How to Measure Your Head for a Wig

Getting the right wig size is the difference between a unit that sits perfectly and one that shifts, gaps or feels uncomfortable. The good news — measuring your head takes less than five minutes and you only need a soft tape measure.

What You'll Need

• A soft fabric or dressmaker's tape measure
• A mirror
• Hair clips or pins to flatten your natural hair

If you don't have a tape measure, a piece of string and a ruler work just as well.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Head

1. Circumference (the most important measurement)

Place the tape measure at your natural hairline in the centre of your forehead. Wrap it around your head — just above your ears, across the nape of your neck, and back to the starting point. Keep the tape snug but not tight. This gives you your head circumference.

Most adult women measure between 21–23 inches. Standard wig cap sizes are:

• Petite: under 21.5 inches
• Average: 21.5–22.5 inches
• Large: over 22.5 inches

2. Front to Nape

Measure from the centre of your forehead hairline, over the top of your head, down to the nape of your neck. This helps determine wig length and cap depth.

3. Ear to Ear (across the top)

Measure from just in front of one ear, over the crown of your head, to just in front of the other ear. This helps with cap width.

4. Ear to Ear (across the forehead)

Measure from one temple, across your forehead along the hairline, to the other temple.

5. Nape Width

Measure the width of your nape hairline from one side to the other. This is especially important for lace closure and custom unit construction.

Tips for an Accurate Measurement

• Flatten your natural hair as much as possible before measuring — braids and flat twists give the most consistent base
• Measure twice to confirm accuracy
• If you're between sizes, size up — a wig that's slightly too large can be adjusted with wig combs or grip bands; one that's too small can't be stretched

Custom Wigs vs Ready-to-Wear

If your measurements don't fall neatly into a standard size — or if you have a very flat or very curved head shape — a custom-made wig will give you the best fit. At EA HAIR, all custom units are built to your exact measurements for a secure, natural result.

Shop ready-to-wear wigs or book a custom wig consultation in Manchester.