Integrating Lace Frontals

A lace frontal is a great way to make any hair extension appear more natural. As a unit that is designed to create a natural part and hairline, it is a more affordable option than most lace front wigs or full lace wigs. Even though many women venture to the salon for lace frontal installation, it can be done at home.

Finding the Right Unit

Finding the right lace frontal is the first thing that you should do. Most lace frontals cover up to the first 6 inches of the head ending at the crown. However, some cover less with the smallest lace coverage area being around 3 inches. This is important to know since your braiding pattern will depend on this in addition to the amount of hair for a weave.

Choosing a lace frontal is in many ways just like choosing a lace wig. The same lengths and textures are offered with one exception. Since lace frontals are not as popular, the color choices are rather limited. Buying the lace frontal first is best so you can match it to any other hair that you will be integrating. These partial units are often in the $100-$200 range.

Choosing Your Method

There are a number of methods you can use to integrate your lace frontal. Each one has its benefits depending on your hair needs. Each one is listed as follows.

Method One: Integration with Natural Hair

This is a good choice if you have a nice head of hair and do not mind daily styling. If you have a damaged or thinning hairline but the rest of your hair past the crown is full, this is a good option. To integrate with your own hair, make sure that the lace frontal matches your hair color and texture well.

Since the back half of the unit has lace as well, you will either need to purchase and sew in clips or securely bobby pin in the back. Securing the back with sew in clips is suggested since it will provide a better hold. Attachable clips can be purchased at your local beauty supply store or online. Sew these in with weaving string in a line of three at the back base.

All you have to do now is clean your forehead, cut the front lace, and apply with glue or tape. Once your front is secured, close your hair clips on a small horizontal braid or onto loose hair.

Method Two: Integrating With Extensions

Prior to installing the lace frontal, you must possess knowledge of hair weaving techniques. Many women choose this option because they simply want the natural hairline and part but do not require anything else as far as high ponytails.

If you want something that does not match your own hair texture or color and do not want to deal with daily styling, this is a good option. This will also act a protective style for hair growth since your natural hair is concealed.

Your first task will be to select a braiding pattern and attach the hair weave. The braiding pattern can vary depending on your style. Some women who install curly hair use a serpentine pattern since the curls are suppose to free flowing and a little wild. If you want a sleek, straight look the traditional circular pattern will work very well. Braid your hair and then prep your lace frontal. Mark where the lace frontal will end and the extension hair will begin.

Some women prefer to install the lace frontal first and then the extensions so that they can sew the final top row of hair on top or the frontal. Others prefer to install the extensions first and then lace unit using sew in clips from method one. Whatever your preference, make sure that these two are closely installed so that the hair flows seamlessly as one unit.