Many individuals choose to wear wigs to manage thinning hair or to protect and maintain the health of their natural hair. With so many wig options, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, especially if you’re just getting started.
However, two popular types of wigs often spark confusion, which are closure and frontal wigs. They both offer a natural-looking hairline and versatility when it comes to styling. Yet, they are different in terms of construction, application, and overall look.
Choosing between a closure and a frontal can seem daunting, especially with so many opinions online. However, as someone who has worked with wigs for years, styling them, installing them, and answering every possible question, I can tell you this: the right choice depends on more than just looks.
What is a closure wig?
A closure wig is a type of wig that features a small piece, typically made of lace or silk, at the crown of the head. This closure piece mimics the natural scalp and provides a realistic hairline. Closure wigs are perfect for those who want a natural-looking hairline without the commitment of a full lace wig. They are also simple to wear.
What is a frontal wig?
A frontal is a type of lace piece that covers the entire front hairline, stretching from one ear to the other. It usually measures 13 inches across and extends about 4-6 inches backward, giving you coverage at the front of your head. It’s often attached to hair bundles, but it can also be used to create a full wig. A properly installed frontal can look exactly like your natural hairline, especially when it’s laid well.
What’s the difference between a frontal and a closure?
1. Coverage:
A closure covers only a small portion at the front of your head, usually the middle part or a natural side part. Most closures come in 4×4, 5×5, or 6×6 lace sizes, which means they give you enough space to part your hair but not enough to do much else. It sits right in the center or slightly to the side and is perfect for people who like to stick to the same hairstyle most of the time.
Frontal wigs, on the other hand, give full coverage of your front hairline, which means you can part it anywhere you like: middle, side, or even do a slick-back look. It gives the illusion that the hair is growing directly from your scalp.
2. Styling:
Closures are awesome for people who like to keep it simple. You can wear a middle part, maybe a side part, but you won’t be able to pull the hair back into a ponytail or change the parting often. A free part closure doesn’t have a defined part, which means you can part it anywhere you like, giving you more flexibility. A middle part closure comes with a clean part down the centre for that classic, balanced look. Then there’s the three-part closure, which has preset parts on the middle, left, and right sides that can be changed as you like without anyone being the wiser.
Frontals are more versatile. It gives room to create various styles with the wigs or hair extensions. A frontal can be worn as you please because it mimics the natural hairline.
3. Installation and Maintenance:
Closure wigs are beginner-friendly. They don’t need much work to install and can even be worn glueless. They’re perfect for everyday wear, especially if you want something simple to throw on and go. Less lace = less stress.
Frontals require more effort to install. Most times, they need to be glued or melted down to lie flat, especially if you want that natural hairline look. Due to the size of the lace, they also need a bit more maintenance, from reapplying glue and restyling baby hairs to touching up lace tint. They look amazing but are a little high-maintenance.
4. Cost:
Closures are more affordable. They use less lace and take less time to install, which means you’ll save on both the wig and the salon fee. If you’re on a budget or just starting your wig journey, a closure is a smart and stylish choice.
Frontals are more expensive because they offer more lace, more versatility, and more of a natural finish. They also take longer to install. So while they’re gorgeous, they’re an investment.
5. Hair Protection:
Closures are gentler on your natural hair. This is because they don’t require glue and sit neatly over your cornrows; they’re a great protective style that won’t stress your edges. You can wear them regularly without worrying about damage.
Frontals, especially if they’re installed with glue, can weaken your hairline over time if not done carefully. If you’re wearing one regularly, it’s super important to give your edges a break and install them the right way.
Picking the right one for you
Team Closures:
If you’re new to wigs, prefer simple styles like a middle or side part, don’t want anything too high-maintenance, and are trying to stick to a budget while still protecting your natural hair, then a closure wig is your best bet.
Team Frontals:
Frontals are high maintenance and more expensive than closures. However, you can go for them if you enjoy changing up your look with different styles. They give the most natural-looking hairline and are perfect if you’re going for bold, sleek styles.
At Hair With Blessing, I always remind my clients that it’s not just about what looks good; it’s about what feels good, what fits into your life, and what lets you move through your day with confidence. Whether you’re going to work, school, church, or date night, your hair should feel effortless and beautiful.
Still unsure about which one to choose? Send me a message, and I’ll help you figure out the best choice based on your budget and style.
