Choosing the right wig size is key to getting a comfortable and natural look, especially for those who need wigs for hair loss or love wearing women’s human hair wigs. Many people buy human hair wigs but find them too loose or tight because they skip the head measurement step. Measuring your head is easy and only takes a few minutes. This step-by-step guide will show you how to do it correctly, so your wig fits perfectly and looks just like your own hair.
Getting Ready
Before you start, make sure your hair is as flat as possible. If you have long hair, braid it or pin it down. Use a soft, flexible measuring tape for the most accurate results.
1. Circumference
This is the most critical measurement. It determines the actual size of the wig and how secure it will feel.
- How to do it: Start the tape at your front hairline, wrap it around behind one ear, down to the nape of your neck, back up behind the other ear, and meet again at the front.
2. Front to Back
This ensures the cap covers your head from front to back without slipping.
- How to measure: Measure from your front hairline, over the crown of your head, down to the base of your neck (the nape).
3. Side to Side Across Forehead
This helps determine how the front of the wig will sit along your temples.
- How to measure: Place the tape at your temple and run it across the front of your hairline to the other temple.
4. Side to Side Over Top
This measures the depth of the cap from ear to ear.
- How to measure: Place the tape where your ear attaches to your head, and run it directly over the top of your head to the same point on the other side.
5. Nape of Neck
This measures the width of your hairline at the very back of your head.
- How to measure: Place the tape across the base of your neck at the hairline.
Choosing the Right Size
Most human hair wigs are stretchy and come with adjustable straps at the nape to help you get the right fit. Compare your circumference to these common sizes:
| CAP SIZE | CIRCUMFERENCE |
| XS – Extra Petite | 20.25″ – 20.75″ |
| S – Petite | 21″-21.5″ |
| S/M – Petite/Medium | 21.25″-21.75″ |
| M – Medium | 22″-22.5″ |
| M/L – Medium/Large | 22.5″-22.75″ |
| L – Large | 23″-23.5″ |
If you are between sizes:
- Size Up: If you have long natural hair that needs to be tucked into the cap.
- Size Down: If you have very little or no natural hair, you can size down, as the stretchy cap should fit fine.
Final Thoughts
Once you have your measurements, always double-check them before ordering. A tiny measuring error can lead to discomfort or an unnatural look. Remember that different wig brands may have slight variations in sizing, so always refer to each brand’s specific size chart.
For first-time buyers, ordering a wig with adjustable straps is highly recommended; this gives you flexibility and peace of mind. A perfectly fitted wig not only feels secure but also looks more natural because it stays in place without shifting. Taking these few extra minutes to measure properly will save you from returns, frustration, and disappointment, ensuring your wig becomes a trusted part of your daily life.
