It doesn’t matter why you might be looking for a wig. Whether you want to protect your natural hair or to change up hairstyles without making a permanent commitment, one thing stays the same — finding the right wig is a challenge, especially if you’re looking for a curly wig. You can’t just get a nice-looking transparent lace wig and be done with it.
There are many things to consider when buying a new wig. You need to check the wig construction, texture of the hair, hair color, wig length, comfort, and so much more.
Wig density is one of the most important factors when buying a wig. Unfortunately, many women get stuck choosing between a 150% vs. 180% density curly wig, so here are some much-needed tips to help you choose the best wig density for your needs.
150% or 180% Density Curly Wig: The Answer
Which one would you get — 150% or 180%? This answer may sound cliche, but it all boils down to your personal preference and needs.
If you’re a first-time wig buyer, you may want to try a 150% density wig first. This will give you thick hair and great curls. A 150% density wig is also more affordable and is the most natural-looking wig that gives great volume.
Since you’re getting a curly wig, a 150% density can give you a similar volume to a 180% density straight wig.
If you’re planning on doing more artistic or opulent hairstyles, go for a 180% density wig. Additionally, if you change your mind about getting a curly wig, it’s best to get 180% straight hair wigs or higher if you want lots of bounce.
If you still can’t decide between the two options, you can always opt for a custom wig density. This can help you get the best of both densities, allowing you to balance the pros and cons of each.
The Great Debate: 150 vs. 180 Density Curly Wig
Before anything else, what exactly are 150% and 180% density wigs?
Density refers to the volume of hair in the wig. It looks at the overall hair thickness of the wig itself rather than the thickness of the hair strands. Wig density is also sometimes defined as hair per square inch. In short, it refers to how much hair is sewn into the wig caps.
The higher the percentage, the greater the amount of hair in the wig.
Essentially, a 180% density is a thicker and fuller wig than 150% or any lower-density wig. However, 150% is still a nice density, giving you the fullness of natural-looking hair.
Similarities and Differences
To the untrained eye, the 150% and 180% density wigs can look the same. However, below are a few differences and similarities between 150% and 180% density curly wigs.
Similarities:
- Both offer great volume.
- Both have limited lifespans.
- Both give you a fuller look if you have thin or fine hair.
Differences:
- 180% density is heavier than 150%.
- 150% density gives the most natural look.
- 180% density is more expensive.
- 150% density is generally easier to style.
- 180% density can be more high-maintenance.
- 150% density often has a shorter lifespan.
- 180% density is ideal for long hair.
- 180% density wigs take longer to make.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Let’s start with the advantages of the 150% density wigs.
The 150% density wigs are perfect if you’re new to wearing wigs. They are easier to customize and have the most natural-looking wig density. This wig density is also a budget-friendly option.
Since a nice quality 150% curly wig is a budget-friendly option, you can potentially get a variety of wig styles and types to try out, such as a lace front wig to blend with your baby hair, a frontal wig for a seamless look, a pre-styled body wave wig, and more.
Meanwhile, the 180% wigs offer the following advantages.
A 180% density wig might be your perfect match if you want both a high-volume look and longer wig lifespans. Since wigs lose hair strands just like natural hair, higher-density wigs can last longer while retaining a full-volume look.
A 180% density curly wig is also the best option if you like to do elaborate hairstyles. Although styling thick curly hair can be hard, having more hair to work with gives you greater freedom to try new hairdos.
As for the cons of both wig densities, you need to consider the following factors.
Be prepared for your 150% density wig to last shorter than other higher-density wigs. Since the average hair strand count is lower, it can lose its volume faster due to shedding.
The major downside to a high-density wig is the cost and weight. A 180% density wig can get very expensive, especially if you’re getting longer hair, around 22 inches long. Even with free shipping promos, the cost can potentially be double that of medium-density wigs.
Moreover, if you aren’t used to wearing wigs, you’ll likely feel some discomfort when wearing a heavier 180% density or higher wig.
A Quick Guide to Wig Density Categories
The 150% and 180% are not your only wig density options — there are several different densities. Each has its own advantages and occasion for use. A wig density chart can help you distinguish between each type and choose the best density for your curly hair wig.
Wig density categories may differ based on the manufacturer or brand. In general, though, wig densities can be categorized by the following:
- Extra light: Between 60% to 90% density
- Light density: 100% to 110%
- Natural density or medium density wigs: Between 120% to 130%
- Medium to heavy: 150% to 170% density
- High-density or heavy-density wigs: Around 180% and up
- Extra heavy hair density wigs: 200% and higher
The standard density for stock and custom wigs is usually 130%. This also applies to both synthetic hair and human hair wigs. The 130% wig density suits most people’s everyday needs and has a natural appearance with a little added fullness.
Choosing the Perfect Type of Wig
When choosing the perfect wig, you also have to consider other factors besides wig density. Here are a few tips on choosing the right wig density:
- Prioritize your comfort: Think carefully about the weight of the wig you can comfortably handle rather than prioritizing the wig look. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing your wig, it will show and may ruin your overall appearance.
- Check your natural hair density: The first thing people often say when choosing the right wig density is to get a wig that is as close as possible to the density of your natural hair. This helps your new wig blend more seamlessly.
- Think about what hairstyles you want: Take note that a high-density wig can be harder to cut and style, especially when curly. On the flip side, low-density wigs might not have enough hair for you to work into elaborate braids and other styles.
Once you’ve set your mind on whether you want a 150% or 180% density wig, make sure to also consider the following:
- Wig or hair length: If you’re getting heavy hair density wigs, you can have your pick of different hair lengths, allowing you to achieve either a large full afro or long, wavy hairstyles. It’s generally better to buy a longer hair length and trim or style the wig as needed afterward.
- Wig cap construction: The structure of your wig cap can make or break your overall wig-wearing experience. A full lace wig is the most recommended option if you want your scalp to have good breathability in the summer, especially if you’re getting a high-density curly wig or a long and heavy body wave wig.
- Hair texture: Curly wigs come in a wide variety of textures that can affect your overall look, styling requirements, wig care routine, and more. It can even affect the wig density you need. For instance, you don’t need high-density hair wigs to create a high-volume look if you’re getting a 4a textured wig.
Conclusion
We hope this article on 150 vs. 180 Density Curly Wig was helpful!
