Hair Care Products Synthetic Wigs Vs. Human Hair Wigs By Marilyn Atkins Posted on August 21, 2023 0 In the world of wigs, there are two main contenders: synthetic wigs and human hair wigs. When it comes to choosing the perfect wig, understanding the differences between these two options is crucial. Synthetic wigs offer affordability and a wide range of styles, while human hair wigs provide a more natural look and customizable versatility. Whether you’re searching for a wig for fashion or medical reasons, this article will explore the pros and cons of both synthetic wigs and human hair wigs, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences. Customization and Styling Variety of Styles When it comes to customization and styling, both synthetic wigs and human hair wigs offer a wide range of options. Synthetic wigs come in a variety of pre-styled options. Whether you’re looking for a sleek bob, curly locks, or long layers, you can find a synthetic wig that suits your style. On the other hand, human hair wigs offer even more versatility. Since they are made from real human hair, they can be styled just like your own hair. You can use heat styling tools, dye them, or even get a professional haircut to achieve the exact look you desire. Heat Resistance One advantage that synthetic wigs have over human hair wigs is their heat resistance. Synthetic wigs are made with heat-resistant fibers, which means you can use curling irons, straighteners, and other heat styling tools to change their appearance. However, it is important to note that not all synthetic wigs are heat-resistant, so be sure to check the product specifications before applying heat. Human hair wigs, on the other hand, can withstand high temperatures without any risk of damage, as they are made from real hair that has already been subjected to heat styling. Color Options When it comes to choosing the perfect color for your wig, both synthetic and human hair wigs have a wide range of options to offer. Synthetic wigs come in a variety of vibrant and unique colors that are perfect for making a bold statement. From vibrant blues and pinks to natural browns and blondes, you can find a synthetic wig in almost any color of the rainbow. Human hair wigs, on the other hand, offer a more natural color range. Since they are made from real hair, they come in a variety of natural shades that can seamlessly blend with your own hair for a more realistic look. Durability and Lifespan Longevity When it comes to durability and lifespan, human hair wigs are the clear winner. Synthetic wigs tend to have a shorter lifespan as their synthetic fibers can become tangled and frayed over time, especially with frequent use. On the other hand, human hair wigs are more durable and can last for years if properly cared for. With regular maintenance and gentle handling, a high-quality human hair wig can retain its natural shine and texture for a long time. Maintenance Maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring the durability and lifespan of both synthetic and human hair wigs. Synthetic wigs require relatively low maintenance compared to human hair wigs. They are easy to care for and usually only require gentle brushing and washing with specialized wig shampoo and conditioner. Human hair wigs, on the other hand, require a bit more maintenance. Just like real hair, they need to be washed, conditioned, and styled regularly to keep them looking their best. However, with proper care, human hair wigs can last longer and maintain their quality for years to come. Natural Look and Feel Realistic Scalp When it comes to achieving a natural look, both synthetic and human hair wigs have their own advantages. Synthetic wigs often come with a pre-constructed scalp that mimics the appearance of a natural scalp, giving the illusion of hair growing from the scalp. These scalps are typically made with a flesh-toned material and have small hair strands rooted into them. Human hair wigs, however, offer an even more realistic scalp appearance. Since the wigs are made from real hair, they can be customized to have a natural-looking scalp with individual hair strands that appear to be growing from the scalp. Texture Texture plays a significant role in achieving a natural look and feel. Synthetic wigs come in various textures, including straight, curly, and wavy. These textures are predetermined and often retain their shape even after washing. On the other hand, human hair wigs offer a wider range of textures and can be customized to match your own hair texture. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or kinky hair, you can find a human hair wig that closely resembles your natural hair texture, enhancing the overall natural look and feel. Movement One key advantage of human hair wigs is the natural movement they provide. Since they are made from real hair, they move and flow just like your own hair. Human hair wigs allow for a more natural swaying and bouncing effect, giving you the freedom to style your wig in various ways and achieve a more realistic look. Synthetic wigs, although lightweight, may not have the same level of natural movement due to their synthetic fibers. However, advancements in synthetic wig technology have improved the movement and flexibility of synthetic wigs, allowing for a more natural appearance. Price Range Affordability When it comes to price, synthetic wigs are generally more affordable than human hair wigs. Synthetic wigs are made from synthetic fibers which are less expensive to produce compared to sourcing and processing human hair. If you’re on a budget or prefer to switch up your style frequently without breaking the bank, synthetic wigs provide a cost-effective option without compromising on style. Investment On the other hand, human hair wigs are considered more of an investment due to their higher price point. The quality and versatility of human hair wigs make them a valuable long-term option. With proper care and maintenance, a human hair wig can last for years, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking for a wig that will withstand the test of time. Ease of Care Washing and Drying Both synthetic and human hair wigs require regular washing and drying to maintain their cleanliness and appearance. Synthetic wigs are generally easier to care for as they can be washed with specialized wig shampoo and air-dried. Human hair wigs, however, require more attention during the washing process. They need to be gently washed with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and then carefully air-dried or blow-dried on a low heat setting. Although the care routine for human hair wigs may be more time-consuming, the end result is hair that looks and feels just like your own. Styling When it comes to styling, both synthetic and human hair wigs offer versatility. Synthetic wigs are pre-styled and retain their style even after washing. They are effortless to maintain and do not require any additional styling. On the other hand, human hair wigs offer endless styling possibilities. You can use heat styling tools such as curling irons and straighteners to transform the look of your human hair wig. You can also experiment with different hairstyles and even dye the wig to match your desired look. Maintenance Regular maintenance is essential for both synthetic and human hair wigs to ensure they stay in good condition. Synthetic wigs are relatively low maintenance and typically only require gentle brushing and storing in a cool, dry place when not in use. Human hair wigs require more care, including regular brushing, conditioning, storing on a wig stand to maintain their shape, and occasional deep conditioning treatments. Although human hair wigs may require more effort in terms of maintenance, the result is a wig that looks and feels incredibly natural. Allergies and Sensitivities Synthetic Materials For individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain materials, synthetic wigs may be a better option. Synthetic wigs are made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, which are less likely to cause allergic reactions. The materials used in synthetic wigs are typically hypoallergenic and safe for most individuals to wear without any discomfort or irritation. Human Hair On the other hand, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to human hair or the chemicals used during the processing of human hair wigs. It is essential to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities before purchasing a human hair wig. If you have a known sensitivity to human hair or certain chemicals, it may be best to opt for a synthetic wig instead. Availability Ready-to-Wear One advantage of synthetic wigs is their wide availability in ready-to-wear styles. Since synthetic wigs are pre-styled, they are readily available in various styles, lengths, and colors. You can simply choose a synthetic wig that suits your preferences and wear it right out of the box without any additional styling or customization. Custom Orders Although human hair wigs are not as readily available as synthetic wigs, they offer the option for custom orders. Human hair wigs can be customized to your exact specifications, including hair length, style, color, and density. This allows for a more personalized and tailored wig that matches your individual preferences and provides a natural-looking appearance. Comfort and Breathability Weight When it comes to comfort, the weight of the wig plays a crucial role. Synthetic wigs are generally lighter in weight compared to human hair wigs. The lightweight nature of synthetic wigs ensures a comfortable fit and minimizes strain on your scalp, making them an excellent option for individuals with sensitive scalps or those who prefer a lighter feel. Ventilation Both synthetic and human hair wigs offer ventilation, but the construction and materials used may differ. Synthetic wigs are made with breathable cap constructions that allow air to circulate, preventing your scalp from feeling overly hot or sweaty. Human hair wigs also provide ventilation, especially if they have a lace or monofilament cap construction. These cap constructions feature a fine mesh material that mimics the appearance of a natural scalp while allowing air to pass through, ensuring maximum breathability and comfort. Hair Quality Virgin Hair One aspect that sets human hair wigs apart is the quality of hair used. Human hair wigs can be made with virgin hair, which is hair that has never been chemically processed or treated. Virgin hair is known for its exceptional quality, shine, and longevity. With virgin hair wigs, you can enjoy the luxury of wearing hair that looks and feels completely natural. Remy Hair Another term commonly associated with human hair wigs is “Remy hair.” Remy hair is human hair that has been carefully collected to preserve its cuticle alignment. This means that all the hair strands in a Remy hair wig are aligned in the same direction, ensuring a smooth and tangle-free experience. Remy hair wigs offer exceptional quality, durability, and natural movement, making them highly sought after by wig wearers. Environmentally Friendly Origin of Hair When it comes to considering the environmental impact, the origin of the hair used in wigs is a crucial factor. Synthetic wigs are made from synthetic fibers, which are typically derived from petroleum-based products. The production and disposal of synthetic wigs can have a negative impact on the environment due to the use of non-renewable resources. Manufacturing Process Human hair wigs, on the other hand, rely on a renewable resource – human hair. The manufacturing process of human hair wigs involves sourcing hair from individuals who have voluntarily sold their hair or from hair salons where hair is collected as waste. The hair is then carefully processed and treated to create high-quality wigs. Although the manufacturing process of human hair wigs still has its environmental impacts, it is generally considered more sustainable compared to the production of synthetic wigs. In conclusion, both synthetic wigs and human hair wigs offer their own unique benefits and considerations. Synthetic wigs provide a wide variety of pre-styled options, heat resistance, and affordability. On the other hand, human hair wigs offer a more natural look and feel, greater customization and styling options, and a longer lifespan. When choosing between the two, consider your budget, desired level of customization, and the amount of maintenance you are willing to invest. Ultimately, both synthetic wigs and human hair wigs can help you achieve the hair transformation you desire, whether you’re looking for a fun and temporary change or a long-lasting and natural-looking style.