How to Install a U-Part Wig
- Braid your hair: Braid most of your natural hair tightly back into cornrows. You can also choose to only braid the outer perimeter of your head where the clips will be attached, and leave the rest loose underneath the wig.
- Leave out the leave-out: Leave a U-shaped section of hair at the top to cover the edges of the wig.
- Clip in the wig: Place the U-part wig around the opening and secure it firmly with the clips onto your braids.
- Blend the edges: Comb your leave-out hair over the U-shaped edge and style it together with the wig for a seamless blend.
Tips for a Perfect Leave-Out
- Wide leave-out: It’s better to take a little too much hair than too little for your leave-out. If the section is too thin, it will part more easily and reveal the edge of the wig.
- Cross the clips: Attach the wig clips as close as possible to the edge of your leave-out, so there’s no gap or bump between them.
Heat Protection: Essential for a U-Part Wig
A good heat protectant is essential when wearing a U-part wig. You need to protect two things: your delicate natural leave-out from heat damage, and the human hair of the wig so it stays silky smooth for months.
Recommended Product
Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum: A weightless serum that protects up to 232°C and instantly repairs damaged hair from within. Ideal for dry hair and premium human hair wigs.
Additional Heat Protection Tips
- Apply to dry hair: If you want to quickly touch up your leave-out with a flat iron, choose a heat protectant that can be applied to dry hair. Never flat iron wet hair — you’ll essentially be cooking your own hair.
- Go easy on oils: Use sprays or light serums. Heavy oils will weigh down your leave-out and make it look greasy, causing it to separate from the wig and reveal the edge.
Safe Temperature Guidelines
The ideal temperature for styling your U-part wig and leave-out depends entirely on the thickness and texture of the hair. Because the wig is made from 100% human hair, it can burn and dry out at too high a temperature.
Temperature Guide for U-Part Wigs (Human Hair)
- Fine / Thin hair: Style quickly between 150°C and 170°C.
- Normal / Medium hair: Style between 170°C and 190°C.
- Thick, coarse or coily/kinky hair: Maximum 190°C to 200°C. Never exceed 200°C to preserve the lifespan of your wig.