How to Pin Curl Hair for Wigs?

Pin curling hair for wigs allows you to add volume, waves, or curls without using heat on the wig itself. Here's a general guide, keeping in mind the type of wig fiber (synthetic or human hair) will affect the outcome:

General Pin Curling Method for Wigs:

1. Prepare the Wig: Ensure the wig is clean and dry. Gently brush out any tangles.

2. Section the Hair: Divide the wig hair into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide, depending on the desired curl size. Smaller sections create tighter curls.

3. Apply Setting Product (Optional): For human hair wigs, you can use a mousse or setting lotion to help the curls hold. For synthetic wigs, use a wig-specific styling product designed for heatless styling. Avoid using products designed for human hair on synthetic wigs unless specifically formulated for them.

4. Create the Curl:

   • Wrap a section of hair around your finger (or a curling rod alternative) from the ends toward the root. The direction you wrap determines the curl direction. Curling away from the wefts can help with volume.
   • Maintain even tension as you wrap.

5. Secure the Curl:

   • Carefully slide the curl off your finger, maintaining its shape.
   • Use a pin curl clip (or bobby pins) to secure the curl flat against the wig cap. Make sure the clip doesn't create dents by positioning it carefully.

6. Repeat: Continue creating pin curls throughout the entire wig, section by section.

7. Drying Time:

   • Human Hair Wigs: Allow the hair to air dry completely, or use a hooded dryer on a low heat setting. This can take several hours or overnight.
   • Synthetic Wigs: Because synthetic hair doesn't absorb water like human hair, it won't "set" in the same way with just water and air drying. The pin curls primarily serve to shape the hair for a style that's sort of set. If you want the style to remain, you will need to use the steam method below.

8. Setting with Steam (Synthetic Wigs - Optional, but Recommended): This is crucial for truly setting the style on synthetic wigs.

   • Use a steamer or carefully hold the pinned wig over a pot of boiling water (be VERY cautious to avoid burns).
   • Apply steam to the pin curls for a few seconds per section. The heat from the steam will soften the synthetic fibers, allowing them to mold into the curl shape. Do not overheat.
   • Let the wig cool completely with the pins still in place.

9. Remove the Pins: Once the wig is completely dry and cool (especially important after steaming), carefully remove the pin curl clips.

10. Style: Gently separate the curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Style as desired. You can use wig-specific styling products to hold the style.

Tips and Considerations:

• Curl Size: Experiment with different section sizes to achieve various curl sizes and textures.
• Curl Direction: Vary the direction of the curls for a more natural look.
• Wig Cap: Make sure the wig cap is secure while pin curling. Use a wig stand if possible.
• Fiber Type: Always consider the fiber type (human hair, synthetic, or blend) when choosing products and techniques. What works for human hair will not work on synthetic hair without potentially ruining the synthetic fibers.
• Heat: Be extremely cautious with heat on synthetic wigs. Excessive heat can melt or damage the fibers. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first. Steam is typically the safest heat-styling option for synthetic wigs.
• Practice: Pin curling can take some practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect.