Lace wigs can transform your natural locks while giving them a break from the strain and mechanical stress of daily styling. But what are lace wigs? To find out the answer to this question and more, all you have to do is keep reading!
In this article, we'll explain what lace wigs are, how long they last, and how to wear them. We'll also give you the rundown on all the pros and cons of wearing lace wigs, so you can determine if they're right for you.
What are Lace Wigs?
Lace wigs are a type of wig that features a wig base constructed wholly or partly from sheer lace. Hair strands are then tied into the lace by hand, one tiny knot at a time, to keep them in place. The lace mimics the appearance of the skin, which makes it seem like the hairs are growing from your scalp. This makes lace wigs incredibly natural-looking.
There are several types of lace wigs, including but not limited to:
- Lace front wigs: Lace front wigs (sometimes called front lace wigs) have a strip of lace across the front of the wig that covers your whole front hairline, from ear to ear. The lace usually reaches 4 or 6 inches back from your hairline (sold as 13x4 or 13x6), so it stops well before your crown. Sellers also call them lace frontal wigs or frontal wigs, so check the lace size in the listing to see how much lace you’re getting. The back portion of the wig is typically wefted, like regular wigs. The placement of the lace gives you the freedom to part the front of the wig in any direction you prefer, as far back as the lace goes.
- Full lace wigs don't have any wefts. Instead, they are entirely made of lace. That gives you total freedom, so you can style and part your wig in any way you choose.
- 360 lace wigs: 360 lace wigs have lace around the perimeter of the head. They enable wearers to pull their hair up into low and high ponytails that look deceptively natural.
- T-Part Lace Wigs: T-part wigs have lace around the hairline and down the middle or side to allow wearers to part their hair naturally. The wig has less lace than a lace front wig and doesn't allow you to change up your part. For instance, a T-part wig with a middle part cannot be parted on the side.
- Closure wigs: Closure wigs have a small square of lace, often 4x4 or 5x5 inches, at the front of the head where your part sits. The lace ends before your temples, so you can part the hair in the middle or a little to one side, but a ponytail can show the wefts.
Note: Synthetic wigs and human hair wigs are available with a wig lace cap construction. Wig wearers should review the quality of the lace fronts in their local beauty supply store and determine which style meets their needs.
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How Are Lace Wigs and Regular Wigs Different?
The difference between a lace wig and a regular wig is all in the construction. Lace wigs are either partially or entirely made from lace. As a result, they tend to look more natural at the hairline and the part.
However, the lace takes more work to put on. You’ll need to trim it, and unless your wig is glueless, you’ll need to secure it at your hairline with wig glue, wig tape, or a spray made for wigs.
And because the lace recreates the look of your scalp, lace wigs have more parting and styling versatility than regular wigs. By comparison, a regular, non-lace wig has a solid edge at the hairline, so you can’t part it or pull it back as freely.
Human Hair vs. Synthetic Lace Wigs
Lace front wigs, full lace wigs, and the other types above all come with either human hair or synthetic hair. The lace works the same way on both, so the type of hair is what changes how you can style the wig, how long it lasts, and what it costs.
A human hair lace wig can be heat styled and colored, and you can treat it a lot like your own hair. It lasts longer, but it costs more; a human hair lace front often costs about $150 to $390.
A synthetic lace wig costs less and comes already styled, so it’s ready to wear out of the box. However, regular synthetic fiber can’t take a flat iron or curling iron unless the wig is labeled heat-friendly, and hair dye doesn’t work on it.
How Long Do Lace Wigs Last?
Lace wigs can be pricey, so naturally, most people want to know what to expect from their investment. With proper care, a human hair lace wig you wear every day usually lasts about nine months to a year. If you take breaks or switch out your wigs regularly, a lace wig can last substantially longer, and Cancer Research UK says real hair wigs usually last one to three years. A synthetic lace wig wears out faster, usually in about three to nine months if you wear it most days.
So, what wears a lace wig out? Usually it’s the lace and the knots, not the hair. Lace is thin and delicate, so it can tear when it’s peeled off your skin or snagged with a comb or scissors.
The tiny knots that hold each hair to the lace also loosen as you wear the wig. Wig makers warn that conditioner on the lace loosens those knots faster, so keep conditioner on the hair strands and off the lace.
Heat is the other big one for synthetic wigs. Hot water, a blow dryer, or a flat iron can change synthetic fiber for good, and the frizz or kinks it leaves won’t wash out. Only use heat on a wig labeled heat-friendly, and stay under the temperature its maker gives. Our guide on how to wash a wig covers the rest of the care.
Original Curl Centric chart
Is your lace wig wearing out?
Find the row that matches what’s happening to your wig, then start with the last column. The first two are normal and easy to fix. The last two mean your wig is near the end of its life.
| What it is | What you notice | Why it happens | What to do first |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buildup | The hair feels dry or stiff, or it tangles at the nape, but the lace and hairline look fine. | Sweat, oil, and styling products build up on the hair between washes. | Wash the wig the way its care directions say, and keep conditioner on the hair strands and off the lace. |
| Lifting lace | The lace pops up at your temples a few days into a glued or taped install. | Sweat and the oil on your skin loosen glue and tape. That’s normal, and it doesn’t mean the wig is worn out. | Take the wig down with the remover made for your adhesive, then clean your skin and secure it again the way the label says. |
| Loose knots | More hairs than usual in your comb, coming from the lace at the hairline or the part. | The tiny knots that hold each hair to the lace loosen as you wear the wig, and conditioner on the lace loosens them faster. | Comb gently and keep conditioner off the lace. Once you can see thin spots in the lace, start planning for your next wig. |
| Torn lace | A rip or hole in the lace, often near the ear tabs or along the front edge. | Lace is thin and delicate, and peeling it off your skin or snagging it with a comb or scissors tears it. | Don’t put glue or tape over the torn spot. A tear along the front hairline is hard to hide, so it’s usually time to replace the wig. |
| Heat damage on a synthetic wig | Frizzy, crunchy, or kinked ends that don’t smooth out after you wash the wig. | Hot water, a blow dryer, or a flat iron changed the synthetic fiber for good. | Heat damage won’t wash out, so plan to replace the wig. Next time, only use heat on a wig labeled heat-friendly. |
If your skin is red, itchy, swollen, or breaking out where the glue or tape sits, that isn’t your wig wearing out. Take the wig off with remover and stop using that product. Get medical help right away if your face swells or you have trouble breathing.
How Long Can a Lace Front Wig Stay On Your Head?
Keep in mind that how long your wig lasts and how long it stays on your head are two different things. A wig can be worn through many installs, but each install only stays on for so long, and that depends on how your lace front is held on.
A glueless lace front comes off every night. One that’s glued or taped down usually stays on for several days, according to a 2023 dermatology review, and a lace front sewn onto braids can stay on for several weeks.
Six weeks is a common rule of thumb among stylists, but it isn’t a medical limit. For sewn-in styles, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says two or three months at most, and a UK hospital dermatology leaflet says eight weeks or sooner.
However, take your wig down sooner if your scalp hurts, stings, or itches, or if your skin breaks out where the glue or tape sits. That’s not normal. Our guide on how long a wig install lasts goes through each method and the signs to watch for.
How Do You Put on a Lace Front Wig?
Wearing a lace front wig can be daunting if you're a beginner. But with preparation and patience, you'll get the hang of things in no time. So in this section, we'll break down all the steps it takes to apply a lace front wig like a pro! For a deeper walkthrough, including how to braid your hair down without stressing your edges, read our guide on how to put on a lace front wig.
Prepare the Wig
Before you start your installation process, you'll have to ensure your wig is ready to wear. Trim the excess lace around the hairline. Use a sharp pair of scissors, and be careful not to cut too close to the hairline.
Otherwise, you may damage the hairline and make the wig unwearable. You should also take this time to detangle your wig and get rid of any knots.
Secure Your Natural Hair
The key to getting a natural-looking wig installation is to create a smooth, flat base. One of the best ways to do this is to cornrow your hair flat against your scalp. Keep the braids loose, especially around your edges. The AAD says that if you feel pain or get a headache while your hair is being braided, your braids are too tight, and tight braids can lead to hair loss.
Then, tuck the ends of the braids into a low bun and secure them with a few bobby pins. But if you can't braid, feel free to twist your hair or gather it into a bun at the nape of your neck.
Put on a Wig Cap
Once you've created your foundation, slide a wig cap or two over your hair. That will flatten your natural hair even more and give you a better fit. It'll also create a buffer between your hair and the wig, which helps protect your natural strands.
If you can, choose a satin or satin-lined wig cap. That UK hospital leaflet notes that satin is less likely than cotton or nylon to rub against your hair or soak up its moisture.
Prepare Your Hairline
Unless you plan on wearing a glueless wig, you'll likely have to use an adhesive during your installation. Unfortunately, leftover lotion, styling products, and the natural oils produced by your skin can interfere with the bond.
So, clean the skin where the lace will sit the way your glue or tape directions say. Use rubbing alcohol only if the directions call for it, and skip it, along with any adhesive, if your skin is irritated or broken.
Apply Your Adhesive
Next, apply an adhesive around the perimeter. You can choose from wig tape, a holding spray or gel that’s labeled for wig installation, or wig glue. Skip regular hairspray, though. It isn’t made to sit on your skin, and the maker of Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray warns that it can irritate your skin when it’s used to secure a wig.
After you've chosen your adhesive, apply it right in front of your hairline, on your skin and off your own hair. Then wait as long as the label says before you press the lace down. Many glues need to turn tacky first.
If you’re trying a new glue or tape, check the label for patch-test directions first. Some bonding glues contain latex, and latex in hair glue has caused severe allergic reactions, so choose a latex-free glue if you’re allergic. Get medical help right away if your face swells or you have trouble breathing.
Put on Your Wig
Grab the wig and gently slide it onto your head. Adjust the wig so it lines up with your natural hairline (without touching your hair). If your wig has ear tabs, ensure they are in the correct position.
If your wig comes with straps, adjust them so your wig fits comfortably and doesn't slip around. For even more stability, add a few bobby pins or wig clips around the perimeter of the wig.
Dry the Adhesive
Once your wig is secure and properly aligned, use your fingers or a comb to gently press the lace into the adhesive. Next, tie a satin scarf or elastic band gently around your hairline, and leave it on for as long as the product directions say. It should press the lace flat without pulling on your edges or giving you a headache. After your time is up, carefully check the hairline to ensure your adhesive is dry.
Style Your Wig
Now that you've gotten the installation out of the way, your wig is ready to style! Depending on the material and construction, you can style your wig however you like. Just refrain from pulling on the wig too much, as it may loosen your adhesive.
Take Your Wig Off Gently
When it’s time to take your wig off, never peel or pull glued lace. That UK hospital leaflet warns that glue pulled off your skin can rip out the delicate hairs at your edges.
Instead, soak the edge of the lace with the remover made for your glue or tape, and wait a few minutes. Let the lace lift on its own before you move the wig. If it doesn’t lift, add more remover and wait a little longer.
What are the Pros and Cons of Lace Wigs?
Having learned about lace wigs, you may be asking yourself if they're the right choice for you and your hair. The short answer is that lace wigs are an excellent option for some, but they aren't for everybody.
So in this section, we'll look at the benefits and drawbacks of wearing lace wigs.
Pros
- Lace wigs can be parted and styled in more ways than regular wigs.
- When correctly applied, lace wigs look incredibly natural.
- They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and lengths.
- Lace wigs give your natural hair a break from heat styling, detangling, and other styling-related damage.
Cons
- Lace wigs are typically more expensive than other styles.
- Lace is extremely delicate, so lace wigs are prone to ripping.
- Applying a lace wig can be a difficult and time-consuming process.
- Low-quality lace can be scratchy and irritate your scalp.
- Some people may find lace wigs uncomfortable or heavy.
- Glue that’s peeled off instead of dissolved can pull out the hair at your edges.
- Some bonding glues contain latex, which can cause a serious allergic reaction.
What's the Difference Between a Lace Wig and a Regular Wig?
The primary difference between a lace wig and a regular wig is the construction of the base. This difference in construction leads to greater styling versatility and a more natural look for lace wigs than regular wigs. Lace wigs are constructed with a sheer lace base that blends into your skin.
The hair strands in a lace wig are individually attached to the lace, providing a realistic appearance as if the hair is growing from the scalp. In contrast, a regular wig is made without lace, so it lacks the natural-looking hairline and styling flexibility that lace wigs offer.
Which Is Better Full Lace or Lace Front?
The choice between a full lace wig and a lace front wig depends on individual preferences and needs. Full lace wigs offer more styling versatility, as they are made entirely of lace, allowing for various parting options and updo hairstyles. On the other hand, lace front wigs feature a lace panel at the front, providing a natural hairline and some styling flexibility. However, lace front wigs are generally more affordable and easier to wear than full lace wigs.
Can You Sleep in a Lace Front Wig?
It depends on how your lace front is held on. Take a glueless lace front off before bed, since wig makers advise against sleeping in their wigs, and the friction between the wig and your pillow can lead to matting, tangling, and shedding. If your wig is glued, taped, or sewn down, you'll sleep in it, so wrap your hairline in a satin scarf and cover the wig with a satin bonnet. That keeps the lace flat and stops the hair from rubbing on your pillowcase.
What Is the Purpose of Lace Wig?
The purpose of a lace wig is to create a natural-looking and versatile hair option for individuals who wish to experiment with different hairstyles, protect their natural hair, or manage hair loss issues. The lace base of these wigs mimics the appearance of the scalp, making it appear as if the hair is growing directly from the wearer's head.
This leads to a more authentic look than conventional wigs can achieve. Moreover, lace wigs grant numerous styling possibilities, enabling the wearer to change their look while sparing their natural hair from the stress of daily styling.
How Long Do Lace Wigs Last?
With proper care, a human hair lace wig you wear every day typically lasts about nine months to a year. The wig's lifespan can be extended if you wear it now and then or alternate it with other wigs, and some last up to three years.
On the other hand, synthetic lace wigs usually last about three to nine months if you wear them most days. Factors such as the quality of the wig, care routine, and how often it is worn can impact the longevity of a lace wig. How long one install stays on your head is a separate question: glued lace usually holds for several days, and a wig sewn onto braids can stay on for several weeks.
How Do Lace Front Wigs Stay On?
Most lace front wigs are secured to the wearer's head with an adhesive. These can include wig glue, wig tape, or a holding spray or gel labeled for wig installation, applied around the perimeter of the hairline. The lace front wig is then carefully aligned with the natural hairline and pressed onto the adhesive. Once the adhesive dries and bonds the lace to the skin, the wig stays securely in place. Glueless lace fronts stay on with an elastic strap, combs, or a wig grip instead, and some lace fronts are sewn onto braids.
What Do I Need to Install a Lace Front Wig?
You will need a few essential supplies to install a lace front wig. A wig cap is necessary to provide a flat surface for the wig, and an adhesive (wig glue, wig tape, or a holding spray or gel made for wigs) is used to securely attach the wig, unless your wig is glueless. Scissors are required for trimming excess lace, while a comb or brush is useful for detangling and styling. Lastly, you'll need the skin cleanser your adhesive's directions call for, plus the remover made for your glue or tape for when it's time to take the wig off.
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Whether you're after a bold new look or just want to give your natural hair a break, lace wigs are a convenient and natural-looking option. And with so many types and styles available, finding the perfect choice is easier than ever!
Just make sure you purchase your lace wig from a reputable seller and do plenty of research beforehand. We hope that the information we've covered today has given you some insight into what lace wigs are and how to wear them.
