What Does Wig Density Mean - The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to choosing the perfect wig, understanding wig density is crucial. But what exactly does wig density mean?

Simply put, wig density refers to the thickness or fullness of the hair on the wig cap. It’s measured as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating thicker, fuller hair. For example, a wig with 150% density will have more hair than a wig with 120% density.

Let’s dive deeper into how wig density affects the look and feel of your wig and how to choose the right density for your needs.

What Does Wig Density Mean?

Wig density describes how thick or full the hair on a wig appears. The standard wig densities range from light (80%-100%) to heavy (180%-200%).

The density you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve and how natural you want the wig to appear.

A lighter density can mimic the look of thin, fine hair, while a denser wig creates a more voluminous style.

The average human hair wig comes in a medium density of 130%-150%, which gives a natural but fuller look.

On the other hand, certain styles, such as wigs with bangs or braided wigs, often feature varying densities to enhance specific hairstyles.

Light Density (80%-100%): This is ideal for those who prefer a more natural look with less volume. Perfect for short wigs or people with naturally fine hair.
Medium Density (130%-150%): This is the most common density and offers a balance between fullness and a natural appearance. It works well with most styles, including lace wigs and human hair wigs.
Heavy Density (180%-200%): Ideal for those looking to make a statement with thick, voluminous hair. Often used for long wigs or those who want a more glamorous look.

Choosing the right density is essential because it determines how realistic and comfortable your wig will be. A density that’s too high can make a wig appear bulky, while one that’s too light may look too thin.

How Does Wig Density Affect Different Wig Types?

a black african american woman wearing a dense human hair wig

The density of a wig can significantly affect the look and feel, especially when comparing synthetic wigs and human hair wigs.

Human Hair Wigs: These wigs naturally mimic real hair, so choosing a density close to your own hair type will give the most natural look. If you have thick hair, opt for a higher density to match. On the other hand, if you have fine hair, a lighter density will look more natural.
Learn more about human hair wigs HERE.
Synthetic Wigs: Synthetic hair tends to hold its shape better, even at lower densities. This makes synthetic wigs an excellent option for those who want volume without too much thickness. Plus, lower densities can help synthetic wigs look more natural, as synthetic fibers can sometimes appear shinier than natural hair.
Check out our collection of synthetic wigs HERE.

Wig Density and Styles

Some styles work better with certain densities. Here’s how density affects various popular wig styles:

Short Wigs: Shorter styles do better with lighter densities (100%-130%) as less hair means a sleeker look. Too much density can make short styles look bulky or unnatural. See our short wigs HERE.
Braided Wigs: Braided styles use higher densities (150%-180%) so the braids look thick and full. Lower density braided wigs may look too thin and the style will fall flat. Check out our braided wigs HERE.
Wigs with Bangs: For wigs with bangs, medium density is best (130%-150%). Bangs need volume to look natural without overwhelming the face. Too much density and bangs will look too thick, too little density and they’ll look too sparse. Check out our wigs with bangs HERE.

How to Choose the Right Density

When choosing the right density for your wig, consider:

Hair Texture: Thicker, curlier hair looks fuller so you may want a lighter density. Straight hair looks less voluminous so a higher density may be needed to achieve the same effect.
Desired Look: For a natural, everyday look medium density (130%-150%) is best. For a dramatic or glamorous look 180% or higher.
Wig Type: Human hair wigs and synthetic wigs will look different even at the same density. Human hair wigs have a softer, more natural fall, synthetic wigs maintain their shape.

Bottom Line

Wig density is key when choosing your wig. Whether you’re looking for a natural look with a human hair wig or a bold statement with a braided wig, density matters. Choose the right density for your face shape, hair texture and you.