving It

Once your wig arrives, measuring it helps verify the cap size and hair length.

This is especially useful for:

• Custom wigs
• Lace front wigs
• HD lace wigs
• Curly or textured wigs

How to Measure Wig Cap Size

1. Measure Wig Circumference

Place the wig on a mannequin head or flat surface.

Use a measuring tape to measure:

• Around the wig cap
• Starting at the front hairline
• Around the nape
• Back to the front

Compare the measurement to your own head size.

2. Measure Front to Nape

Measure from:

• The front lace or hairline
• Straight to the back nape area

This helps confirm cap depth.

3. Measure Ear Tabs

Measure from one ear tab to the other across the lace front area.

This determines how well the wig aligns with your natural hairline.

How to Measure Wig Hair Length

Different textures may appear shorter when curly or wavy.

Always measure wigs while stretched straight.

Straight Wig Length

Measure from:

• The top crown area
• Down to the ends of the hair

Curly & Wavy Wig Length

Gently stretch the hair straight before measuring.

This gives the true wig length.

Wig Length Guide

Common Wig Sizing Mistakes

Measuring Over Bulky Hair

Always flatten or braid your hair first.

Pulling the Tape Too Tight

The tape should feel snug but comfortable.

Ignoring Wig Adjustability

Most wigs include:

• Adjustable straps
• Elastic bands
• Combs

These help customize the fit.

What If You’re Between Sizes?

If your measurements fall between two sizes:

Choose the larger cap size.

A slightly larger wig can usually be adjusted tighter, while a smaller wig may feel uncomfortable.

Beginner-Friendly Wig Fit Tips

If you're new to wigs:

Choose:

• Glueless wigs
• Adjustable cap wigs
• Wear & Go wigs
• Elastic band wigs

These are easier to install and more forgiving in sizing.

Final Thoughts

Taking a few minutes to measure your head before buying a wig can completely change your wig-wearing experience.

The perfect wig should:

• Feel comfortable
• Stay secure
• Look natural
• Boost your confidence

And once your wig arrives, measuring the cap and hair length helps ensure you received exactly what you ordered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common wig cap size?

Medium is the most common wig cap size.

Can I wear a wig if I have thick hair?

Yes. Simply braid or flatten your hair before installing the wig.

Are glueless wigs adjustable?

Yes. Most glueless wigs include adjustable straps and elastic bands.

Why does my curly wig look shorter?

Curly textures shrink naturally. Stretch the hair when measuring length.