$35K - $80K/yr
Salary Range
7+
Job Titles
10+
Top Cities
5
Certifications
What is a Wig Stylist?
A wig stylist specializes in creating, customizing, installing, and maintaining wigs and hairpieces. They work with lace front wigs, closures, frontals, and custom units for fashion, medical, and theatrical purposes.
What Wig Stylists Do
- Create custom wigs and hairpieces
- Install lace front wigs and closures
- Customize and cut wigs to fit clients
- Tint and bleach lace for seamless blending
- Style and maintain wigs
- Consult on wig selection and care
- Create medical wigs for hair loss clients
- Ventilate and hand-tie wigs
Typical Wig Stylist Job Titles
Wig Stylist Salary & Career Path
Average Salary Range
$35K - $80K/yr
Median: $50,000/yr
Entry Level
0-2 years: Junior Wig Stylist ($30K-$40K/year)
Mid Level
3-6 years: Wig Specialist ($45K-$60K/year)
Senior Level
7+ years: Master Wig Maker, Custom Designer ($65K-$80K+/year)
Skills & Requirements
Required Skills
- Wig construction and ventilating
- Lace front installation
- Wig cutting and customization
- Lace tinting and bleaching
- Client head measurements
- Wig styling techniques
- Product knowledge
- Sensitivity for medical clients
Preferred Certifications
- State Cosmetology License
- Wig Making Certification
- Medical Wig Specialist Training
- Lace Front Installation Certification
- Theatrical Wig Training
Education Requirements
Many states require a cosmetology license for wig services. Additional training in wig construction, installation, and medical wig fitting is highly valuable.
Top Cities for Wig Stylist Jobs
Related Roles
Frequently Asked Questions
Wig installation involves applying pre-made wigs to clients (gluing, sewing, or clipping). Wig making involves constructing wigs from scratch, including ventilating hair onto lace caps. Some specialists do both.
Wig installation services typically range from $50-$150+. Custom wig creation can range from $500 to $3,000+ depending on hair quality and complexity. Medical wigs often command premium prices.
Yes! The wig industry has grown significantly, driven by both fashion trends and the need for medical wigs. Skilled wig specialists, especially those who can create custom units, are in high demand.
Requirements vary by state. Some states require a cosmetology license for any hair service including wig installation, while others have fewer restrictions. Check your state's regulations.