If you’re shopping for a wig and want it to look as natural as possible, you’ve likely come across two popular terms: lace front and monofilament top (mono top). Both are premium cap features designed to enhance realism—but they serve different purposes and suit different needs.
So how do you choose between a lace front and a mono top wig? Let’s break it down so you can confidently pick the one that’s right for you.
What Is a Lace Front Wig?
A lace front wig features a sheer lace material along the front hairline, with individual hairs hand-tied to mimic the way hair naturally grows out of the scalp.
Benefits of Lace Front Wigs:
- Creates a realistic hairline
- Allows for off-the-face styling (like ponytails or side sweeps)
- Blends well with most skin tones
- Often found on both synthetic and human hair wigs
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Lace is delicate—handle with care when applying or removing
- May require trimming or adhesive for a perfect blend (though many are ready-to-wear)
- Front realism only—parting realism depends on the rest of the cap
What Is a Mono Top Wig?
A monofilament top wig (or "mono top") uses a fine mesh fabric at the crown, where each hair is individually hand-tied. This creates the appearance of hair growing directly from your scalp and allows the hair to be parted in multiple directions.
Benefits of Mono Top Wigs:
- Ultra-realistic scalp appearance at the part
- Multi-directional parting gives styling flexibility
- Soft, breathable cap—especially comfortable for sensitive scalps
- Ideal for women experiencing hair loss or thinning at the top
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Typically more expensive due to hand-tying
- Offers scalp realism only in the top section, not the front hairline (unless combined with a lace front)
Lace Front vs. Mono Top: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Lace Front | Mono Top |
|---|---|---|
| Realistic Hairline | Yes | No (unless paired with lace front) |
| Realistic Part/Scalp | No (unless combined with mono or silk) | Yes |
| Styling Options | Style hair off face, no exposed hairline | Part hair in any direction |
| Comfort | Lightweight in front | Soft, breathable, good for sensitive scalps |
| Best For | Natural-looking hairline and updos | Scalp realism and parting flexibility |
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
-
Choose a Lace Front Wig if…
You wear your hair away from your face, want a natural-looking hairline, or prioritize realism around the forehead. -
Choose a Mono Top Wig if…
You want to part your hair in different directions, have thinning at the crown, or need a breathable, comfortable cap with a realistic scalp. -
Choose a Combination Wig if…
You want the best of both worlds! Many premium wigs today feature lace front + mono top construction for full realism from hairline to crown.
Final Thoughts
Both lace front and mono top wigs are designed to help your wig look more natural—just in different ways. It all comes down to how you style your hair, where your thinning is most noticeable, and what feels best on your scalp.
At Enhanced Hair, we help Canadian women find the perfect wig construction through personalized virtual consultations and expert guidance.