As African American women explore the different protective styles available, wigs become more and more popular. If you’re new to buying and wearing wigs, you’ll probably have a few questions about the different terms that you will come across. For example, one question that comes up a lot is ‘what’s the difference between a full lace wig and a lace front wig?’. So, to ensure you’re getting the right experience, here are all the things you need to know.
- Below is a picture of a full lace wig.
How Is A Full Lace Wig Different From A Lace Front Wig?
The full lace wig is made entirely of lace and is usually hand-made using human hair and kanekalon fiber. The hair is individually looped instead of having tracks of hair like the lace front wig. A lace front wig only has lace in a specific section of the wig – usually the front piece. The rest of the wig consists of a wig cap made from a cloth-like material. While the lace front wig still uses human hair, it’s machine-made and typically has seams where the hair is stitched-in. In the middle is a 360-lace wig with the lace area all around the edges of the wig.
- Below is a picture of a lace front knotless braid wig.
What Are the Pros and Cons of These Wigs?
Given the difference in materials, full lace wigs are usually more expensive than front lace ones. Full lace can cost up to $300, while the lace front option might be half that price. However, based on how they’re made, a full lace wig will feel more natural, while the lace front has bumps from the seams if someone tries to run their hands through your hair.
A full lace wig is the better option if you’re looking for versatility. You’ll be able to have ponytails, cornrows, twist-outs, and different scalp braid styles like faux locs or distressed locs. Finally, the full lace wig is more breathable, making it comfortable to wear and an excellent fit for those with a sensitive scalp. A lace front wig allows you to have a fuller hairstyle, though, because of the bulk of the hair it carries.
Can You Do It Yourself?
Yes, you can, although it can be challenging for a beginner to prepare braided wigs for installation, especially the lace front one. You’ll usually need to cut it to fit your head correctly so that it meets the style you want. Regardless of the wig you choose, securing it well with suitable glue will be necessary. Many people choose to go to a skilled stylist for at least the first few installations.
How Can We Help?
Some people may say that anyone can learn how to install braid wigs, but we’ve found that it’s not so all that easy. However, a lot can go into preparing a wig to get the best style for you on the first try. Once you’ve decided which type of wig suits your needs, purchase it, try it and see how suitable it looks on you. The best way to know if anything is good for you is to try it out.
