Hair extensions have become an essential part of modern hairstyling, offering endless possibilities for achieving the perfect look. Among the most popular options are closures and frontals. These hairpieces provide a seamless, natural appearance and can be styled in various ways to suit individual preferences. Understanding the differences between closures and frontals is crucial for making the right choice to enhance your hairstyle.
What is a Hair Frontal?
A hair frontal is a versatile hairpiece designed to mimic the natural hairline. It features a lace base that stretches from ear to ear, allowing for a seamless blend with your natural hair. This makes frontals ideal for various hairstyles, providing a realistic appearance that can enhance your overall look.
Features of a Hair Frontal
Hair frontals come with specific characteristics that set them apart from other hairpieces.
Base
A hair frontal typically has a lace base, which is crucial for creating a natural hairline illusion. The lace runs across the front of the scalp, mimicking the forehead’s appearance and allowing for versatile styling options.
Strands on the Base
The hair strands are manually knotted into the lace base, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the rest of the wig or hair extension. The quality of these strands significantly affects the frontal’s durability and natural look.
Types of Hair Frontals
Different types of hair frontals cater to various needs and preferences, primarily distinguished by the size of their base and the type of lace used.
Size of the Base
Hair frontals come in various sizes to cater to different styling needs:
- 13 x 4: A standard size with a 13-inch width and 4-inch length.
- 13 x 5: Offers a 13-inch width and 5-inch length for more coverage.
- 13 x 6: Provides a 13-inch width and 6-inch length for maximum versatility.
Types of Base (Lace Material)
The lace material of a frontal is vital for its durability and natural appearance:
- Swiss Lace: Durable and offers a natural look.
- French Lace: Less durable and less natural-looking.
- HD Lace: Highly durable and realistic, though more expensive.
Texture of the Hair Frontal
Hair frontals are available in various textures to match your natural hair or desired style:
- Straight: Features pin-straight strands.
- Wavy: Includes wavy hair strands.
- Curly: Comes with spirals or ringlets.
- Kinky: Mimics African or African American tight curl patterns.
What is a Hair Closure?
A hair closure is designed to mimic the natural parting of hair. Unlike frontals, closures do not cover the entire front hairline but instead cover a small portion at the top of the head. This makes closures ideal for achieving a natural-looking parting and completing the look of a wig or hair extension.
Features of a Hair Closure
Hair closures possess unique features that make them distinct from frontals and other hairpieces.
Base
A hair closure also has a lace base, but it is smaller and usually square-shaped, located at the center of the extension. The base blends with the scalp to create the illusion of a natural parting.
Types of Base
The base material of a closure affects its appearance and durability:
- Silk Base: Neat and realistic but thicker, which can cause bumps.
- Lace Base: Thin, comfortable, and looks flat when installed.
Types of Lace Closures
Various types of lace closures offer different styling possibilities and levels of realism.
Parting Line
The parting line of a closure determines its styling flexibility:
- Mid-Part: Parting line in the center.
- Three-Part: Offers three ways to part and style the hair.
- Free-Part: Allows for versatile styling options.
Size of the Base
Closures come in different sizes to fit various styling needs:
- 4 x 4: Standard size.
- 5 x 5, 6 x 6, 7 x 7: Larger sizes for more coverage.
Texture of the Closure
Closures are available in multiple textures to match your natural hair or desired look:
- Straight: Straight hair strands.
- Wavy: Wavy hair strands.
- Curly and Kinky: Curly patterns.
How Long Should You Keep a Closure In?
Understanding the appropriate duration for keeping a closure in is crucial for maintaining both the closure and your natural hair. The duration a closure lasts depends on how it is installed. A closure sew-in can last between 6 to 12 weeks with proper maintenance every 2-3 weeks. Closure wigs, which can be removed daily, offer more convenience and longevity.
What is the Most Natural Looking Closure?
Selecting the most natural-looking closure involves considering the lace material and hair quality. The most natural-looking closures typically have an HD lace base and high-quality human hair strands. HD lace is thin and blends seamlessly with the scalp, creating a realistic appearance. For the best results, install the closure as a sew-in to ensure it lays flat and looks natural.
How Long Can a Lace Frontal Last?
The longevity of a lace frontal depends on its quality and maintenance. A high-quality lace frontal can last up to a year with proper care. However, after installation, frontals typically last 2-4 weeks before the glue starts to loosen. Continuous wear beyond this period can damage your natural hairline, so it’s advisable to alternate between different frontal wigs to prolong their lifespan.
Hair Frontal vs. Closure
Choosing between a hair frontal and a closure depends on various factors such as styling needs, budget, and personal preference. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of each option.
Pros of Hair Frontal
- Versatility: Allows for various hairstyles, including up-dos.
- Comfort: The lace base allows airflow to the scalp.
- Ideal for Thin Hairlines: Covers up a bad hairline effectively.
Cons of Hair Frontal
- Damages Hairline: Glue used for installation can harm the natural hairline.
- Expensive: Generally pricier than closures.
- Complicated Installation: Requires skilled techniques for a natural look.
Pros of Hair Closure
- Easy Installation: Simple to install and maintain.
- Less Damaging: Does not require glue, making it healthier for the hair.
- High Durability: Can last up to six weeks without readjustment.
- Affordable: Cheaper than frontals.
Cons of Hair Closure
- Lower Versatility: Limited styling options compared to frontals.
What is the Difference Between a Closure and a Frontal?
Understanding the key differences between closures and frontals is essential for making the right choice for your hairstyle needs.
Size of the Base
A hair frontal has a larger base than a closure. The frontal’s base runs throughout the front, from end to end. The closure’s base is a simple square in the middle of the extension.
Versatility
A closure may have natural-looking parting lines, but that is all there is to it. A frontal has more space and its structure gives room for more styles. There is no limit to hairstyles. Ponytails, buns, and French braids are all possible with frontal extensions. However, while you may be able to style a closure, its structure would not permit some styles.
Cost
Besides the size of the base, this is the biggest difference between both products. A frontal will always be more expensive than a closure, irrespective of its quality or the bonus companies may offer. Production of the frontal is more complicated and requires more material than the closure.
Choosing between a frontal and a closure depends on your styling preferences, budget, and the look you aim to achieve. If you desire versatility and are willing to invest more, a frontal might be the best choice. However, if you prefer an easier installation and maintenance process with a natural look, a closure could be the ideal option. Both hairpieces offer unique benefits, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your hairstyling needs.
FAQ
What are Closures?
Closures help achieve a natural full-head weave, often attached to a cornrow base.
What are Frontals?
Frontals close a sew-in across the front hairline, creating a natural full-head weave.
What Does “Frontal-Closure” Mean?
A combination of both, offering a natural hairline with the thin skin perimeter of a closure.
What is HD Lace/Transparent Lace Closures?
A delicate lace material that blends seamlessly with the skin for an invisible hairline.
Is it Okay for My Hair Closure Color to be Lighter Than My Weave?
No, the closure should match or be slightly darker than the weave for a cohesive look.