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What Is a Synthetic Lace Front Wig and Styling Synthetic Wigs

Published: Apr 16, 2023 by Kenneth Byrd · This post may contain affiliate links

Three African American friends wearing human hair lace wigs with and without bangs covering their forehead.

Since you’ve stumbled across this page, it’s safe to say that synthetic lace front wigs have piqued your interest. Whether you want to know what they are or are trying to decide if they’re right for you, we’ve got you covered!

So, what is a synthetic lace front wig? How do you make synthetic hair look more natural? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ins and outs of synthetic wigs.

We’ll break down the good, the bad, and the ugly and answer a few of the most frequently asked questions. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s jump right in.

Table of Contents

  • 1 What Is a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 1.1 Which Is Better: Synthetic or Real Human Hair Wigs?
    • 1.2 Are Synthetic Wigs Good?
  • 2 What Are the Disadvantages of Synthetic Wigs?
  • 3 How to Make a Synthetic Wig Look Real
    • 3.1 Reduce the Shine
    • 3.2 Cut and Style Your Lace Front Wig
    • 3.3 Add Concealer to the Part
    • 3.4 Add Accessories
    • 3.5 Mess Your Hair Up a Little Bit
    • 3.6 How Long Can You Wear a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.7 Can You Sleep in a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.8 Can You Pluck a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.9 Can You Reuse a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.10 How Long Does a Synthetic Lace Front Wig Last?
    • 3.11 How Much Does a Synthetic Lace Front Wig Cost?
    • 3.12 Can You Wash a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.13 Can You Swim in a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?
    • 3.14 Related Articles

What Is a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

A synthetic lace front wig is a type of wig that features a patch of lace that extends from ear to ear. The lace sits on the top half of the wig and extends from the hairline to your crown.

It is typically flesh-toned, helping it mimic the look and texture of human skin. Individual strands of hair are then inserted into the lace, which makes it look like they’re sprouting from your scalp.

Synthetic lace wigs have lace that extends down to the wearer's forehead that often needs to be cut and blended with your skin.
Synthetic lace wigs have lace that extends down to the wearer's forehead that often needs to be cut and blended with your skin.

Because the lace looks like your skin, you’ll have plenty of room to play around with styling. You can switch between a side and middle part and even pull the hair back into a ponytail. The rest of the wig is usually made from a more durable but less wearable material like mesh or hair wefts.

Close-up showing synthetic hair lace. Human hair counterparts look similar but have higher durability.
Close-up showing synthetic hair lace. Human hair counterparts look similar but have higher durability.

There are two types of lace front wigs: human hair and synthetic. Synthetic hair wigs are derived from synthetic materials, the most notable of which are nylon and acrylic. These materials go through a ton of processing to take on a texture similar to hair.

Which Is Better: Synthetic or Real Human Hair Wigs?

Whether you think a synthetic or human hair wig is better ultimately boils down to your personal preferences. After all, there are high-quality synthetic hair wigs and low-quality human hair wigs. But on the whole, human hair wigs are usually considered the better of the two.

Human hair wigs look more natural and last significantly longer. The hair is softer and has a realistic shine that’s difficult to replicate with synthetic fibers. You can also customize a human hair wig to a greater extent with heat styling and hair dye.

Three friends in a local park wearing curly lace wigs made from synthetic hair.

Are Synthetic Wigs Good?

Although human hair is the higher quality choice, there are some benefits to going the synthetic route. In addition to being less expensive than human hair, synthetic fibers are manmade and come in a wide range of colors, lengths, and textures.

Synthetic hair is also good at maintaining its shape, which can shorten your styling time and reduce the amount of maintenance you’ll have to do. And the benefits don’t end there!

Synthetic hair wigs are lighter weight than human hair wigs and help keep you cooler.

Another reason synthetic hair is a great choice is that it doesn’t react the same way that human hair does. So while your natural hair may become frizzy on a hot and humid day, synthetic hair is less likely to react.

Three cousins wearing synthetic lace front wigs are outdoors taking photos after meeting for lunch on a spring day.

What Are the Disadvantages of Synthetic Wigs?

Synthetic hair wigs have their benefits, but these wigs aren’t going to work for everybody. In this section, we’ll break down some of the main advantages and disadvantages of wearing synthetic hair wigs. Use the information to help you determine if they can meet your needs.

  • Some aren’t heat resistant - While some synthetic hair wigs can withstand the high temperatures of hot tools like flat irons and curling irons, some cannot. So, depending on the wig you purchase, your styling options may be limited.
  • They’re less durable - Unfortunately, synthetic fibers aren’t as resilient as human hair. They’re prone to tangling and can become fuzzy and matted quickly. Because they aren’t able to hold up to the same wear and tear, synthetic hair wigs last for about half the lifespan of a human hair wig.
  • Some are too shiny - Some shine is good, but too much can leave your hair looking fake and plasticky. Most synthetic hair wigs have an unnatural shine that tips people off to the fact that the wig isn't real hair.
  • You can’t dye them - Unlike human hair wigs, synthetic hair wigs cannot be dyed or bleached. And while there are alternatives, such as fabric dye, markers, or paint, the results are unpredictable, unrealistic, and inconsistent.
  • They can cause allergies - Synthetic hair wigs are made from potentially harsh, artificial materials. These can be irritating to some people, particularly if they have sensitive skin. As a result, some wig wearers can experience redness, itching, or rashes on their scalps.

How to Make a Synthetic Wig Look Real

Wearing a synthetic wig can be a fun and easy way to switch up your hairdo. Although there’s a lot to love, synthetic hair wigs can look fake and make it obvious that you’re wearing a hairpiece. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to make your synthetic wig look like it's grown from your scalp.

How To Make A Synthetic Lace Wig Look Natural

Reduce the Shine

As mentioned earlier, synthetic hair wigs can be excessively shiny, making them look artificial. The good news is that this is an easy problem to fix.

Before wearing your wig, sprinkle a little dry shampoo into the hair. The shampoo will coat the fibers and give them a duller, more realistic finish. Don’t have dry shampoo? You can use baby powder instead!

Black girls wearing synthetic lace front wigs have a laugh while they enjoy a summer day.

Cut and Style Your Lace Front Wig

Most synthetic hair wigs come pre-styled, but you can cut and style them to better fit your facial shape and personal style. To do that, put your wig on and examine it in a mirror.

Turn your head from side to side to figure out how to make it more flattering. Then, use a sharp pair of hair shears to carefully trim and shape the wig to your desired shape.

Add Concealer to the Part

Some synthetic hair wigs come with a visible part that exposes the wig cap. Often, the wig cap doesn’t match your natural skin tone and can make it obvious that you’re wearing a wig. So if your part is noticeable, brush a bit of concealer onto it. That will make it look like a part of your scalp rather than a wig. 

A family of three sisters wearing synthetic lace wigs embraces for a fun family photo.

Add Accessories

One of the easiest ways to make your synthetic wig look more natural is to add a few accessories. Scarves, headbands, hair clips, and even hats can help blend your wig into your natural hairline and create a more realistic look.

Just make sure that your accessory fits well and doesn’t have any sharp or jagged pieces. Otherwise, it may damage your wig.

Mess Your Hair Up a Little Bit

The most important tip for making your synthetic wig look natural is to mess things up a bit. Human hair isn’t perfect. It moves and frizzes and sometimes has a mind of its own!

By comparison, synthetic hair wigs are sometimes stiff and look almost too perfect. So before you put on your wig, shake it out. Then, when styling it, use your fingers to fluff and tousle it a bit to create a more realistic texture.

How Long Can You Wear a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

Synthetic lace front wigs can be worn for several weeks at a time and can last for months or years if you take care of them properly. How long the wig lasts depends on the adhesive you use, your hair's growth rate, and your scalp's oiliness. We recommend removing your wig and cleaning your natural hair and scalp at least once every two weeks.

To maximize your wig's longevity, maintain a consistent cleaning and styling routine, store the wig properly when not in use, and protect it from heat and friction. Combining these best practices will help you enjoy the polished look of your synthetic lace front wig for an extended period, making it a cost-effective and versatile option in your hair wardrobe.

Can You Sleep in a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

We don't recommend sleeping in a synthetic lace front wig because it can cause friction between the wig and your hairline, leading to breakage, thinning edges, or other hair damage. It can also cause tangling and matting of the wig hair. It is best to remove the wig before sleeping and store it properly.

Can You Pluck a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

It's possible to pluck a synthetic lace front wig, but be very careful to avoid damaging the wig. Use tweezers to pluck the hair in a natural pattern. Plucking can create a more natural hairline and reduce the density of the wig hair for a more natural look. However, excessive plucking can cause bald spots and damage.

Can You Reuse a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

Reusing a wig can save money and reduce waste, but it's important to ensure the wig is in good condition and properly cleaned before each use. After removing the wig, clean it, and store it on a wig stand to maintain its shape and prevent tangling. Regularly brushing and detangling the wig hair can also prolong its lifespan.

Three African ladies wearing lace front synthetic hair strands on a cool winter day.

How Long Does a Synthetic Lace Front Wig Last?

With proper care and maintenance, an average synthetic lace front wig can last up to six months. The frequency of wig wearing, exposure to heat and sunlight, and the use of styling products also affect the lifespan of the wig. Regular washing, conditioning, and properly storing the wig can extend its lifespan.

How Much Does a Synthetic Lace Front Wig Cost?

The cost of a synthetic lace front wig varies depending on the brand, style, and quality. The price range for synthetic lace front wigs can start from $20 and go up to $300 or more. Higher-priced wigs often have higher-quality hair fibers and more intricate designs, while lower-priced wigs may have fewer features and less durability.

Can You Wash a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

Synthetic lace front wigs can be washed using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Following the manufacturer's instructions for washing the wig is essential to prevent damage or tangling. Overwashing or using harsh products can damage the wig fibers and shorten the wig's lifespan. Rinse the wig thoroughly and dry it properly to avoid mold or mildew growth.

Can You Swim in a Synthetic Lace Front Wig?

Swimming in a synthetic lace front wig is not recommended. The chemicals in chlorinated and saltwater can damage the wig fibers and cause tangling or matting. Moreover, the water can loosen the adhesive and cause the wig to shift or slip off. It's best to remove the wig before swimming and to wear a swim cap.

Related Articles

  • Can You Put Mousse on a Synthetic Wig?
  • Can You Dye a Synthetic Wig with Regular Hair Dye?
  • How Long Do Lace Fronts Last?

Whether your hair needs a break from styling or you want to explore new hairstyles, a synthetic lace wig might be just what you need. Wigs are protective, inexpensive, and come in a wide variety of lengths, colors, and styles.

With the proper care and maintenance, a synthetic lace front wig can last for months or even years. So why not take the plunge and try out that new synthetic wig you’ve had your eye on? If you do, we hope that the information we’ve gone over today is just what you were looking to find!

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About Kenneth Byrd

Kenneth Byrd, with a BS in Accounting and Management Information Systems and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has over 15 years of experience and is a recognized authority in hair care. Co-founder of Curl Centric® and Natural Hair Box, Kenneth has dedicated himself to promoting ethical and scientifically-backed hair care practices. Rigorous editorial guidelines, industry recognitions, and features in numerous media outlets evidence his expertise. Kenneth’s commitment to transparency, quality, and empowerment has positioned him as a trusted voice in the field, empowering readers to confidently embrace their natural beauty.

Kira Byrd wearing short pixie cut

Hey, I'm Kira!

Curl Centric is a curly hair blog created by husband-and-wife team Kenneth and Kira Byrd. With over 15 years of experience and a community of 10,000+ daily readers, we share trusted techniques to help you embrace and care for your natural curls with confidence.

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