How to style a cosplay wig?

Choosing the Right Wig

Preparing Your Wig

1. Detangle: Gently brush out any tangles using a wide-toothed comb or wig brush, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

2. Wash (if necessary): If your wig is new, washing is usually unnecessary. However, for used or styled wigs, a gentle wash can help restore the fibers. Use cool water and a small amount of mild shampoo, then rinse thoroughly and air dry on a wig stand.

3. Heat Protection: If you plan to use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray designed for synthetic fibers to minimize damage.

Basic Styling Techniques

Cutting and Trimming

1. Start with small, careful cuts and gradually work your way to the desired length.
2. Use sharp, clean scissors designed for cutting hair or wigs.
3. Cut at an angle to create a more natural look and avoid blunt edges.
4. For layering, section the wig and cut at different lengths, blending as you go.

Adding Volume

1. Gently backcomb (tease) sections of the wig to create volume at the roots.
2. Use a rattail comb for precise teasing, focusing on the crown and sides.
3. Smooth the outer layer of hair over the teased sections for a natural appearance.

Creating a Ponytail

1. Secure the wig to a wig head or styrofoam head using T-pins.
2. Gather the hair into the desired ponytail position.
3. Use an elastic band that matches the wig color to secure the ponytail.
4. For a seamless look, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic and secure with bobby pins.

Styling Spikes

1. Section off the hair you want to spike.
2. Apply a strong-hold styling product, such as got2b Glued or a similar spiking glue.
3. Use your fingers or a comb to shape the spikes upward.
4. Set the style with a blow dryer on a cool setting.
5. For extra hold, use hairspray after the spikes are dry.

Creating Curls

1. For heat-resistant wigs:
   1. Use a curling iron or flat iron on a low heat setting (never exceed the wig's heat tolerance).
   2. Wrap sections of hair around the iron and hold for 10-15 seconds.
   3. Release and pin the curl in place to cool.

2. For non-heat-resistant wigs:
   1. Dampen small sections of hair with water or a setting lotion.
   2. Roll the hair onto foam rollers or pin curls.
   3. Allow the wig to dry completely (this may take several hours or overnight).
   4. Gently remove the rollers and style as desired.

Advanced Styling Techniques

Wig Stacking

1. Choose a base wig and one or more wigs for added length or volume.
2. Secure the base wig to a wig head.
3. Cut wefts from the additional wigs and sew them onto the base wig, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
4. Blend the added wefts with the existing hair by trimming and styling.

Creating a Lace Front

1. Purchase a lace front piece or lace square (available from cosplay suppliers like CrazeCosplay.com).
2. Carefully sew the lace piece onto the front of your wig cap.
3. Pluck some of the hairs from the lace to create a more realistic hairline.
4. Trim the excess lace close to the hairline, leaving a small amount for blending.

Coloring and Toning

1. For synthetic wigs, use fabric dyes specifically formulated for synthetic fibers.
2. Follow the dye instructions carefully, as the process differs from dyeing natural hair.
3. For temporary color changes or highlights, use colored hair sprays or chalk designed for wigs.

Maintaining Your Styled Wig

1. Store the wig on a wig stand or in a breathable wig cap when not in use.
2. For complex styles, use T-pins to secure the wig to a styrofoam head during storage.
3. Avoid sleeping or showering while wearing the wig.
4. Touch up the style as needed before each wear, using minimal product to avoid buildup.

Tips from CrazeCosplay.com

1. When brushing your wig, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically designed for wigs to avoid damaging the fibers.
2. If washing is necessary, use cool water and a mild shampoo. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wig, instead gently swishing it in the water.
3. Allow wigs to air dry completely on a wig stand before styling. Never use a blow dryer on high heat, as this can damage synthetic fibers.
4. For curled styles, refresh curls by wrapping sections around your fingers and securing with clips or pins. Leave overnight for best results.
5. When storing long wigs, consider loosely braiding the hair to prevent tangling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Use a small amount of leave-in conditioner or wig detangler spray.
• Run a dryer sheet over the wig to reduce static.

• Work on small sections at a time, using a detangling spray if needed.
• For severe tangles, consider using a wig brush with metal bristles, being gentle to avoid damaging the wig.

• Refresh the style using steam from a handheld garment steamer, being careful not to get the wig too wet.
• Restyle using the techniques mentioned earlier, focusing on problem areas.

• Use bobby pins that match your wig color to secure any gaps.
• Consider adding a few wefts or a lace front piece to create a more natural hairline.

Inspiration and Resources

1. Online Tutorials: Platforms like YouTube offer a wealth of wig styling tutorials for specific characters or general techniques.

2. Cosplay Forums: Join online communities where cosplayers share tips, tricks, and troubleshooting advice.

3. Cosplay Wig Artists: Follow professional wig stylists on social media for inspiration and advanced techniques. Some recommended artists include:
   1. Bakka Cosplay
   2. Wisperia Workshop
   3. Kinpatsu Cosplay

4. Local Workshops: Look for wig styling workshops at cosplay conventions or local craft stores.

Conclusion