Monofilament Wig: Meaning, Cap Construction, Types, Parting and Monofilament vs Lace Front

Monofilament wigs are preferred choices on some occasions due to their natural scalp and availability of multi-directional parting, what does monofilament mean on a wig and how does a mono wig cap constructed? Lace front vs monofilament wigs, what are the differences, and which is better? Understanding a new type of wig to find the most appropriate product for you. 

What Is a Monofilament Wig?

A monofilament wig is a type of wig that features a specific construction in the cap to create a very natural look. In these wigs, each hair strand is individually hand-tied to a sheer mesh material that gives the appearance of hair growing directly from the scalp. Monofilament wigs often use transparent mesh material made from nylon or polyester at the crown or throughout the wig, which mimics the look of the natural scalp, making it difficult to tell the difference between the wig and natural hair. Monofilament wigs are generally lighter and more breathable than traditional wigs, which have thicker caps. 

What does monofilament mean on a wig? Monofilament refers to a type of fiber that is incorporated into the construction of a wig to make a wig cap or base. Monofilament fibers are very thin individual synthetic fibers that are fused together during manufacturing to create a transparent or invisible mesh-like base. It can be placed at the front, crown, or top. It allows hair fibers to be woven through the monofilament mesh so the wig hair blends naturally with the wearer's own hairline and part. 

What are the benefits of monofilament wigs?

• Natural Look and Feel: monofilament wigs are designed to mimic the natural growth of hair, with individual strands of hair tied to a thin, breathable mesh material. 

• Comfortable to Wear: the material is lightweight, soft, and breathable, it is comfortable to wear for extended periods.

• Versatility: can be styled with heat tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, just like your own hair.

• Durability: more durable than traditional wigs and can last for several years with proper care.

• Secure Fit: allows for a secure fit, with the wig staying in place even when worn in windy or active conditions.

• Parting Flexibility: you can part your hair in different ways without worrying about the wig's structure.

• Natural Hair Growth: allows for natural hair growth, giving the illusion of hair growing from the scalp.

• No Visible Wig Cap: designed to blend seamlessly with the scalp, creating a natural-looking hairline and eliminating the visible wig cap.

• Suitable for Sensitive Scalps: gentle on the scalp and can be worn by individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.

• High-Quality Appearance: often considered to be high-end wigs, offering a natural, realistic appearance that is difficult to distinguish from real hair.

• Easy to Maintain: relatively easy to maintain, with simple washing and styling procedures.

• Wide Range of Styles: available in a wide range of styles, from short and sleek to long and curly, to suit individual preferences.



Types of Monofilament Wigs

- Full Monofilament: the entire cap is made from monofilament material, the most natural look across the entire scalp.

- Partial Monofilament: often found at the crown, part, or top area of the wig, partial monofilament wigs combine monofilament features with other types of cap constructions.

- Double Monofilament: two layers of mesh material make the cap softer and more comfortable, reducing the itchiness that some people experience with single-layer monofilament wigs.

Types of Monofilament Wig Cap Constructions

- Monofilament Top (Mono Top): This type has a monofilament material on the entire top area of the wig cap.

- Monofilament Part: monofilament material only in a specific part area (like a side part or center part).

- Monofilament Crown: incorporates a small section of monofilament material in the crown area of the wig.

Can a Monofilament Wig Be Parted Anywhere?

Whether a mono wig can be parted anywhere depends on the type of monofilament cap construction. For a mono top wig, you can part it anywhere across the top of the head. For the monofilament part, parting is limited to where the monofilament section is located. You cannot change the location of the part without it looking unnatural because the rest of the wig cap is typically constructed with a different, less transparent material. For the monofilament crown, the monofilament section is designed to provide a natural appearance at the crown, but parting elsewhere on the cap won't have the same natural scalp-like appearance.

If you desire full versatility in styling and parting, choose a full monofilament top wig. If you typically wear a specific part and are less likely to change it, a monofilament part wig might be better. And for those who are less concerned about parting but want a natural look at the crown, a monofilament crown wig is appropriate.

Monofilament vs Lace Front Wigs, What Are the Differences?

- Scalp Appearance: Monofilament wigs provide a natural scalp look across a larger section of the wig compared to lace front wigs, which focus on the hairline.

- Hairline/Parting: Lace front wigs excel in offering a realistic hairline, especially useful for styles pulled back away from the face. Monofilament wigs offer flexibility in parting the hair and can mimic natural hair growth from the scalp in those areas.

- Maintenance: Monofilament wigs might require more careful maintenance across a larger area depending on the extent of the monofilament feature.

- Breathability: Monofilament caps are more breathable as the material is more open. Lace fronts can be less breathable as the lace near the hairline is thinner and closer to the scalp.

- Customization: Lace fronts give more options to customize the hair parting. Monofilament parts can't be changed as hairs are threaded all across the front.

- Service Life: Lace fronts may not last as long with regular wear as the lace can deteriorate faster. Monofilament caps tend to last longer.

How Do You Take Care of a Monofilament Wig?

1. Washing: Wash your wig every 6-8 wears or when you notice residue build-up. Overwashing can lead to wear and tear, so it’s important to not wash it too frequently. Gently remove any tangles with a wide-tooth comb or a wig brush designed for wigs. Use lukewarm water and a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. Fill a basin with water, add a small amount of shampoo, and immerse the wig. Gently swirl the wig around in the water without rubbing. Avoid scrubbing as this can damage the fibers. Rinse the wig under lukewarm running water until all shampoo is removed. Ensure the water flows in the same direction as the hair to avoid tangling.

2. Conditioning: After shampooing, apply a conditioner formulated for synthetic hair, if your monofilament wig is synthetic, or a regular hydrating conditioner for human hair wigs. Avoid applying conditioner to the base of the wig as it can loosen the knots on the cap. Leave the conditioner on the hair for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

3. Drying: Blot the wig gently with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting. Place the wig on a wig stand and allow it to air dry naturally. Do not use a blow dryer unless it is specifically designed for wigs and used in a cool setting, as heat can damage synthetic fibers.

4. Styling: If the wig is made from human hair or heat-friendly synthetic fibers, use heat tools in a low setting. Always use a thermal-protectant spray beforehand. Use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush suitable for wigs. Avoid regular hair brushes as they can stretch and pull the fibers out of shape.

5. Storing: When not in use, store your wig on a wig stand or mannequin head in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade and damage the hair. If you need to store the wig for a long period, keep it in a silk or satin bag to protect it from dust and friction.

6. Other Maintenance: Keep the wig away from high temperatures from ovens, grills, or hair dryers. Regular hair care products may contain chemicals that can damage the wig. Periodically check the wig for signs of wear and tear such as thinning fibers, tears in the monofilament mesh, or loose strands, and have these issues addressed promptly either by professional wig services or careful home care.