Yes, you can adjust the size of a straight glueless wig if it’s slightly too big or too small—though the adjustability range depends on the wig’s design features (like straps, combs, or cap material) and whether the fit issue is minor. Below’s a detailed breakdown of how to fix both “too big” and “too small” scenarios, along with key tips to avoid damaging the wig:
1. If the Straight Glueless Wig Is Too Big
Most glueless wigs are designed with built - in features to shrink the fit slightly, making this the easier adjustment to fix. Focus on these methods:
a. Tighten the Adjustable Nape Straps
Nearly all glueless wigs have elastic straps at the nape (back of the neck)—this is the primary tool for sizing down.
Locate the straps: They’re usually attached to the wig cap with plastic hooks or Velcro.
Adjust the fit: For hook - style straps, move the hooks to a tighter setting (e.g., if the hooks are on the 3rd loop, shift them to the 2nd or 1st loop to shorten the strap). For Velcro straps, simply pull the Velcro tighter and press it into place.
Test the fit: After adjusting, shake your head gently or nod—if the wig still shifts, tighten the straps a bit more, but stop if you feel any tension on your scalp (you should still be able to fit one finger under the cap for comfort).
This method typically reduces the wig’s circumference by 0.5–1 inch, which works for most minor “too big” issues (e.g., if your head is 22 inches and the wig’s base size is 22.5 inches).
b. Use the Internal Combs/Clips to Secure Loose Areas
Glueless wigs usually have 3–4 internal combs (1 at the front hairline, 1 on each side, and 1 at the nape). These combs can be positioned to “grip” your natural hair or wig cap, pulling the wig tighter against your head.
For side gaps: If the wig feels loose on the sides, slide the side combs slightly closer to your temples (instead of leaving them near the ears) and snap them into your hair/wig cap.
For front slippage: Tuck the front comb a bit deeper into your hairline (just above your natural hair roots) to anchor it—this prevents the wig from sliding forward.
c. Add a Wig Grip Band (for Extra Security)
If the above steps still leave the wig loose (e.g., if the wig is 1.5+ inches too big), a wig grip band is a safe, non - damaging solution.
Choose a thin, elastic wig grip (satin or velvet - lined styles are gentle on scalps): Wear it around your head, just above your hairline, before putting on the wig.
The grip band creates friction between your scalp and the wig cap, stopping slippage without glue. It also adds a tiny bit of bulk, which can help fill in small gaps from an oversized wig.
2. If the Straight Glueless Wig Is Too Small
Adjusting a too - small glueless wig is trickier, as you can’t “stretch” the cap beyond its natural limits (especially if it’s made of non - stretch material like standard lace or net). However, you can expand the fit slightly for minor tightness:
a. Loosen the Adjustable Nape Straps
First, check if the straps are already at their loosest setting. If not:
For hook - style straps: Move the hooks to the farthest (loosest) loop to lengthen the strap. For Velcro straps, peel the Velcro apart and reattach it at the loosest possible position.
This adds a small amount of space (0.5 inch max) and can relieve tightness around the nape—ideal if the wig feels snug only at the back.
b. Stretch the Cap Gently (for Stretchable Materials)
If the wig has a stretch cap (e.g., made of stretch lace, spandex - blended net, or “breathable stretch” fabric), you can gently expand it:
Hold the wig cap by the front hairline and nape, then pull it slightly outward (like stretching a sock) for 5–10 seconds. Repeat this 2–3 times—don’t pull too hard, as this can tear the lace or damage the stitching.
You can also wear the straight glueless wig over a thick wig cap (or a soft beanie, if you don’t have natural hair) for 1–2 hours. The gentle pressure from the cap will help the stretchy wig material “relax” and conform to a slightly larger shape over time.
c. Avoid Cutting or Altering the Cap (Unless You’re Experienced)
Cutting the wig cap (e.g., trimming the lace at the nape or sides) to make it bigger is risky—even small cuts can ruin the cap’s structure, cause fraying, or make the wig unwearable. Only attempt this if you have experience with wig customization (e.g., using fabric glue to add a small strip of matching lace to the nape). If the wig is more than 0.5 inches too small, it’s usually better to exchange it for a larger size (if possible) rather than trying to alter it.
Key Tips to Protect the Wig During Adjustments
Never pull the wig cap or straps aggressively—this can break the elastic, tear the lace, or loosen the hair strands (especially for human - hair wigs).
For human - hair straight glueless wig, avoid getting any products (like hairspray) on the cap during adjustments—products can stiffen the material and reduce its flexibility.
If you’re using a wig grip band or extra wig cap to adjust the fit, choose soft, breathable materials (like satin) to prevent scalp irritation.
In short: Minor “too big” issues are easy to fix with adjustable straps, combs, or grip bands. For “too small” wigs, rely on loosening straps or gentle stretching (if the cap is stretchable)—and avoid risky alterations unless you’re experienced. If the fit is drastically off (e.g., 2+ inches too big/small), exchanging for the correct size is always the best option.