LACE FRONT WIGS VS FULL LACE WIGS: WHICH IS BETTER?
Which is best, full lace or front lace?
Full-lace wigs:
A full-lace wig uses lace throughout the entire base, and hair must be hand-sewn in because the lace is so delicate. Although this can make full-lace wigs somewhat more expensive, the payoff is flexibility - full-lace wigs can be styled any way you wish. The full-lace base ensures that wherever you part the hair, it will look natural.
Another benefit of full-lace wigs is their breathability - lace is a durable but light material that allows for better airflow around the wearer’s scalp. They are also lighter than lace-front wigs, because a lace base cannot anchor the same volume of hair as bases made of thicker materials.
Finally, full-lace wigs are valued for their durability - the lace base can be bonded all over the wearer’s head, so full-lace wigs can be worn for workouts and even swimming.
Lace-front wigs:
Lace-front wigs use lace at the front of the wig, usually extending to about three inches above the hairline, where a small seam connects it to a mesh base that anchors the hair in the rest of the wig. Front-lace wigs are more affordable than full-lace because hair can be machine-sewn into the mesh.
The lace-front allows for a natural hairline at the front, and hair can be parted above the forehead, but not throughout the rest of the wig. Lace-front wigs are slightly heavier, but also allow for thicker and more voluminous hair at the back. Although slightly less durable, lace-front wigs are considered easier for first-time wig-wearers because they are bonded to the head in fewer places.
Which Wig Type Is Better?
Different people have different preferences and options about various types of hair systems. Therefore, there’s no exact conclusion regarding whether lace front or full lace wigs are better.
Even though we can give you our take on which one to choose, the final choice is up to you. Generally speaking, beginner wig wearers start with a lace front. Since there’s only one area to secure, they can be easier to work with than full lace.
Another thing to consider is the length of time you’ll be wearing the wig. With this in mind, a breathable and more comfortable wig might be a better option for you. In essence, both types of wigs are durable.
However, full lace wigs are adhered to the entire head. Although some people go swimming in this wig type, the chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on wigs. But you can move freely and exercise without worrying that the wig will droop.
On the other hand, you’ll want to be more conscious when wearing a lace front. Given that it’s only secured in the front, if the adhesive breaks down, you might need to readjust. Your wig line is what makes the wig look natural. So, be careful not to have your wig line slip up or fall too much.
The styling options of these two types of wigs is different also. This could be a point to help you decide which type of wig you want to invest in. With the full lace, you can create endless types of hairstyles. For instance, the very popular high ponytail.
Conversely, lace front wigs have somewhat limited styling options. In general, you can only part the hair as far as the lace extends. As such, you may want to opt for more versatility that full lace offers. But there are stylists who can style your wig regardless whether it’s lace front or full lace wig.
Price
Although full lace wigs have many benefits as shown in the table above, it means that they often come with a larger price tag than that of lace front wigs.
Natural Look
One of the many benefits of lace front wigs is the natural hairline effect they create at the front of the hair. With lace fronts, you can choose to part your hair in the middle or on the sides, depending on your favoured style. However, with full lace wigs, your parting decisions are not limited and a natural look is effortlessly achievable, as the illusion of natural hair is apparent from all angles. This is also true with lace fronts, but you just need to make sure everything is covered at the back, so your wig remains undetected.
Style Versatility
Full lace wigs can be styled in any way you like, from high ponytails to braids, you can get as creative as you like without giving the game away that you’re wearing a wig. It’s important to remember that full lace wigs are often thinner than lace front wigs and therefore they tend not to have as much natural volume. Lace fronts have plenty of natural volume, but can’t be styled in as many ways as full lace fronts can be due to having a different material forming part of the cap.
Durability and Maintenance
With the correct wig care, both wig types can last between 6-12 months, depending on how often you wear them and how you store and care for them. For some useful top tips on wig care, please check out our handy guide on the best ways of looking after your wig.
Application
Lace front wigs are only attached at the front edges of the head and, as far as wig application goes, they’re pretty easy to apply once you figure out your preferred method for securing wigs. Full lace wigs are easy to apply too, however as previously mentioned, a wig cap is recommended for the application so that the wig is secure and doesn’t irritate your scalp.
So, which is better, full lace or front lace? It’s entirely your decision, based on your style, wig-wearing habits and overall budget. Both types of wigs have many benefits; you just need to figure out which ones are most suited to you. Remember, feeling comfortable is the key to feeling confident, so be sure to take that into consideration before investing in any wig. To take a look at our full collection of stunning wigs, made up of a range of different wigs types, then just head back to our online wig store to start browsing!