Lace front wigs, such as the platinum blonde wigs from Kendra’s Boutique, are specifically constructed to look gorgeous and natural. The human hair and delicate lace make it easy to pull off a flawless, glam look, but those two “secret ingredients” require special attention to ensure longevity of wear.
What Is a Lace Front Wig?
A lace front wig has a special lace panel at the front of the wig cap. It extends from ear to ear, like our 13x4 lace frontal wig. The lace used has varying degrees of transparency, such as fine Swiss lace, transparent, or super-sheer HD lace.
Individual strands of hair are pulled through the lace and hand-knotted. This gives the illusion of hair growing naturally from the hairline. A quality lace panel seems to “melt” into the skin for a flawless look.
Average Lifespan of a Lace Front Wig
If worn daily, a lace front using synthetic hair can last between 3 and 6 months. One made with quality human hair can have a lifespan of up to 18 months.
You can wear a human hair lace front for two to six weeks before it needs some professional maintenance (like the knots being tightened). All of this will depend on how well-cared-for the wig is.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Lace Front Wig
Hair Type and Quality
Wig quality matters. Human hair lace fronts or Remy hair wigs will last longer than synthetic lace front wigs. Human hair, like what Kendra’s Boutique uses for products like our HD lace closure wigs and clip-in seamless hair extensions, responds well to gentle combing and brushing (from the bottom up) and careful use of styling products and tools.
Lace and Cap Construction
The lace is what “makes” the frontal, melting into the hairline and your skin tone. Proper handling is critical to prevent tearing it.
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When using heat-styling tools, protect the cap and lace, starting about an inch from the scalp.
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Handle the lace gently when removing the wig and adhesive.
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HD lace is especially delicate and may need to be replaced every 3-4 months, versus other kinds.
Adhesive Use and Reapplication
A glueless wig can be removed each day to extend its life. If you opt for adhesive, be careful in removing it for a fresh installation. Ensure that the glue is fully loosened before removing the wig, lifting it with your fingers and pulling gently, from ear to ear.
Use an appropriate solvent on the lace to clean it for its next installation.
Frequency of Wear
Wearing your wig every day (versus occasionally) shortens its lifespan. It can also affect scalp health, especially with sensitive skin. Dermatologists recommend giving your head a breather by removing the wig regularly.
However, if you do opt for daily wear, handle the hair gently by using a wide-toothed comb or brush, always working from the ends up.
Keep it tangle-and-tug free by wearing a silk or satin bonnet at night to protect it. When you remove your wig, store it on a wig stand, away from direct sunlight.
Daily Care and Maintenance
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Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner every 8-10 wears: gently massage the hair, avoiding the lace as much as possible.
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Detangle the hair using a wide comb, working from the ends up. Avoid tugging as much as possible.
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Avoid high heat from styling tools; use a heat protectant spray.
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Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wear a silk/satin bonnet to protect the hair.
How to Care for a Lace Front Wig Properly
Washing Your Lace Front Wig
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Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Swish the hair in warm water, avoiding the lace as much as you can.
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Rinse completely, and gently squeeze out the excess.
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Let it air dry on a mannequin head.
Wearing Your Wig Correctly
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With a new wig, trim the extra lace so that it’s about ⅛ from the hairline. Use a zig-zag motion.
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Either braid your natural hair flat or put on a wig cap for a solid base.
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For a natural look, use four fingers above the eyebrows for the right position.
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Secure the wig either with clips or glue. Adhesive should be applied in sections, just behind the natural hairline; let it dry for a minute or two to get “tacky.” Use the back of a comb to firmly “press” the lace onto it.
Styling Without Damage
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Always use a heat protectant spray with styling tools.
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Avoid high heat on tools.
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When using flat irons or curling wands, start about an inch from the scalp.
Proper Wig Storage
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Detangle the wig before storing it. Use a comb or brush and gently work from the ends up.
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Store it on a wig stand or mannequin head, in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
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Cover with a silk bag to keep dust away.
Correct Fitting and Adjustment
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Prep your own hair first. Either braid it flat or don a wig cap.
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Place the wig, the front lace at the hairline. The ideal spot is four fingers above the brows.
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Gently adjust for comfort, avoiding too much tugging on the lace. Secure the wig with clips or glue.
Rotating Between Wigs
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Your lace front wig will last longer if you give it a rest every few days. This prevents sweat buildup and damage from styling. Rotate between more than one wig to extend the wig's lifespan.
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Clean, brush, and restyle the wig before storing it.
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Maintain the shape by storing your wig on a stand and using a breathable cover to keep it dust-free.
Tips to Make a Lace Front Wig Last Longer
To get the longest wear from a lace front wig, follow these tips.
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Keep washing to a minimum. Eight to ten wears is a good guideline.
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Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
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Avoid heat damage by lowering the temperature on styling tools.
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Handle lace gently to prevent stretching or tearing it.
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Wear a protective satin bonnet at night.
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Store the wig on a wig stand, away from sunlight.
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Keep up proper maintenance with a stylist who will tighten up the knots as needed and address split ends.
Final Thoughts on Lace Front Wig Longevity
A human hair lace front wig is an instant style elevator! The perfect wig allows you to change up your look, from the office to the club. Get the most out of your investment by giving it proper care.
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Handle the hair and the lace front gently. Don't rub or tug the lace, and brush the hair from the ends up.
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Use a quality glue, like medical-grade adhesive.
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Keep your scalp, wig, and natural hair healthy by letting the wig "breathe" on a wig stand away from sunlight; try not to wear it every day. Rotate wigs to maintain their looks.
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Use sulfate-free products. Keep washing to a minimum, and use low temperatures on heat-styling tools.
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Visit your stylist for regular maintenance to prevent shedding and freshen up the hair.
With proper care, you can make your wig last for more than a year!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sleep in a lace front wig?
You can, but it’s not recommended over time. Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wear a satin bonnet to protect the hair from tangling.
How do you wash a lace front wig?
Minimize washing; every 8-10 wears is a good guideline. Don’t wash it in the shower; remove it for washing. Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Gently handle the hair, rinse, squeeze out excess water, and let it air dry. Avoid getting the lace wet as much as possible.
Why is my lace front wig shedding?
Excessive shedding is a sign that the knots holding the hair to the base are loosened. In between maintenance sessions with a stylist, don’t let the wig soak in water. Avoid applying conditioner to the roots. Keep styling tools on low heat.
Can I swim while wearing a lace front wig?
Submersion in water or extended exposure to the ocean or a pool isn’t great for the adhesive or the lace in the wig. It’s smart to wear a swim cap.
How long does glue last on a lace front wig?
In general, the glue on something like HD lace frontal wigs will last 2-4 weeks. It depends on the quality and adhesive type, the oiliness of the scalp, lifestyle (sweating from exercise, for example), and the like.
