Prepare, apply, remove and clean wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions to change the performer's appearance

URN: SKSHWMP10
Business Sectors (Suites): Hair, Wigs, Make Up and Prosthetics for Productions
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 30 Mar 2021

Overview

​This standard is about your ability to implement various methods and techniques to alter performers' appearances using wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions.

It requires selection of wigs and hairpieces that you will use having regard for the following:

  • design
  • performers skin
  • production budget and schedule
  • potential effects on wigs and hair pieces caused by shooting conditions
  • cutting techniques required
  • the effect of styling and finishing products upon wigs and hairpieces

It involves explaining the application and fitting of wigs and hairpieces. It is about positioning wigs and hair pieces to meet the design requirement and desired effect.

It involves ensuring that the wigs and hair pieces are clean and dry.

It covers using tools and equipment to cut, set and dress wigs and hair pieces to achieve the required effect.

This standard is applicable to all roles and requires prior training and experience in hairdressing.


Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. ​work in accordance with the design brief and to the schedule and budgetary constraints of the production
  2. test performers' skin for potential adverse reactions to  adhesives, removers and wig hair
  3. take action if the adhesive causes harmful skin reactions
  4. ensure the appropriate wig or hair piece is chosen
  5. inform performers of the process to fit wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions
  6. confirm the complexion and hair colouring of the performer as necessary
  7. place performers in a comfortable position for wig, hair piece and hair extension application that minimises disruption to others
  8. select the wigs and hairpieces that you will use having regard to the performers skin, needs of the production
  9. consider the techniques required and the effects of cutting, styling and finishing products upon wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions
  10. select the types of hair materials and adhesives to fit wigs and hair pieces having considered potential adverse skin effects and the required mobility and security of wigs and hairpieces
  11. use the correct methods, tools and materials to clean, dry, cut and set wigs, laces and hair pieces prior to dressing
  12. block or position wigs and hair pieces to meet the design requirements and the type of wig and hair piece used
  13. ensure that wigs and hair pieces are removed following guidelines
  14. document all necessary information regarding wigs and hairpieces
  15. apply hair extensions taking into account the type of extensions used and the condition of the performer's hair type
  16. remove hair extensions following guidelines
  17. maintain tools and equipment used
  18. clean and store wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions
  19. follow health and safety policies and guidelines are when working with

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. ​the requirements of the design brief, including the face and head shape of the performer
  2. the criteria to consider when selecting wigs and hair pieces
  3. how to complete skin tests and what action to take in the event of an adverse skin reaction
  4. time and budgetary constraints to consider when preparing to fit wigs and hair
  5. the fitting process of wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions
  6. how to access information to confirm the complexion and hair colouring of the performer
  7. how to record information taken in a fitting
  8. how to source and liaise with wig and hair pieces suppliers
  9. the criteria to consider when selecting hair materials and adhesives
  10. the required mobility and security of wigs, hair pieces and extensions
  11. how to clean the lace and wash the wig, hair piece or hair extension
  12. the difference in approach to styling and maintenance of artificial and human hair
  13. the different cutting techniques required for artificial and human hair
  14. how to block or position wigs and hair pieces to meet the design requirements
  15. how to dress wigs and hair pieces to meet the design requirements
  16. how to use a wig oven
  17. where and how to store and clean wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions
  18. the factors to consider when selecting hair extensions, including the weight of the extensions and how much of the performers hair will be visible
  19. how using hair extensions will affect the condition of the performer's original hair and how this affects the materials and methods you choose
  20. the methods and techniques for applying hair extensions
  21. how to remove hair extensions safely and carefully
  22. how to maintain tools and equipment
  23. the health and safety legislation, policies and guidelines that apply to working with wigs, hair pieces and hair extensions

Scope/range


Scope Performance


Scope Knowledge


Values


Behaviours


Skills


Glossary


Links To Other NOS


External Links


Version Number

3

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2026

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

ScreenSkills

Original URN

SKSHM8

Relevant Occupations

Arts, Media and Publishing, Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Hairdressers and Related Occupations, Media and Communication, Performing Arts, Personal Service Occupations

SOC Code

6221

Keywords

wigs, hair pieces, hair extentions, hair, appearance, apply, remove, performer, health and safety