Habutae is used to get the hair out of the way for applying makeup and to act as a wig cap. Apply On Toko Abura or Taihaku to the cloth bands, which are used to both secure the Habutae to the head and pull the skin of the face upwards, in particular the corners of the eyes.

The Maruhabutae is a heavy duty version of the Habutae design for the rigour of stage work. It is traditional used by males.