By Jeff Waite on Nov 11, 2022 2:30:00 PM
If you’re a first-time custom wig buyer, you might be worried about getting the measurements right without trying a hair system first. Worry not! We’ve devised a set of easy-to-follow instructions to guide you in taking your head measurements, allowing you to take control over the custom ordering process from the comfort of your home.
Why Should I Measure My Scalp?
A custom wig starts with accurate scalp measurements. This is crucial to personalization to ensure the hairpiece will fit your head perfectly. These measurements will be used to construct a base corresponding to your head contour and the frontal recession to create the perfect age-appropriate hairline. Don’t worry; you’ll only have to do this once, as we’ll save your measurements for next time!
How Should I Measure My Scalp?
There are two main types of hair systems for men and women: top-of-head and full-head wigs.
As the name implies, top-of-head hair systems, also known as toupees, are location-specific for those who suffer from hair loss on the crown of the head and offer a minimal, less intrusive option to augment hair volume. These hair systems are usually oval or round shaped and typically range in size from 4” x 6” to 8” x 10”. Full-head wigs are a comprehensive option, providing full coverage from the front of your head to the nape of your neck.
We’ll talk you through measuring both. But first, here’s what you’ll need:
- Measuring tape
- Pencil and pad to take note of the measurements.
- A mirror to check you have got the tape in the correct position.
- Bonus: a friend/family member to help you!
Measuring for a Full-Head Wig
Note: We recommend taking each of these measurements three times to ensure an accurate reading has been taken.
- Head Circumference
Start by measuring the distance around your head, taking the measuring tape, and placing the end of the tape in the center of the front hairline. Bring the tape down behind the top of your ear to the nape of your neck and back around the other side until you meet the center of the front hairline where you started. Make sure the tape is kept flat against your head throughout.
- Front to Back
Place the end of the tape at the center of the front hairline and take it back in a straight line down the middle of your head to the nape of your neck. Again, the tape must be kept flat against your scalp.
- Ear to Ear Across Forehead
Place the end of the tape below your temple, just in front of your ear, where your hairline begins. Follow your front hairline with the tape along your forehead to the same spot on the opposite side.
- Temple to Temple Over Top of Head
Place the end of the tape below your temple, just in front of your ear, where your hairline (or sideburn) begins. This time, rather than follow your front hairline, bring the tape over the top of your head and down to the same spot on the opposite side.
- Ear to Ear Over Top of Head
Place the end of the tape at the hairline edge at the top of one ear and take it directly across the top of your head to the hairline edge at the top of the opposite ear.
- Temple to Temple Across Back of Head
Place the end of the tape at the front edge of your hairline by your temple. Bring the tape around the back of your head, just above the occipital bone, and around the opposite front edge of the hairline.
- Width of Nape
Place the tape at the lowest point of your hairline at the nape of your neck. Bring the tape round to the other side, measuring the width of your hairline across the nape of the neck.
Measuring for a Top-of-Head Hair System
Note I: If you suffer from extreme male pattern baldness (stages VI and VII on the Norwood Hamilton Scale) and no longer have a front hairline, start from step one. If you are measuring for a bald patch in the center of your head (stages III to V), start from step 2 and measure from the front of your bald patch instead of the hairline mark.
Note II: We recommend taking each of these measurements three times to ensure an accurate reading has been taken.
- Find and Mark your Hairline
First things first, you’ll need to mark your front hairline. The best way to do this is by placing four fingers above your eyebrows. Mark the point above your topmost finger with a marker. That is where your hairline starts.
- Measure Front to Back
Place the end of your measuring tape at the mark referencing your hairline and take it back in a straight line to the point where the hair at the back of your head starts.
- Measure Side to Side
Now measure horizontally across your head, from side to side, between the parts where your hair is thickest. Take the longest possible measurement (the widest section of your bald patch). It’s better for the hair system to be too big than too small, as it can always be cut down to size.
What if I don’t like it or it doesn’t fit properly? Can I return it?
Your happiness and satisfaction are our priority. That’s why our hair replacement systems have an unconditional 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not 100% satisfied with your hairpiece and want to return the product, we offer to either rebuild or repair the hair system or refund 50% of the purchase price.
IMPORTANT: The hair system must be returned to us in its original condition within 15 days of receipt. We cannot offer a refund if the hair has been combed, cut, or washed or 15 days have passed.
For this reason, we always recommend that you take a close look at your hair replacement system as soon as you receive it to ensure it is exactly as you expected.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We provide a 24-hour support system to answer any questions you may have, even after you’ve received and started using your hair units. You can also check out our FAQs and resources section, where you can access our buyer’s guides and blogs with plenty of hot tips and valuable information.