How to Install Lace Frontal Wigs: Step by Step Guide
How to Install Lace Frontal Wigs: Step‑by‑Step Guide
Lace frontal wigs are one of the easiest ways to get a flawless, natural-looking style without committing to a sew‑in or spending hours in the salon. When you install them the right way, your hairline looks melted, your part looks real, and your style can last for days or even weeks. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to install a lace frontal wig at home, plus the must‑have products you can grab from Elise Beauty Supply.
What You Need Before You Start
Before you begin your lace frontal install, make sure you have these essentials:
- A lace frontal wig
- Wig caps that match your skin tone
- Lace glue or holding spray
- Rat‑tail comb for parting and pressing the lace
- Edge control and a small edge brush
- Blow dryer with cool or low heat setting
- Scissors or a small razor to cut the lace
- Silk or satin scarf or melt band to tie down your hairline
Shop lace frontal wigs and wig caps now at Elise Beauty Supply
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Hair
A flat foundation is the key to a natural install. Start on clean, dry hair. If your hair is longer or thick, braid it straight back into cornrows or twist it down so it lays as flat as possible. If your hair is shorter, you can slick it back with gel or a styling cream and secure it with bobby pins. The goal is to reduce bulk so your wig sits smoothly on your head.
Once your hair is flat, put on a wig cap that matches your complexion. Pull it down over your hairline and make sure there are no bumps or rolls. Some people like to use the “bald cap method,” where the cap is glued and trimmed to look like a scalp. If you’re a beginner, you can simply place the cap and move on to the next step.
Grab a Stocking Wig Cap Natural here.
Step 2: Clean and Protect Your Hairline
Before you apply any glue or spray, gently clean your forehead and hairline with rubbing alcohol or a skin‑safe cleanser. This removes oil, sweat, and makeup so your lace glue can really grip. Be careful not to get alcohol on your natural hair, especially your edges.
If your skin is sensitive, apply a skin protectant or a light layer of moisturizer around the hairline and let it dry. This creates a barrier between your skin and the adhesive.
To get the best melt, pair your cleanser with our favorite lace adhesive from Elise Beauty Supply.
Step 3: Adjust and Position the Wig
Now it’s time to try on your lace frontal wig before you commit to glue. Place the wig on your head starting at the back, then pull it forward until the lace lines up with your natural hairline. Adjust the combs and elastic band inside the wig so it feels secure but not too tight.
Look in the mirror and check:
- Is the part where you want it (middle or side)?
- Are the ear tabs sitting in the right place?
- Does the hairline look natural, not too far forward or back?
Take your rat‑tail comb and gently press the lace down to see how it will melt once it’s glued. If everything looks good, lift the lace back off your forehead and clip the hair away from your face so it doesn’t get in the glue.
Browse all human hair weave bundles at Elise Beauty Supply
Step 4: Cut the Lace Carefully
Cutting the lace properly makes a huge difference in how natural your wig looks. Using a small pair of scissors or a razor, start in the middle of the lace and cut toward one ear in small, curved motions. Avoid cutting in a straight line soft, zig‑zag or curved cuts help the lace blend into your skin.
Repeat on the other side until all the excess lace around the front and ear tabs is removed. Take your time; once the lace is gone, you can’t put it back. If your wig has pre‑plucked baby hairs, be careful not to cut them off.
If you’re new to lace frontals, start with a pre‑plucked style like our Human Hair 13x4 Lace Wig.
Step 5: Apply Lace Glue or Holding Spray
With your lace flipped back, apply a thin, even layer of lace glue or holding spray along your hairline, just in front of your natural edges. Let it dry until it turns tacky (almost clear) before adding a second layer if you want a longer hold. Beginners usually do 1–2 layers; more layers give a stronger hold but require more patience and careful removal later.
Tips:
- Keep glue on your skin, not on your natural hair.
- Work in sections (middle first, then sides) so you can control placement.
For a secure all‑day hold, shop our lace adhesives and melting sprays at Elise Beauty Supply
Step 6: Lay the Lace and Melt the Hairline
Once the glue is tacky, gently pull the lace forward and lay it into the adhesive starting from the middle of your forehead. Press the lace down with the back of your rat‑tail comb or your fingers, then move to the sides and repeat. Take your time to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles in the lace.
After the lace is in place, use a blow dryer on cool or low heat while you press the lace into the glue. This helps “melt” the lace into your skin so it looks like a real scalp. When everything feels secure, tie a satin or elastic melt band around your hairline and leave it on for 10–20 minutes to set.
Use our satin melt band or satin scarf to set your install
Step 7: Style and Finish Your Look
After your lace has set, remove the scarf and check the hairline. If you see any visible glue residue, gently clean it with a cotton swab and a bit of alcohol. Then you can:
- Create baby hairs using a small edge brush and edge control
- Define your part with a rat‑tail comb and a bit of concealer or foundation on the lace
- Curl, straighten, or define the curls of your wig depending on the texture
Finish with a light mousse or styling spray to tame flyaways and give your style a polished look. For everyday wear, sleep in a satin bonnet or scarf to protect your install and keep it looking fresh longer. Learn how to expand the life of your wig.