How Much Freedom You Can Get with an 18 Inch Wig

November 8, 2024 Mikey Moran

Wigs come in all sorts of lengths and textures.

You might think you know what you want, but by the time you see the multitude of options, it becomes overwhelming.

But one thing you might be sure of is the length you want. One of the most popular options a lot of people go for is the 18 inch wig.

It's the perfect balance between not too long and not too short. That makes it a go-to choice for many wig wearers. 👌🏿

But how do you know what wig is actually 18-inch?

Do you just take tape to it, and does the length apply to straight, curly, wavy, or kinky textured hair?

Let's answer these questions with our in-depth exploration of 18-inch wig looks across different hair textures.

Straight, Wavy, and Curly Hair Length Chart

Why Texture Affects Wig Length

When you see "18 inches" on a wig label, it refers to the length of the hair when stretched straight.

This measurement starts from the root to the tip of the hair. But here's where things get interesting: the curlier the hair, the shorter it will look in its natural, unstretched state.

This means that an 18 inch straight wig will appear longer than an 18-inch curly or wavy wig.

The texture of the hair plays a huge role in how long it looks in real life. So, let's break down how 18 inches looks for various hair textures.

18-Inch Straight Wig

When you think of an 18-inch wig like the Ombre Burgundy Straight Wig, the straight style is probably what comes to mind first.

Straight hair doesn't have any curls or waves, so it shows off its full length. On most people, an 18-inch straight wig will fall around mid-back.

This length is perfect for anyone who wants a sleek, elegant look that's still manageable.

You can style it in a variety of ways, from straight and polished to sleek ponytails or simple updos. In terms of maintenance, straight wigs are pretty low-maintenance compared to curly textures.

They don't tangle as much, and with a little heat styling, you can keep them looking fresh. If you're aiming for that "just got a blowout" vibe, an 18-inch straight wig is ideal.

18-Inch Wavy Wig

Wavy hair adds a bit of volume and texture, but it's still not as tightly curled as curly or kinky hair.

Because of the waves, the hair tends to appear slightly shorter than straight hair.

So, an 18 inch wavy wig might look like it's around 16-17 inches long when it's on your head.

The waves create a relaxed, beachy look that's perfect for everyday wear or casual events. An 18-inch wavy wig like the 18-Inch Latin Wave V-Part Wig can fall between your shoulder blades, giving you a soft and voluminous style.

The beauty of wavy wigs is their versatility – you can straighten them for a sleek look or add more waves for extra texture.

However, wavy wigs may require more upkeep than straight ones. The waves can tangle more easily.

18-Inch Curly Wig

Now, when we move into the curly category, things get even more fun.

Curly wigs typically shrink in length because of the tight coils or ringlets, so an 18 inch curly wig will look significantly shorter than its straight counterpart.

On average, an 18-inch curly wig might look more like 14-16 inches, depending on the tightness of the curls.

Curly wigs are known for their volume and bounce, giving you that head-turning glam look.

While an 18-inch curly wig may not look as long as a straight wig, it makes up for it with its full, voluminous appearance. If you love big hair that's still manageable, this length is ideal.

Keep in mind, though, that curly wigs require more maintenance, including regular moisturizing, to keep the curls defined and tangle-free.

18-Inch Afro Kinky Curly Wig

Afro kinky curly wigs, also called Type 4 textures, have the tightest coils of all the textures.

These wigs shrink the most, so an 18-inch afro kinky curly wig might appear even shorter than a regular curly wig—closer to 12-14 inches in appearance.

This texture is perfect for women who want to rock natural-looking hair with maximum volume and texture.

Afro kinky curly wigs give you that gorgeous, full-bodied look that mimics natural Afro-textured hair. They're stunning and bold.

But not too fast because they also require the most care.

Regular moisturizing, detangling, and using the right products will help maintain the health and bounce off the curls.

How to Measure an 18-Inch Wig

No matter the texture, the best way to measure your 18-inch wig is by stretching the hair completely straight.

So, even if it's really curly, you can ascertain that the wig is truly 18 inches. Lay the wig flat, stretch out the curls or waves, and measure from the roots to the ends.

This gives you an accurate reading of the length, especially for wigs that aren't straight.

Jerry Curl HD 2x6 Closure Glueless Wig 2

Choosing the Right Wig for You

Now, you are sure of the length of the wig.

If you're thinking of buying an 18-inch wig, you know now that the texture will affect its appearance.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one for your style and needs:

Put Your Lifestyle in Consideration: If you lead an active lifestyle or prefer low-maintenance hair, straight or wavy wigs may be better for you. They're easier to manage and less prone to tangling. Curly and kinky wigs, while beautiful, require more upkeep, including regular detangling and moisturizing.
Think about the Look You Want: If you want a sleek, polished look, an 18-inch straight wig is perfect. For more volume and texture, go for wavy or curly wigs. Kinky curly wigs are great for those who want a full, natural look with lots of texture.
Know Your Wig's Base: The wig's base is crucial for a natural-looking install. Lace front wigs and closure wigs give a seamless, natural hairline, while glueless wigs are perfect for beginners or those who prefer easy, daily wear.
Match the Color to Your Skin Tone: An 18-inch wig comes in various colors, from jet black to blonde to vibrant Copper Lace Front Wigs tones. Choose a color that compliments your skin tone and enhances your natural beauty.