Choosing Between a Frontal and a Closure
When choosing a wig or planning a sew-in, one of the biggest decisions is whether to choose a lace frontal or a lace closure. Both can create a beautiful, natural-looking finish, but they offer different levels of coverage, styling flexibility and maintenance.
If you have wondered whether you should get a 13x4 frontal or a 5x5 closure, this guide breaks down the differences so you can choose the option that best suits your lifestyle, styling preferences and desired look.
What Is a Lace Frontal?
A lace frontal is a hairpiece designed to cover the front hairline, usually extending from ear to ear. Common sizes include 13x4 and 13x6, with the numbers describing the approximate width and depth of the lace area in inches.
Because a frontal covers a wider area along the front of the head, it gives you more freedom to change your part and style your hair away from your face.
Benefits of a frontal
- More styling versatility: A frontal can offer greater freedom to create middle parts, side parts and styles that sweep the hair away from the face. Flexibility depends on the frontal's dimensions and unit construction.
- A wider hairline area: The lace extends across the front of the head, helping create the appearance of a continuous hairline when properly customized and installed.
- More styling options: If you enjoy switching between looks, a frontal gives you more room to experiment with parting and front styling.
Things to consider
A frontal generally requires more attention along the front hairline. Installation, lace positioning and removal should be handled carefully, especially when adhesive is used. Consider whether you are comfortable maintaining the lace and following an appropriate removal routine.
What Is a Lace Closure?
A lace closure is a smaller lace piece typically placed at the top or front of a wig or sew-in. Popular sizes include 4x4, 5x5 and 6x6 inches. It provides a defined area where the hair can be parted, allowing a polished look with less lace to manage.
Benefits of a closure
- A simpler styling routine: A closure can be an excellent option if you usually wear your hair in a middle part or another consistent parting style.
- Less lace to maintain: The smaller lace area generally means less lace to position and care for than with an ear-to-ear frontal.
- Beautiful everyday styles: Closures work well for sleek straight hairstyles, body waves, curls and many other looks.
Things to consider
Your parting options are limited by the closure's size and construction. If you regularly switch between deep side parts, middle parts and styles that expose the entire front hairline, you may prefer a frontal.
Frontal vs. Closure: The Main Differences
Coverage
A frontal usually covers the front hairline from ear to ear. A closure covers a smaller section around the top or front of the head. If you want a wider lace area for styling, a frontal may be the better fit. If you mainly need a defined part, a closure may be all you need.
Styling versatility
Frontal: Generally offers more flexibility for changing your part and styling the hair away from your face.
Closure: Offers a defined parting area and works especially well for consistent, everyday styles.
Neither option guarantees every possible hairstyle. Consider the actual lace dimensions and construction before purchasing.
Maintenance
A frontal typically requires more attention across the front lace area, particularly when adhesive or frequent styling is involved. A closure may be easier to manage for someone who prefers a simpler routine. Both options need proper care to protect the lace, hair and natural hair underneath.
Cost
Pricing varies by hair quality, length, density, lace type, construction and customization. A frontal may cost more than a comparable closure, but this is not a universal rule. Compare the full product specifications rather than choosing based on lace size alone.
Which looks more natural?
Both can create a natural-looking finish when the lace shade, fit, customization and installation are appropriate. A larger lace area does not automatically mean a better result. The right choice is the one that complements your preferred hairstyle and can be maintained properly.
13x4 Frontal vs. 5x5 Closure: Which Should You Choose?
These are two popular options, but they serve different styling needs.
Choose a 13x4 frontal if you:
- Want a wider lace area across the front hairline.
- Enjoy changing your parting and front styling.
- Like wearing your hair away from your face.
- Want more flexibility for different looks.
A 13x4 frontal typically offers approximately 13 inches of width and 4 inches of lace depth. Some styling options depend on the unit's construction and installation.
Choose a 5x5 closure if you:
- Prefer a middle part or a consistent side part.
- Want a smaller lace area.
- Prefer a simpler lace-maintenance routine.
- Want a polished look without needing ear-to-ear coverage.
A 5x5 closure provides approximately five inches of lace width and five inches of depth, though the usable parting area depends on the unit's construction.
The bottom line: Choose a frontal for a wider front hairline and greater styling flexibility. Choose a closure if a defined part and a more straightforward routine better suit your needs.
Is a Frontal or Closure Better for a Sew-In?
Both can work beautifully for a sew-in. Your choice depends on the finish you want and how much of your hairline you want covered. A frontal sew-in can offer more flexibility when styling the front of your hair. A closure sew-in can be ideal for a defined part and a more contained lace area.
Whichever you choose, proper installation and appropriate tension matter. Your style should feel comfortable and should not pull excessively on your natural hair or edges.
Is a Frontal or Closure Better for a Wig?
Both are suitable for custom wigs. A frontal wig may suit someone who enjoys changing hairstyles and wants a wider lace area across the front. A closure wig can be a practical option for someone who prefers a consistent part and wants a simpler routine.
Think about how often you plan to wear the unit, how you prefer to style it and how much maintenance you are comfortable doing.
How to Care for Your Frontal or Closure
- Detangle the hair carefully, starting at the ends.
- Avoid pulling or tugging on the lace.
- Follow suitable installation and removal instructions.
- Avoid excessive heat and use an appropriate heat protectant when styling.
- Keep the lace clean using methods suitable for your unit.
- Store your wig properly when it is not being worn.
If you use adhesive, never pull the lace off forcefully. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's removal instructions to help reduce irritation and unnecessary tension.
Shop Frontals and Closures at Kingdom Krowns
The best choice is not necessarily the option with the most lace. It is the one that fits your preferred hairstyle, maintenance routine and personal style.
Explore the Kingdom Krowns Frontals and Closures collection to compare available lace options, lengths and textures.
Looking for a complete unit instead? Browse our wig collection to explore styles for your next look.
Your crown should work for your lifestyle. Choose the construction that makes you feel confident, comfortable and beautifully put together.
Kingdom Krowns — Your Crown, Your Way.
