13x6 vs 13x7 Lace Frontals in a Mesh Install: Which Should You Choose?
When a client wants to pull her hair back, wear it off her face, or part it almost anywhere across the front, closures are not enough. That is when you integrate a lace frontal. The two frontals I use in mesh installs are the 13x6 and the 13x7.
In this guide, I will explain what a frontal adds to a mesh install, how the 13x6 and 13x7 differ, and how to choose.
PART ONE: What a Lace Frontal Is
A lace frontal is a strip of lace that runs from ear to ear across the hairline, with hair ventilated into it. The 13 is the width, about 13 inches ear to ear. The 6 or 7 is the depth, how far back the lace goes from the hairline.
What a frontal adds
- A natural-looking hairline from ear to ear
- Pulled-back styles and styles off the face
- Parting almost anywhere across the front
- A full protective style with no leave-out
PART TWO: 13x6 vs 13x7
13x6 frontal
About six inches of depth. Plenty of room for side parts and pulled-back styles, with slightly less lace to care for.
13x7 frontal
About seven inches of depth. Extra room for deeper parts further back on the head, and more scalp-like area.
How to choose
If the client likes very deep side parts or wants the most scalp area, choose the 13x7. If she wants frontal versatility with a little less lace, the 13x6 is a great choice.
"A frontal is the most freedom at the hairline. It is also the most lace at the front of the head, so education is everything."
PART THREE: Frontal Care and Expectations
Frontals sit right at the hairline, where the lace gets the most handling. Lace pieces are fragile and were originally made for theater.
- Handle the hairline gently
- Avoid harsh scrubbing or pulling at the lace
- Keep adhesive and product buildup to a minimum
- Keep up with maintenance
- Understand that lace wears over time
SIDE BY SIDE: 13x6 vs 13x7
| Factor | 13x6 | 13x7 |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | About 6 inches | About 7 inches |
| Parting | Side parts and pulled-back styles | Deeper parts further back |
| Scalp area | Large | Larger |
| Lace care | Slightly less | Slightly more |
What to Expect From a Frontal Mesh Install
| Factor | What It Looks Like |
|---|---|
| Look | A natural hairline ear to ear |
| Wear time | 4 weeks up to 6 months, depending on the stylist and maintenance |
| Pricing | Beginners $50-$75/hr, experts about $500/hr |
BOTTOM LINE
13x6 and 13x7 lace frontals give ear-to-ear hairline coverage in a mesh install, with the most freedom to part and pull the hair back. Choose the 13x7 for deeper parts and more scalp area, or the 13x6 for a little less lace. Either way, set expectations about lace care.
Read Every Lace Piece You Can Use in a Mesh Install and The 360 Lace Mesh Install.
Train and Shop With BLONC
Learn it step by step with the Mesh Integration Install Certification at Blonc Academy, and practice with the Mesh Integration Install Training Kit.
Shop lace frontals and lace closures. Stylists, join Blonc Pros.