Wig Density - Choose the Perfect Hair Density for Your Next Wig

Wig density is one of the most important aspects of any unit, and if you don't choose the proper hair density, it'll affect everything from your wig care routine to how the wig lays.

Unfortunately, when it comes down to choosing the right wig density, it can be downright frustrating. And that's why we're here. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about wig density and how to choose the perfect density for your next wig. 

What is Wig Density?

Wig density measures how full your wig is: it's expressed as a percentage ranging from low hair density (50-60%) to high hair density (200% and up). Your wig's density directly affects how full your wig will look after you put it on. Low-density wigs will look thinner, while higher density wigs look fuller. 

How Wig Density is Classified

You have many options when it comes to wig density, ranging from 50% to 250% density. Density is also classified as low-density, medium-density, and high-density. Let's explore all of the wig densities in the following list.

• 60 - 90% density: This is the lowest density in existence - it is often described as extra light. 
• 100 - 110% density: This is another very light wig density that you won't find on the market. 
• 120 - 130% density wig: This density is standard in the wig market. Due to its subtle volume and natural-looking fullness, it is preferred by many. 
• 150% density wig: 150% density is for people who like a bit of extra fullness in their units. It's easy to find because of its popularity. 
• 180% density wig: 180% density wigs are a bit fuller than 150% density wigs. This density level is great for both short and long wigs. 
• 200% density wig: 200% density wigs are considered full and voluminous. They lend themselves well to longer styles and looks but can still work for updos and shorter styles. 
• 250% density wig: 250% density wigs are the fullest, most luxurious wigs on the market. They are great for big, celeb-inspired looks. 
• Low-Density Wigs (50-100%): Low density wigs are best for people who have naturally thin hair. Low density wig caps are also used at the front of a wig to create a natural-looking hairline.  
• Medium Density Wigs (130-150%): Medium density wigs have more volume and fullness than low-density wigs, giving the wearer enhanced styling options. 
• High-Density Wigs (180-250%): High-density wigs give you the most fullness for when you're feeling glam and want to impress. Most popular influencers who post hair photos and videos on Instagram and TikTok are wearing high-density wigs. Contrary to what some sources say, high-density wigs can look surprisingly natural.

Wig Density Chart

In addition to the descriptions above, we'd like to give you a visual representation of the different wig densities available to you. The density chart gives you an idea of what to expect when choosing a particular hair density. The chart showing hair densities from 60% to 200%. Notice that the 60% density hair is much thinner than 200% density hair. 

Why You Should Care About Wig Density

Wig density can be confusing to some and an annoyance to others, but one thing's for sure - it matters. It directly affects how your wig will look with your face, the styles you can create, how the unit will feel on your head, and more. Let's look a little further into the details in the section below: 

1. Density affects the look of your wig - Lower density wigs will be visibly thinner than higher density wigs. If you want a glamorous look, a high-density wig will give you all the volume you need to achieve it. Also, a higher density wig gives you enhanced styling capabilities, whereas low-density wigs may not be full enough to accomplish some styles. 
2. Density affects your wig care routine - The recommended wig care routine will be different for low-density, medium-density, and high-density wigs (more on this later).  
3. Density affects your wig-wearing experiences - When you whip your hair back and forth in a high-density wig, you'll feel like a queen. Lower density wigs may not give you this same luxurious experience.  
4. The hair density affects the price - High-density wigs cost more than lower density wigs. This is simply because high-density wigs have more hair on them. 

Hair Density VS Hair Thickness

Hair density and hair thickness are very different. In this section, we'll help you understand both of these terms. 

Hair density refers to the number of hairs that are attached to a wig cap. The more hairs there are, the higher the wig density is. And, consequently, the lower the number of hairs, the lower the wig's density will be. 

Hair thickness, on the other hand, refers to the width of the individual hairs. Some hairs are fine and slender, while others are coarse (or thick). 

Wig Density Recommendation in Regard to Length

Certain wig densities will look different on different hair lengths. While the wig density you choose should match your personal preference, the following recommendations can help you select a wig density that'll work well with your wig length.  

• Short (6 inches to 10 inches): For short hairstyles, we recommend choosing a density that's between 120 and 150%. These densities will look most natural and will reduce the chance of your styles coming out too bulky. 
• Medium (12 inches to 16 inches): For medium-length styles, we recommend choosing a density between 130 and 180%. Choose your specific density depending on how much volume you prefer. 
• Long (18 inches to 22 inches): When it comes to long hair, higher density is preferred to give you enough volume and fullness. Choose density between 150 and 250%. 
• Extra Long (24 inches to 30+ inches): For extra long hair, 250% density is recommended. It'll ensure that your hair is full from roots to tips.

How to Choose the Right Wig Density

Choosing the right wig density requires you to consider quite a few factors, including your lifestyle, age, and more. Let's jump into these factors and more to help you choose the right wig density for you! 

• Your preferred hairstyle and length: When choosing your wig density, it's essential to consider whether you'll be wearing your hair long, short, curly, wavy, etc. Different hair textures and lengths make a big difference in the overall look of your wig. High densities pair well with longer styles and straight hair. Lower densities are best for short styles and thicker textured hair.  
• Your natural hair density: If you usually wear your hair out and want your wig to look identical to your own hair, you should choose a density similar to your natural density. For instance, if your natural hair is fine and on the thin side, you should choose a wig density closer to the 130% to 150% range. On the other hand, if your natural hair is very thick and full, a higher density wig (180- 250%) will give you the most natural look. 
• Your lifestyle: Your lifestyle is one of the most important things to consider when choosing your wig density. If you sweat a lot or often engage in intense physical activity, you should choose a lower density wig that will keep you cooler. On the other hand, if you want a wig to wear on date night or girls' night, a high-density wig will give you the fullness you need to turn heads!
• Your age: You may want to consider your age when choosing a density level for your wig. As we get older, our hair naturally thins out. So, if you're going for a true-to-life look and you're over the age of 50, you may want to opt for a lower density wig. 
• Hair Textures: Consider the texture of your desired wig when choosing the density. For instance, curly textures give the illusion of fullness, so you may not need as much density in a curly wig. Straight wigs tend to look thinner, so choosing a higher density will often be the better choice. 
• Materials matter: Wigs with the same density level can look different depending on the quality of the hair and materials used. For the best overall look, we recommend that you choose wigs made of 100% virgin or Remy human hair. 

How to Determine You Get the Density You Buy

Sometimes the density advertised online or in-store is not accurate. So, it's crucial to know the correlation between a wig's density, weight, and length. You should look at the wig and compare it to the wig chart in the "Wig Density Chart" section to see if the wig density matches the density you chose.  

In addition to that, use the image below to find out how to determine whether your wig's density is in line with what you bought. 

How To Deal with If You Have A Wig Density That Doesn't Fit You

There will be times when you get a wig home and realize that the density is not right. When that happens, you have a couple of options. 

• If the density of your wig is too low, you should take the following steps to add more volume and fullness: 
• Take small sections of your wig and backcomb them to give the illusion of more volume. To do this, drag the comb from the midshaft of the section and pull it toward the roots repeatedly. 
• Use some hair-cutting shears to give your wig a blunt cut. Doing so will give the illusion of added thickness. 
• Add some curls or waves to your wig for more volume using a curling iron, flat iron, or wand curler. 
• Try adding some dry shampoo at the roots of the wig to add volume. 
• If you bought a wig with too much hair density, try any of the below tips: 
• Thin the length of the wig out with some thinning shears. 
• Pluck the perimeter of the wig for a more natural hairline. 
• Apply some mousse to the wig, cover it tightly with a scarf, and then remove the scarf to reduce volume at the crown. 
• Straighten your wig until it is bone straight to decrease the volume. 

Wig Care for Different Densities

For all densities, you should take steps to reduce the chances of shedding. You can do this by using a knot sealer, being gentle with the lace (no scratching or pulling), avoiding hot water, and handling and combing it gently.

Let's get into how to care for wigs with different densities: 

• How to care for low-density wigs - With low-density wigs, it's important to keep them clean, being especially gentle as you do so. Also, you should always use lighter products so that you don't weigh down the wig's strands. You can also use mousse and shampoos that are specially formulated to add volume. 
• How to care for medium density wigs - Medium density wigs are the easiest to care for. You can keep them moisturized and looking great with a myriad of products. If you want to tame your wig or give it more hang time, use thicker, heavier products. Don't forget to wash your wig regularly with a shampoo and conditioner that are formulated for wigs. 
• How to care for high-density wigs - With high-density wigs, you should be careful to cleanse your wig thoroughly - this is crucial for high-density wigs due to the vast amount of hair on the wig. Also, don't be afraid to apply your hair care products generously.