No matter where you are in your cosplay history, a wig is usually the key element to make or break a costume. Your wig will be the finishing touch on your Aquaman costume or bring Deadpool’s sarcasm to life. While styling a cosplay wig is more than just putting it on, you do need to care for and mold the hairpiece so that it both fits your character as well. If you want an article for practical styling tips on your cosplay wigs then read more.
1. Choose Your Character’s Wig Wisely!
Choosing the Right Base Wig for Your Character-If you want to style great wigs, it all starts with selecting a quality base wig. Consider the following:
- Color and length: Try to find a wig that looks similar to your characters hair color/length so you don’t have much work cutting/editing the wig down.
- Heat Resistance: If you know that you want to use hot tools on your synthetic wig, be sure and get a heat-safe one.
- Fiber quality: Higher-quality synthetic fibers will hold styles better and not appear as shiny on camera.
Like, for instance that people who like to dress up as Aquaman generally sport long tousled sun-streaked hair. To achieve the masculine good looks of Jason Momoa, this wig features a natural wave and heat friendly fibers. Conversely, a normal version of Deadpool cosplay doesn’t even need an actual wig unless you are mimicking unmasked Wade Wilson in which case it has to be like Chris Evan’s kind where the style is trim and human-like…
Read More: Best Cosplay Costumes for Summer
2. Use the Right Tools
Here are the items you will need to style your cosplay wig:
- Wig stand or mannequin head
- A wide tooth comb (never a brush)
- Hair clamps and dividers
- Ladies Wigs Heat-Styling Tools (Heat-Resistant Only!
- Scissors for fabric, or cutting shears
- Spray for treatment of synthetic hair or styling gel
- T-pins – to pin the wig in place
The right tools will help you maintain control and manipulate the wig without damaging its fibers.
3. STEP 1: WASH AND CLARIFY THE UNIT BEFORE STYLING
Your recently purchased wig even requires a cleaning. Will take out extra glide and make hair more manageable.
How to wash a cosplay wig:
- Using a bowl, add cold wig-safe shampoo water.
- Swish the wig gently in the water, but do not rub or twist it.
- Wash off completely, and dab dry with a towel.
- Air dry the wig on a stand.
After the diapers dry, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your microfiber (start at ends and work towards roots).
4. Cut / DIY (Do it Yourself) Ready for Accuracy
Wigs Almost Always Have to be Styled Before They Become Character Perfect You may need to:
- Trim bangs or layers
- Modify with Heat or Water
- Tease and Hairspray to Create Volume or Texture
Make sure to also add more waves and curls with a curling iron if you are dressing up as Aquaman so that it looks like natural beach hair. You could trim the sides and spike the top for a Deadpool cosplay without his mask so that it would look messy like him.
Helpful hint: cut always sparingly once fibers are gone, they’re gone temmin A
5. Advanced Wig Cutting and Styling
Using Styling Tools for Heat-Resistant Wigs
- Hot curlers: To set or tighten curls.
- Curling iron/flat iron: for sleek styles.
- Diffuser Attachment for Hairdryer: Add volume,
- Hot water method: Give shape with steam or hot water and allow to cool in that position
Set all of this with wig hairspray, or styling gel and let dry before wearing.
6. Add Accessories or Hairpieces
If you want to add some accessories, wearing them will depend upon your cosplay:
- Aquaman braids / hair wraps
- Head pieces or Face masks (Deadpool)
Alternatively, you can sew in wefts to increase volume or clip in some extensions for added thickness if your hair has more [hair] than the wig provides.
Read More: Classic vs. Trending: A Collection of Timeless Cosplay Characters
7. Storage and Maintenance Tips
Clean and store your wig properly after the event is done:
- Comb out gently after each use
- Keep in wig cap or on a mannequin stand
- Avoid from Sunshine and Dust
Taking care of your cosplay wigs is the best way to ensure they stay intact and that you can have them on hand for all next cosplays/events/shootings.
Final Thoughts
Indeed, cosplay wigs are not born overnight, but only after a dozen of thought through selection along with careful styling and maintenance. Whether you are making an elaborate Aquaman cosplay with majestic, wavy hair or tapping into Deadpool’s sassy wit via pooly rocking your best head wear wig (more on this option later). Armed with these tips for how to style your cosplay, you’ll be catching eyes no matter where the next convention or photoshoot might take place.
FAQs
- Will I be able to style my cosplay wig with heat tools?
Well yes, but that is assuming your cosplay wig has been constructed out of either human hair or heat-resistant synthetic fibers. Always look on the label to see if you can use a straightener and curling irons. Heat-styling can help characters with long hair and natural textures like Aquaman.
- Deadpool cosplay questions — Wig styling?
Of course, most Deadpool cosplay involves a full mask and you won’t need one. But ultimately if you’re aiming for a mask-less appearance (Wade Wilson), go with the well-coiffed waxed short layers wig. Texture it with pomade or gelle for a messier more rugged glance.
- What are the top products you use for wig styling?
Synthetic Wig Hairspray, Gel & Detangler For Safe Use On Synthetic Fiber. Stay away from your normal hair products, as they may harm the synthetic fibers. You will also need a wide-toothed comb, T-pins to style.
- How Can I prevent my cosplay wig from slipping while Cosplaying at conventions or during photoshoots?
Wear a wig cap and must have the non-slip band to secure your wigs with hairpins/clips. For heavier or longer wigs (such as for Aquaman cosplay) you might need to use some extra combs or adhesives to hold them in place.
- How to Store your Cosplay Wig Post Application?
Softly comb the wig, put into a bobbin net and bag with care on circles. Store in a cool place out of sun and dust to stop tangling, colors fading.