UV20503 - VTCT

VRQ 

Wig services 

UV20503 

A/601/5366 

Learner name: 

Learner number:

Statement of unit achievement 

VTCT is the specialist awarding body for the Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, 

Complementary Therapy and Sport and Active Leisure sectors, with over 45 

years of experience. 

VTCT is an awarding body regulated by national organisations including 

Ofqual, SQA, DCELLS and CCEA. 

VTCT is a registered charity investing in education and skills but also giving to 

good causes in the area of facial disfigurement. 

By signing this statement of unit achievement you are confirming that all learning outcomes, assessment 

criteria and range statements have been achieved under specified conditions and that the evidence 

gathered is authentic. 

This statement of unit achievement table must be completed prior to claiming certification. 

Unit code Date achieved Learner signature 

Assessor tracking table 

Assessor name Assessor signature 

Assessor 

initials 

Assessors 

initials 

IV signature 

(if sampled) 

All assessors using this Record of Assessment book must complete this table. This is required for 

verification purposes. 

Assessor number 

(optional)


Wig services 

Through this unit you will develop the skill of preparing and 

fitting various types of wigs and hair pieces for your clients. 

You will develop the skill of creating a comfortable 

setting for your clients, and provide them with a thorough 

consultation. You will fit, adjust, cut, style and maintain wigs 

and hairpieces using a variety of tools and techniques. 

Part of this service is to provide your client with good 

aftercare advice. 

This unit is suitable for both hairdressers and barbers. 

UV20503_v6

Level 

Credit value 

GLH 

2 

5 

40 

Observation(s) 

3 

External paper(s) 

1

Wig services 

Learning outcomes Evidence requirements 

On completion of this unit you will: 

1. Be able to prepare and fit different types of 

wigs 

2. Be able to cut and style wigs 

1. Environment 

Evidence for this unit must be gathered in a 

real or realistic working environment. 

2. Simulation 

At least 75% of ‘Observation’ outcomes 

must be on real clients. 

3. Observation outcomes 

Competent performance of ‘Observation’ 

outcomes must be demonstrated to your 

assessor on at least three occasions. 

4. Range 

All ranges must be practically demonstrated 

or other forms of evidence produced to 

show they have been covered. 

5. Knowledge outcomes 

There must be evidence that you possess 

all the knowledge and understanding 

listed in the ‘Knowledge’ section of this 

unit. This evidence may include projects, 

assignments, case studies, reflective 

accounts, oral/written questioning and/or 

other forms of evidence. 

6. Tutor/Assessor guidance 

You will be guided by your tutor/assessor 

on how to achieve learning outcomes and 

ranges in this unit. All outcomes and ranges 

must be achieved. 

7. External paper 

Knowledge and understanding in this unit 

will be assessed by an external paper. 

The criteria that make up this paper are 

highlighted in white throughout this unit. 

There is one external paper that must be 

achieved. 


3

4 

Achieving observations 

and range 

Achieving observation outcomes 

Your assessor will observe your performance 

of practical tasks. The minimum number 

of observations required is indicated in the 

evidence requirements section of this unit. 

Criteria may not always naturally occur during 

a practical observation. In such instances you 

will be asked questions to demonstrate your 

competence in this area. Your assessor will 

document the criteria that have been achieved 

through oral questioning. 

Your assessor will sign off an outcome when all 

criteria have been competently achieved in a 

single client service. 

Achieving range 

The range section indicates what must 

be covered. Ranges should be practically 

demonstrated as part of an observation. Where 

this is not possible other forms of evidence may 

be produced. All ranges must be covered. 

Your assessor will document the portfolio 

reference once a range has been competently 

achieved. 


Maximum service times 

There are no maximum service times that apply 

to this unit.

Outcome 1 

You can: 

a. Create the right setting in which clients feel 

comfortable enough to express their needs, 

expectations and concerns 

Observations 

Be able to prepare and fit different types of wigs 

b. Prepare yourself, the client, the wig/ 

hairpieces and the work area for the service 

c. Use suitable consultation techniques that 

enable the client to express their concerns 

and expectations without embarrassment 

d. Fit and adjust wigs/hairpieces on the client’s 

head 

e. Complete client records including head 

measurements/sizes 

f. Follow safe and hygienic working practices 

*May be assessed through oral questioning. 

Observation 1 2 3 

Date achieved 

Criteria questioned orally 

Portfolio reference 

Assessor initials 

Learner signature 

UV20503 5

6 

© Habia 

Outcome 2 

Be able to cut and style wigs 

You can: 

a. Select and use products, tools, equipment 

and techniques as required to achieve the 

desired look 

b. Cut and style wigs to achieve a 

personalised look 

c. Monitor and maintain client comfort 

throughout the service 

d. Complete the service to the satisfaction of 

the client 

*May be assessed through oral questioning. 

Observation 

Date achieved 

Criteria questioned orally 

Portfolio reference 

Assessor initials 

Learner signature 

1 2 3 

UV20503

*You must practically demonstrate that you have: 

Range 

Considered all the influencing factors Portfolio reference 

Hair condition 

Hair cut 

Hair length 

Hair density 

Head and face shape 

Existing colour of hair 

Skin tone 

The occasion for which the style is required 

Used all cutting techniques Portfolio reference 

Club cutting 

Freehand 

Scissors-over-comb 

Used a minimum of 5 blow-drying and setting techniques Portfolio reference 

Straightening 

Smoothing 

Creating volume 

Creating movement 

Creating curl 

Directional set 

Brick set 

*It is strongly recommended that all range items are practically demonstrated. Where this is not 

possible, other forms of evidence may be produced to demonstrate competence. 


8 

© Habia 

*You must practically demonstrate that you have: 

Used a minimum of 8 types of tools and equipment Portfolio reference 

Dressing comb 

Round brush 

Flat brush 

Pin curl clips 

Rollers and pins 

Heated rollers 

Tongs 

Straighteners 

Hand dryer 

Nozzle 

Hood drier 

Scissors 

Given all the types of aftercare advice Portfolio reference 

Suitable aftercare products and their use 

Use of heated styling equipment 

How to recreate and maintain the style 

Time interval between services 

*It is strongly recommended that all range items are practically demonstrated. Where this is not 

possible, other forms of evidence may be produced to demonstrate competence. 

UV20503

Achieving knowledge outcomes 

You will be guided by your tutor and assessor 

on the evidence that needs to be produced. 

Your knowledge and understanding will be 

assessed using the assessment methods listed 

below: 

• Observed work 

• Witness statements 

• Audio-visual media 

• Evidence of prior learning or attainment 

• Written questions 

• Oral questions 

• Assignments 

• Case studies 

Achieving the external paper 

Developing knowledge 

Where possible your assessor will integrate 

knowledge outcomes into practical observations 

through oral questioning. 

The external paper will test your knowledge of the criteria highlighted in white. A pass mark of 

70% must be achieved. Criteria not achieved will be identified to your tutor/assessor. You will then 

be orally questioned or asked to produce other forms of evidence as all unit criteria must 

be achieved. 

Your assessor will complete the following table when the 70% pass mark has been achieved. 

Paper Date achieved Assessor initials 

1 of 1 


10 

Knowledge 

Outcome 1 


You can: 

g. Identify factors that may influence the selection of wigs/hairpieces 

h. Explain the importance of creating a setting in which clients feel 

comfortable and ensures privacy 

i. Explain the importance of treating clients with sensitivity and 

empathy 

j. Explain why it is important to encourage and allow time for clients 

to ask questions 

k. Explain how to check that clients understand verbal and written 

information that they have been given 

l. Explain the types of expectations, concerns and needs that the 

clients may have and how to deal with them 

m. Describe the factors that may influence the choice of services and 

resources 

n. State the importance of identifying factors that may limit, prevent or 

affect the service 

o. State the importance of recording all service details 

p. Explain the reasons for wearing wigs/hairpieces 

q. Describe how to cleanse and condition wigs/hairpieces 

*Assessor initials to be inserted if orally questioned. 

Requirements highlighted in white are assessed in the external paper. 


Portfolio reference / 

Assessor initials*

Outcome 1 (continued) 


You can: 

r. Explain why there is a need to be sensitive when dealing with 

clients with hair loss 

s. Describe the growth cycle of hair 

t. Describe the salon’s requirement for client preparation, preparing 

yourself and the work area 

u. Outline safe and hygienic working practices 



© Wahl 


Assessor initials* 


12 

© Habia 

Outcome 2 

Be able to cut and style wigs 

You can: 

e. Explain the importance of choosing the correct products, tools, 

equipment and techniques to suit wigs/hairpieces and the client 

f. Describe the styling techniques that can be carried out for different 

types of wigs/hairpieces 

g. Explain the importance of personalising wigs 

h. Explain the importance of monitoring and maintaining client 

comfort throughout the service 

i. Describe the aftercare advice that should be provided to the client 





Assessor initials*

Unit content 

This section provides guidance on the recommended knowledge and skills required to enable you 

to achieve each of the learning outcomes in this unit. Your tutor/assessor will ensure you have the 

opportunity to cover all of the unit content. 

Outcome 1: Be able to prepare and fit different types of wigs 

Create a comfortable setting for your 

clients: Provide a degree of privacy 

(separate room, sectioned off area, away 

from salon windows, separate from other 

clients). 

Preparation of self: Clothes (salon 

requirements for uniform, clean/ironed 

clothes, non-restrictive, closed in low heel 

shoes), hair (clean, healthy, manageable, 

off face), personal hygiene (clean body, 

teeth, workable length clean nails, 

deodorant, no overpowering perfume/ 

aftershave), personal protective equipment 

(gloves, apron, prevent dermatitis), minimal 

jewellery, positive attitude, ready to greet. 

Preparation of client: Remove client’s 

outer clothing, protect against damage, 

ensure client relaxed and comfortable 

(posture, aids service), remove excessive 

jewellery (avoid damage to jewellery and 

skin), gown, towel, plastic cape, barrier 

cream, ensure client comfort, record card. 

Preparation of work area: Chair, 

trolley, work station, equipment cleaned, 

appropriate sterilisation (barbicide, 

autoclave, UV, sterilising spray), complete 

destruction of all living organisms on tools 

and equipment, disinfection (remove 

contamination from hard surfaces, large 

work areas, floors and work surfaces, heat 

or chemical methods), use of trolley, safe 

professional presentation tools and 

equipment, visual check on large and small 

equipment, electrical equipment checked, 

portable appliance test, select height of 

chair/basin. 

Preparation of hair pieces: 

Human/animal hair – (to clean) ventilated 

room or use fume cabinet, cleaning fluid 

(trichloroethylene), decant in a bowl, turn 

wig inside out, place in bowl, allow fluid to 

penetrate hair, draw through fluid roots to 

points, continue until dust/dirt has been 

removed, remove from the fluid, place on 

towel, squeeze out excess moisture, hang 

by nape, allow fluid to evaporate, when 

completely dry fix to a malleable block and 

style. 

Artificial hair – (to clean) prepare bowl of 

warm soapy water, turn the postiche inside 

out, place wig in bowl, allow water to 

penetrate, squeeze gently to remove dirt, 

clean water and rinse, gently squeeze 

moisture out, allow to dry naturally, attach 

to a malleable block and brush as desired. 

Consultation techniques: Use a variety 

of methods to ensure suitability of service, 

product and technique. 

Questioning – open, closed, probing. 

Language – appropriate level for client, 

use of technical/non-technical language. 

Client expectations/needs – listen, clarify, 

advise, plan. 

History of hair – hair tests, touch, feel, 

look of hair. 

Advice – what will work, what will not? 

Use visual aids - shade charts, style book, 

portfolio, collection of pictures. 


14 

© Habia 

Outcome 1: Be able to prepare and fit different types of wigs (continued) 

Factors that influence services: 

Previous chemical services, percentage of 

grey, client requirements, tools and 

equipment, presence of added hair, 

maintenance of style suitability. 

Hair condition – dry, greasy, normal, 

virgin, chemically treated, elasticity 

(strength of hair), porosity (damage to 

cuticle layer, the ability to absorb moisture). 

Hair cut/style – uniform layer, one length, 

short graduation, long graduation. 

Temperature – body heat, salon 

temperature, added heat. 

Texture – fine, medium, coarse. 

Length – short, medium, long. 

Density – fine, medium, thick. 

Growth patterns – cowlick, widow’s peak, 

nape whorl, double crown, male pattern 

baldness. 

Skin tone – fair, medium, olive, dark. 

Face shape – oval, round, square, oblong, 

heart, pear. 

Head shape – large, medium, small. 

Existing curl – tight, soft, wave. 

Lifestyle – job, family, financial, time. 

Test results - good, bad, caution, positive, 

negative. 

Type of wig – human or synthetic hair. 

Reason for hair loss – alopecia, 

chemotherapy, scar tissue. 

Hair and scalp contra-indications: Can 

prevent/alter service, product, technique. 

Type of conditions – skin disorders 

(disease, infestation, infection, defect, 

bacteria, virus, fungi, parasites). 


Skin sensitivities – reaction. 

Allergies – latex, nut, plasters, perfume, 

oil. 

History of allergic reaction – positive 

reaction to skin test, colour service. 

Incompatible products – metallic salts, 

previous chemical treatments. 

Medication – prescription medication. 

Medical condition – high blood pressure, 

pregnancy, radio therapy, cancer. 

Hair condition – chemical, heat damage, 

environmental. 

Hair disorder – contagious/noncontagious. 

Skin disorder – contagious/ 

non-contagious, cross infection (stylist to 

client, client to stylist). 

Contagious: 

Bacterial – impetigo (blisters, weep, yellow 

crust), folliculitis (yellow pustules), sycosis 

(yellow, spot, follicle), furunculosis (pus 

filled spot), sebaceous cyst (lump on top or 

under skin). 

Viral – warts (raised, rough skin, brown), 

herpes (blisters). 

Fungal – tinea capitis/ringworm (patches, 

pink/grey, scaly, broken hair). 

Animal parasites – pediculosis capitis 

(head lice, parasite, 6 legs, suck blood), 

scabies (parasites, mites). 

Non-contagious: 

Psoriasis – over production of skin cells, 

dry, silvery, scales. 

Cicatrical alopecia – scar. 

Alopecia totalis – complete hair loss.


Male pattern baldness – hair recedes at 

hairline or loss crown. 

Traction alopecia – excessive pulling, 

brushing curling and straightening. 

Alopecia areata – stress, bald patches 

seborrhea (excessive oil). 

Dandruff – itchy, white, skin cells. 

Dry scalp – white, powdery. 

Eczema/dermatitis – allergic reaction to 

detergent, red, irritation, swollen, weeping. 

Acne – raised bumps and spots. 

Defects of the hair: 

Fragilitas crinium – spilt, dry, ends. 

Monilethrix – beaded hair. 

Trichorrhexis nodosa – rough, swollen, 

broken shaft. 

Sebaceous cyst – sebum filled lump. 

Damaged cuticle – dull hair. 

Fit and adjust wigs/hairpieces on the 

client’s head: 

Attaching a wig – hold the centre front, 

using finger and thumb, place on forehead 

hairline, gently ease the wig backwards, 

over the crown towards nape, ease 

protruding hair under wig using a tail comb, 

ensure that the fit is good, adjust the 

tension elastic. 

Attaching a toupee – check for cuts/ 

abrasions, cleanse scalp using surgical 

spirit, remove grease/build up of adhesive 

tape, cut lengths of adhesive tape to the 

correct size, paint toupee gum/spirit onto 

the tape, place the toupee carefully on the 

head, press firmly to ensure good 

adhesion, dress the toupee. 

© Wahl 

Attaching wired weft/hair piece – make a 

large pin curl with slightly backcombed hair, 

attach weft, use combs/grips/or 

existing hair. 

Recording service details on client 

records: Picture of client before hair loss, 

contact information, product usage, date 

of service, changes to service, contraindications, 

problems, cost of service, 

test results, aftercare, requirements for 

hair piece or wig (measurements), style 

required, estimated price of work to be 

carried out, any abnormalities (bumps, 

cysts, hollows in the scalp), date of fitting, 

the colour of hair (attach a sample). 

Head measurements/sizes: 

Circumference of head – choose widest 

part of head, start from front hairline back 

and across occipital bone forward to 

hairline and back to starting point. 

Ear to ear – from ear over the top of the 

head to ear, temple peak to temple peak, 

round the back. 

Hairline – width of the nape, width of 

forehead, length from ear to nape. 

Readymade wigs – created in one size, 

adjust straps to head size, found in the 

nape of the wig. 

How to follow safe and hygienic working 

practices: 

Maintaining a safe salon – clean, tidy, 

safe standards of working, remove 

spillages, report slippery surfaces, remove/ 

report obstacles, clear access to trolleys 

and equipment, clean/sterilise/disinfect 

(tools, equipment, work surfaces), no 

smoking, eating, drinking or drugs in salon, 

professional personal hygiene. 


16 

© Habia 


Personal protective equipment – 

wear protective equipment, avoid latex, 

powdered gloves, apron. 

Electricity at work – visual check of 

equipment, no trailing wires, portable 

appliance testing. 

Manual handling – moving stock safely, 

lifting, working heights, unpacking. 

Towels – wash regularly, clean for every 

client, place dirty towels in covered bin. 

Reporting of injuries diseases and 

dangerous occurrences – accident book, 

reporting diseases, log accidents. 

Control of substances hazardous to 

health – store, handle, use, disposal, 

replace lids, ventilation for vapour and dust, 

avoid over exposure to chemicals, use 

manufacturers instructions for use. 

Disposal of waste – sharps box, closed 

top bin, dilute chemicals with running water, 

environmental protection, salon policies for 

hazardous waste, single use items, 

empties (recycle). 

Product storage – check end date/ 

packaging, store away from heat/damp/ 

direct sunlight, empties avoid theft. 

The importance of treating clients with 

sensitivity and empathy: If clients have 

lost hair due to an accident or illness they 

need a confidence boost, they may have 

depression, feel unattractive, be 

undergoing treatment, coping with a 

change in their appearance, may feel 

isolated. Treat clients with compassion and 

sympathy, they need to feel special, they 

need a place to trust to be able to return 

(build a rapport). 


Why it is important to encourage 

and allow time for clients to ask 

questions: Successful service, stop 

misunderstandings, achieve client 

expectations, gain trust, express their 

needs and wishes, so they fully understand 

the service available, have reasonable 

expectations. 

How to check for signs that clients 

understand verbal and written 

information: 

Signs of confirmation – smiling, nodding, 

confirming though speech. 

Signs of confusion – frowning, shake of 

head, lack of speech. 

Client concerns concerning wear wigs 

and hairpieces: 

Will I need to use a wig cap? – only if 

you have your own hair, it will flatten hair to 

allow fitting of wig, wrap hair around head 

and place the wig cap over. 

Will my wig fly off? – if properly adjusted 

no, it is very elastic, has a hook fastening 

at the base, can be tightened, adjust until 

wig feels secure. 

Will it irritate my scalp? – there could be 

some discomfort due to perspiration from 

scalp, if sensitive keep scalp moisturised, 

do not wear wig for long periods of time, let 

scalp breath. 

Should I choose human hair or 

synthetic wig? – cost, life span of wig, 

maintenance involved. 

Will the wig look real? – if cut 

professionally then yes. Cheap or synthetic 

wigs have a shiny look to them and will 

look false, more expensive wigs will look 

realistic.


Can I put my hair up if I wear a wig? – 

yes, leave hairline down/soft effect, low in 

nape. 

Why it is important to record all service 

details: Future reference, data protection, 

(lockable cabinet, password protected 

database), available to clients on request, 

up-to-date, accurate, relevant, information 

must not be mishandled, mismanaged or 

used inappropriately (can result in legal 

action), stored for appropriate timescale, 

confidential, complete immediately after the 

service, record details of fitting and styling, 

cleaning, repairs, colour and cutting, must 

be accurate. 

The reasons for wearing wigs or 

hairpieces: To cover natural hair loss 

(alopecia), an accident, to replace hair lost 

due to a medical condition (chemotherapy/ 

radiotherapy), for a play or film, to change 

looks from day to day, fancy dress. 

Hair growth cycle: ACT, repeating cycle, 

client variation in hair length (long, medium, 

short). 

Anagen – active growth, growing period 

between 1.5-7 years. 

Catagen – changing stage, 2 weeks. 

Telogen – resting stage, 4 months. 

Hair growth: ½ inch, 1.25cm, 12mm per 

month. 

Salon health and safety legislation 

and regulations: Health and safety at 

work, control of substances hazardous 

to health, reporting of injuries diseases 

and dangerous occurrences, personal 

protective equipment, electricity at work, 

manual handling, supply of goods and 

services, trade description, data protection, 

employer’s liability (compulsory insurance), 

occupier’s liability, local by-laws (set by 

council), salon rules, code of conduct, 

observance by all staff. 

© Wahl 


18 

© Habia 

Outcome 2: Be able to cut and style wigs 

Products used for styling wigs: Use 

manufacturers’ instructions for product use 

on wigs and hair pieces, using the wrong 

product can make the hair look matted and 

lank or have no effect, avoid product 

build-up. 

Natural hair – cleaning fluids 

(tricholerthylene fluids), neutralising rinse, 

styling lotions/gels, mousse, setting lotion, 

hair spray, dressing cream. 

Synthetic hair – only use shampoo and 

water to clean hair. Wax, serum or shine 

spray can be used. 

Tools and equipment used for styling 

wigs: Avoid damage to the foundation and 

knots, stop distortion, avoid damage to 

synthetic wigs (hairdryer would melt it), 

produce the right results. 

Tools and equipment – malleable blocks 

of varying sizes, polythene to cover the 

block, the block holder, postiche pins, 

postiche oven/irons, heater, tissue paper, 

tape, rollers, clips, brushes, scissors, razor, 

cutting comb, neck brush, back mirror, hair 

net, wig box, hood dryer, hand dryer. 

How to style wigs to suit your clients: 

Wig is pinned to a block for styling, hair 

gently dampened using a comb and jug (do 

not spray). 

Human hair – cohesive setting, produces 

curls/waves, pinching irons will produce 

waves, blow drying can create body, curl, 

smooth, straight. 

Synthetic hair – has no styling options 

(wash and leave to dry). 

How to cut wigs to achieve a 

personalised look: A more natural effect is 

achieved if cut on the client’s head, helps 

balance the style, can be cut on a 


malleable block, wigs are made with more 

hair than is necessary, it is important to 

remove bulk for a more natural 

appearance. 

Cutting techniques: 

Club cutting – to create blunt end to hair, 

precision cut, retain bulk and weight. 

Texturising – break up hard lines, soften 

edges, remove bulk. 

Razoring – remove length and bulk, create 

soft broken edges and texture, removing 

weight increases curl. 

Thinning – removes bulk not length. 

Scissor/clipper over comb – cut into 

nape, shorten less then finger depth, cut to 

head shape, short styles. 

Monitor and maintain client comfort 

throughout the service: Should be a 

pleasurable/comfortable experience, check 

with the client regularly, adjust seating 

position, regular comfort breaks, ensure the 

positioning of added hair piece is 

comfortable, the wig feels firm but not too 

tight. 

Why a wig should be personalised: 

Client confidence, match client’s personal 

image, suit personality and age, suit facial 

features, add balance, fit into client’s 

lifestyle. Remove bulk from wig to give a 

more natural effect. 

Methods of confirming client 

satisfaction: Body language, facial 

expressions, verbal/written feedback, 

surveys/questionnaires, repeat booking, 

recommendation. 

Provide suitable aftercare advice: 

Important part of service, avoid technical 

language, maintain eye contact, suggest/

Outcome 2: Be able to cut and style wigs (continued) 

advise/recommend, provide information. 

Maintenance – frequency of visit, regular 

services, minimise chemical treatments, 

correct use of electrical equipment, product 

use and demonstration. 

Product information and use – 

demonstration, relevant literature/leaflet. 

Cleaning – after 12-15 wears (synthetic or 

real hair). 

Scalp – allow scalp to breathe when 

indoors, do not wear the wig all day. 

Styling tips – techniques, tools, electrical 

appliance settings. 

Lifespan of wig – approximately 9 months. 

© Wahl 


20 


Notes 

Use this area for notes and diagrams

UV20503 - VTCT

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