A frontal wig features a large section of sheer lace, typically measuring 13×4 or 13×6 inches, that extends from ear to ear across the hairline. This construction allows for a highly realistic appearance, giving the illusion that the hair is growing directly from the scalp. Installing a frontal wig with glue requires a precise, step-by-step method to ensure the hold is secure, the hairline is undetectable, and the skin remains protected. This guide provides a comprehensive process for achieving a flawless and long-lasting glued installation.
Essential Preparation Steps
Achieving a seamless installation begins with creating a flat, clean base for the adhesive. The natural hair must be secured as flatly as possible to prevent bumps or lumps beneath the wig cap. For longer hair, this is best accomplished by braiding tight cornrows directed straight back from the hairline, while shorter hair can be slicked back with gel and secured.
Once the natural hair is flat, a wig cap is placed over the head, covering all the hair and extending slightly past the natural hairline. The cap should be trimmed away from the hairline, leaving only the area where the lace will be placed exposed.
The final step is to clean the skin along the hairline thoroughly with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol or witch hazel. This removes all traces of natural oils, dirt, and makeup, which is necessary for the adhesive to bond effectively and prevent the lace from lifting prematurely.
Applying Skin Protectant and Adhesive
Before applying any adhesive, a skin protectant or scalp protector should be applied to the clean hairline area. This product creates a barrier between the skin and the glue, which helps to prevent irritation and sensitivity. The protectant also improves the adhesion of the glue, contributing to a stronger and longer-lasting hold.
The lace adhesive is then applied to the skin in thin, even layers, using a small brush or the back of a rat-tail comb. Applying the glue in multiple thin layers, typically two to four, is more effective than using one thick layer, which takes too long to dry and may result in a weak bond. Each layer must be allowed to dry completely clear and become tacky before the next layer is applied. If the lace is placed onto wet, white glue, the adhesive will not cure properly, leading to a poor hold. The adhesive should be applied only to the skin just in front of the natural hairline, avoiding the natural hair or the wig cap.
Laying the Wig and Trimming the Lace
With the final layer of adhesive tacky and transparent, the wig is carefully positioned onto the head. The frontal should be aligned precisely with the natural hairline and centered, using the ear tabs as guides for proper placement. Once the alignment is correct, the lace is gently pressed into the tacky adhesive, starting from the center of the forehead and working outward toward the temples.
Use a fine-tooth comb or the back of a rat-tail comb to press the lace down. Tap the material into the glue rather than dragging it, which prevents wrinkles or bubbles from forming. After the lace is secured, the excess material must be trimmed away. Use small, sharp scissors or an eyebrow razor to cut the lace in a subtle zig-zag or jagged motion, slightly away from the hairline. This non-straight cutting technique helps the edge of the lace blend more seamlessly into the skin, avoiding a harsh, blunt line.
Achieving a Seamless Finish
The final steps focus on “melting” the lace into the skin for a truly undetectable finish. A melting band, which is a stretchy elastic or satin strip, is wrapped tightly around the hairline, applying consistent pressure to the newly glued lace. This pressure helps the lace to fully adhere to the skin and allows the adhesive to set completely without lifting.
The band should be left in place for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. A low-heat blow dryer can be used over the band to accelerate the melting process. After removing the band, any remaining visibility of the lace can be minimized by applying foundation, concealer, or lace tint powder that matches the skin tone directly onto the lace material. This cosmetic step camouflages the lace grid, creating a smooth transition from the wig to the forehead. For a more natural look, small sections of hair can be pulled out and styled as baby hairs along the hairline.