How Long Is a 20 Inch Wig In a Deep Wave Texture

Quick Overview

• A 20-inch deep wave wig measures approximately 50 cm (about 20 inches) stretched flat
• When worn, deep wave texture causes 2–4 inches of shrinkage — so it typically falls around your upper back or shoulder area, not mid-back
• Straight wigs fall true to length; deep wave wigs appear shorter due to the S-shaped curl pattern
• If you want the appearance of 20-inch length in a deep wave, buy a 22–24 inch wig instead
• Height matters — the same wig sits higher on a taller person
• Deep wave wigs need sulfate-free products, wide-tooth combing, and air drying to maintain their curl pattern

A 20-inch wig sounds like a straightforward measurement — but once you add a deep wave texture into the equation, the actual look on your body is a completely different story.

This guide breaks down exactly what a 20-inch deep wave wig looks like when worn, why the length appears shorter than expected, and how to choose the right length based on your height and the look you're going for.

How Long Is a 20-Inch Deep Wave Wig, Really?

Measured flat and stretched straight, a 20-inch wig is exactly that — 20 inches (roughly 50 cm). But deep wave wigs are never flat. Their tight, S-shaped curl pattern compresses the hair, making it appear 2 to 4 inches shorter than the measured length when actually worn.

In practice, this means a 20-inch deep wave wig typically falls around your upper back or collarbone region rather than mid-back. Compare that to a 20-inch straight wig, which falls true to length at the mid-back.

The tighter the curl pattern, the more pronounced the shrinkage. Deep wave has a tighter pattern than body wave or loose wave, which is why the difference is so noticeable.

Where Does a 20-Inch Deep Wave Wig Fall on Your Body?

Body placement depends heavily on your height. Here's a general breakdown:

Taller women will see the wig sit noticeably higher on their body. If you're 5'8" or above and want that mid-back length in a deep wave texture, sizing up to 22 or 24 inches is the move.

What Makes Deep Wave Wigs Look Shorter?

Three factors control how much shorter a deep wave wig looks compared to its labeled length:

Curl Pattern Tightness: Deep wave features a defined, consistent S-curl. The tighter and more uniform the curl, the more it compresses the hair shaft and reduces visible length. A looser texture like body wave will shrink less.

Hair Density: Higher density wigs (150%–180%) tend to be fuller and can look slightly shorter because the volume pushes the curls outward rather than letting them hang straight down. Lower density wigs appear to hang a bit longer.

How You Style It: Wearing the hair down versus pulling it back, or how much moisture is in the hair, all affect how much the curl contracts. A wet deep wave wig will look noticeably longer than a dry one because the curls loosen with moisture.

Choosing the Right Length for Deep Wave Wigs

Since deep wave texture naturally shortens the appearance of your wig, here's a simple rule to follow: buy one to two inches longer than the look you actually want.

If you have a square face shape, curly and wavy textures at 20 inches tend to add width rather than length due to volume. Going up to 24 inches in a deep wave helps create a more elongating effect.

Why Should You Choose a 20-Inch Deep Wave Wig?

Even with shrinkage factored in, the 20-inch deep wave is one of the most popular lengths for good reason.

Volume and Fullness

Deep wave texture creates a naturally voluminous, three-dimensional look. At 20 inches, you get significant fullness without the hair being so long that it becomes difficult to manage. The S-curl pattern adds body that straight hair simply can't replicate at the same length.

Versatility

20 inches gives you enough length to wear the hair down, half-up, or in a loose low style. You can also go from a dry, defined wave look to a wet, slicked-back style just by adding moisture. If you prefer your hair straight, curly, or in body wave styles, this length accommodates all of it.

Works for Most Face Shapes

The volume from the deep wave curl adds width, which balances oval, heart, and longer face shapes. For round faces, the length still provides some elongation. It's one of the most universally flattering lengths available.

Fashion Statement

A deep wave at 20 inches strikes the balance between glamorous and everyday wearable. It's long enough to make a statement — especially in a color like light ash blonde — without being so long it requires constant maintenance attention.

How to Measure a 20-Inch Deep Wave Wig Accurately

Because deep wave hair is never fully straight, measuring it correctly requires a specific approach:

Place the wig on a wig head or flat surface. Take a soft fabric tape measure (not a metal construction tape) and start at the root of the hair at the top of the head, measuring to the ends. For deep wave specifically, gently stretch a single strand straight before measuring — this gives you the true labeled length. The curled appearance you see in normal wear is the "shrunk" version of that measurement.

If the wig is asymmetrical or has layers, measure both sides and the back separately to get the full picture.

Deep Wave vs. Other Textures at 20 Inches

Not sure how deep wave compares to other textures at the same length? Here's a quick breakdown:

If you're deciding between a body wave and a deep wave at the same length, deep wave will look shorter but fuller. Body wave will appear closer to its labeled length with a softer, more relaxed texture.

How to Care for a Deep Wave Wig

Deep wave wigs require more specific care than straight wigs because the curl pattern is delicate — the wrong products or techniques can loosen the waves permanently.

Washing

Wash every 1–2 weeks depending on product buildup and activity level. Always use a sulfate-free shampoo — sulfates strip the natural oils that keep the curl pattern intact and lead to dryness and frizz. When washing, work the shampoo through the hair in a downward motion rather than scrubbing, which causes tangling.

Conditioning

Follow every wash with a hydrating conditioner applied from mid-length to ends. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing with cool water — cool water seals the hair cuticle and locks in shine. For deep wave wigs, a leave-in conditioner is a strong add-on to keep curls defined between washes.

Detangling

Always detangle while the hair is damp and coated with conditioner. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers — never a paddle brush, which breaks up the curl pattern. Start at the ends and work upward toward the roots.

Drying

Air dry whenever possible. Place the wig on a wig stand or mannequin head in a cool, shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, which weakens the curl. If you need to use a blow dryer, use a diffuser attachment on the lowest heat setting. While the hair is still damp, gently shape the curls with your fingers to define them as they dry.

Overnight Care

Use a satin bonnet or silk pillowcase to prevent friction and preserve the curl pattern while sleeping. Many people also use the pineapple method — gathering the hair into a loose, high ponytail before bed — which keeps the waves intact and reduces tangles in the morning.

Moisture Maintenance Between Washes

Deep wave hair benefits from regular hydration between washes. A light spritz of water mixed with leave-in conditioner refreshes the curls and prevents the dryness that causes frizz. Follow up with a small amount of lightweight hair oil or curl-enhancing cream to keep the waves defined.

Storage

Store the wig on a mannequin head or in a satin-lined bag when not in use. Avoid compressing it in tight spaces, which can flatten the curls and cause creases. A cool, dry storage location preserves the curl pattern long-term.

Is a 20-Inch Deep Wave Wig Right for You?

If you want voluminous, glamorous length that sits at your upper back or shoulder area with a defined, bouncy curl — yes. A 20-inch deep wave is one of the best combinations of length and texture available.

Just go in with the right expectations: the labeled length is the stretched measurement, not what you'll see in the mirror. Account for 2–4 inches of shrinkage, and if you're after a true mid-back look, shop for a 22–24 inch deep wave instead.

Ready to find your length? Browse our full collection of deep wave wigs and human hair wigs. You can also explore The Length of 22-Inch Wigs if you're deciding between the two.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a 20-inch deep wave wig actually look when worn?

Due to the S-curl pattern, a 20-inch deep wave wig typically appears 2–4 inches shorter than labeled when worn. Most people will see it fall around the upper back or shoulder area rather than mid-back.

Should I size up when buying a deep wave wig?

Yes. If you want the appearance of 20-inch length, buy a 22-inch deep wave wig. The curl shrinkage will bring it close to the look you're after.

How long will a 20-inch deep wave wig last with proper care?

A quality human hair deep wave wig that's properly maintained can last anywhere from one to three years. The key factors are washing frequency, heat usage, and nightly protection.

Can I straighten a deep wave wig?

Yes, since it's human hair. However, straightening changes the curl pattern permanently in most cases. If you want the option to go back to waves, limit heat use and always apply a heat protectant first.

What products are best for deep wave wigs?

Use sulfate-free shampoo, a moisturizing conditioner, a leave-in conditioner, and a lightweight hair oil or curl cream. Avoid products with alcohol, which dries out the curl pattern and causes frizz.

Does deep wave look the same wet and dry?

No — deep wave wigs look noticeably longer when wet because the curls loosen with moisture. As the hair dries, the curls contract back and the wig appears shorter. This is normal and not a defect in the product.

What's the difference between deep wave and body wave at 20 inches?

Body wave has a looser, more relaxed curl pattern and shrinks 1–2 inches at 20 inches. Deep wave shrinks 2–4 inches. Body wave will appear longer and lighter in volume; deep wave will be fuller and sit higher on the body.