Synthetic Wigs vs Human Hair Wigs

Did you know that there are a variety of wig types and wig brands, on the market? This means choosing the right wig can be both exciting and overwhelming. Understanding the basics of synthetic wigs vs human hair wigs is key to selecting the right wig for you. In this post, we’ll take a look at the advantages, limitations and differences between synthetic hair and human hair wigs, along with heat-resistant synthetic wigs and blended wigs. We’ll help you find your dream wig in no time!

MODEL SHOWN: Venice Lace Human Hair Wig Gisela Mayer

Human Hair wigs

Human hair wigs are made from natural, human hair fibres. As a result, human hair wigs offer the most natural look and feel – this is the key difference between synthetic hair and human hair. The hair is soft and has a shine and movement that is hard to replicate synthetically..

Advantages of Human Hair Wigs

Many human hair wigs can be styled, permed and coloured just like your own hair. If you wish to alter the colour of your wig, we recommend taking it to a stylist who is experienced in dealing with human hair wigs.

Due to the different types of human hair wigs, you have the choice of choosing a texture that closely resembles your own hair for a more natural feel.

With proper care, human hair wigs can last a year or more when worn daily.

Human hair wigs can look and feel incredibly natural thanks to the authentic, human hair fibres.

Limitations of Human Hair Wigs

Just like real hair, human hair wigs need to be washed and re-styled frequently. For tips on how to wash a human hair wig or how to keep a human hair wig tangle-free, please check out our blog.

Human hair wigs are typically more expensive as they are made from real hair. This is especially true of Remy wigs, where each hair’s original cuticle is preserved.

Each human hair wig contains hair from multiple people and it’s difficult to replicate exact colours.

Human hair wig colours can oxidise and fade as a result of exposure to light.

Just like natural hair, human hair wigs react to the elements. Yes, that means that the frizz can come out in wet or humid weather!

If styled repeatedly with heated styling tools or subjected to hard brushing, the hair can become damaged and it may be difficult to make your human hair wig soft again.

MODEL SHOWN: Signature Petite wig by Natural Image

Synthetic Hair wigs

Although one main difference between synthetic and human hair is the natural appearance of human hair wigs, synthetic hair wigs have come leaps and bounds in recent years. In some cases, the texture almost feels like human hair!

Advantages of Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic hair wigs have a handy ‘style retention’. You can even wash the wig and it will return to its initial style, like magic!

One of the key advantages when looking at the synthetic vs human hair wigs debate is a synthetic wig’s ability to retain its style, regardless of the weather. No unwanted frizz!

There are endless colour options with synthetic wigs, ranging from classic, natural to abstract, wild and wonderful colours!

Depending on the quality, synthetic hair wigs are less expensive than human hair wigs. If you purchase a good quality, heat-friendly synthetic wig, it can be more cost-effective than human hair wigs.

As the hairs are synthetic they require less care than human hair. Generally, synthetic wigs require a wash after every six to eight wears.

A high-quality synthetic hair wig can look just as natural as a human hair wig. Heat-friendly synthetic wigs tend to be less shiny than other synthetic wigs so can look more realistic.

Synthetic wigs are more lightweight than human hair wigs, which can make them more comfortable to wear, especially in warm weather.

Limitations of Synthetic Wigs

Some synthetic wigs can have an unnatural shine but don’t worry; check out our blog post on how to remove the shine on a synthetic wig.

Synthetic wigs actually don’t last as long as human hair wigs, so you might find yourself needing to replace your synthetic wig more frequently.

Unless your wig has specifically heat-friendly fibres, synthetic wigs cannot be styled using heated styling tools. For these wigs, you can only fashion the style it already possesses.

Recolouring is not recommended for synthetic wigs, so make sure you choose a colour you will want to stick to.

Particularly with heat-friendly synthetic wigs, the hair can become fuzzy over time and as a result of styling.

MODEL SHOWN: Cher wig by Ellen Wille

Heat-Friendly Synthetic wigs

Heat-resistant synthetic wigs are made from specially-designed synthetic fibres that can be styled with heated hair tools. The most obvious benefit of a heat-friendly synthetic wig is that you can style your wig how you please without spending the cost of a human hair wig.

Advantages of Heat-Friendly Synthetic Wigs

If you like to style your hair in different ways, a heat-resistant synthetic wig allows you to do that. There’s no need to say goodbye to your favourite straighteners or curling tong.

Wearing the same synthetic wig every day can leave you feeling bored of your look. With a heat-resistant synthetic wig, you can easily switch up your hair without having to invest a new wig.

Although human hair wigs have a premium look and longevity, they are more expensive than synthetic wigs. With a heat-resistant synthetic wig, you can achieve multiple styles with one wig without investing in the cost of a human hair piece.

Just like a traditional synthetic wig, heat-resistant synthetic wigs hold style memory, allowing you to get back to your original style with ease.

Heat-friendly synthetic wigs tend to be less shiny than other synthetic wigs so can look even more realistic.

Limitations of Heat-Friendly Synthetic Wigs

The texture of heat-friendly synthetic wigs can become fuzzy and strayed over time, particularly as a result of heat styling.

Compared with a traditional synthetic wig, a heat-friendly alternative requires more maintenance. With changing styles, the use of heat and more man-handling, heat-friendly wigs are more prone to damage and tangling.

Although heat-resistant synthetic wigs can tolerate heated hair tools, these tools should be kept to a low heat – ideally no more than 135°C. Using tools that are too hot or applying heat in excess can cause damage to the fibres, shortening the lifespan of your wig.

As with regular synthetic wigs, recolouring is not advised for heat-friendly synthetic pieces. With that in mind, choose a colour that you feel good wearing!

Azelia Wig Human Hair Blend from Natural Collection

MODEL SHOWN: Azelia wig by Natural Collection

Human Hair Synthetic Blend wigs

Human hair synthetic blend wigs are made with a mixture of synthetic and human hair fibres. The percentage of human hair vs synthetic fibres varies from wig to wig, so keep an eye out if you’re exploring blended pieces.

Advantages of Human Hair Synthetic Blend Wigs

In most cases, blended wigs are made with human hair fibres and heat-resistant synthetic fibres. As a result, you can use a low heat to style your wig as you want to.

Blended wigs can hold their style much better than human hair wigs can, so you can style your favourite looks without facing as much disruption from the weather!

With proper care, a blended wig should last a few months longer than a purely synthetic wig.

Although slightly heavier than synthetic wigs, blended wigs are much lighter than human hair wigs, which many wig wearers find more comfortable.

Limitations of Human Hair Synthetic Blend Wigs

As synthetic wigs and human hair wigs are more popular than blended wigs, you generally have fewer options to choose from when it comes to wig styles and wig colours.

Blended wigs are generally more expensive than synthetic or heat-resistant synthetic wigs due to the use of human hair.

With two different types of fibre, it can be harder to look after a blended wig. You need to pay closer attention to your wig care products and make sure they are suitable for both human hair and synthetic fibres.

Human hair fibres are more prone to colour fading. Over a prolonged time, this may cause the colour of your wig to look more uneven.

Can You Tell the Difference Between Synthetic and Human Hair Wigs?

Without close inspection, most people would not be able to tell the difference between a good-quality synthetic wig and a human hair wig. The technology behind synthetic wigs has come a long way, giving an ultra-realistic look. However, if you are feeling nervous about being asked if you’re wearing a wig, you may want to try a human hair wig for the most natural look and feel.

Which Type of Wig Is Right for Me?

Now that you know the basic differences in the synthetic hair vs human hair debate, you can make a better-informed decision about which one is right for you. To find the right wig on your wig-buying journey, and ensure you have considered every difference between synthetic hair and human hair, we recommend that you ask yourself the following questions:

– How often will I wear my wig?

If you’re anticipating wearing your wig every day, think about purchasing a human hair wig as they last longer and have a more natural finish. Human hair wigs also offer more styling versatility, so you could achieve more looks through one wig rather than purchasing multiple pieces. You can also colour a human hair wig, so you can really switch up your look if you fancy a change.

However, if you are planning to wear your wig less frequently or are wearing a wig for cosmetic reasons, such as fancying a change of hairstyle for the day, you may want to try a synthetic wig to save some more money.

– Where will I wear my wig?

If you’re planning on wearing your wig in warmer weather, steer towards choosing a synthetic hair wig as it will keep its style and not go frizzy in the heat. Plus, synthetic wigs are usually more lightweight than human hair wigs, so they feel more comfortable in hot weather. (A synthetic wig with a wefted construction is a winning combo for a light, airy wig!). You may also want to choose a more affordable, synthetic piece if you’re planning to wear your wig in harsher environments, such as in the gym or on a beach holiday. Different wigs suit different lifestyles, so bear this in mind when choosing your next piece.

– Which type of wig is better for those with hair loss?

If you’re wearing a wig due to temporary hair loss, and your hair is likely to grow back, perhaps consider a synthetic wig that is cheaper and better for the short term.

Alternatively, if you are suffering from long-term hair loss then consider a human hair wig as they last longer when properly cared for and are more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. They’re also beautifully natural!

You may also consider a human hair wig, blended wig or a heat-friendly synthetic wig if you’re not ready to give up styling your hair with heat. If using straighteners or curlers was a key part of your getting ready routine pre-hair loss, then wearing a wig that allows you to maintain this part of your routine may help to ease the transition.

– Is a synthetic or human hair wig easier to style?

Synthetic wigs are easier to style as they will hold their pre-determined style, saving you precious time and effort as you’re getting ready. However, remember that you cannot style a synthetic wig with heat.

If you prefer having more control over your hair style, you may find a heat-friendly synthetic wig or a human hair wig easier to work with as these pieces have fewer styling limitations.

With these pointers in mind, you should be fully equipped to make a well-informed wig decision, and it’s time to browse our fabulous range of human hair wigs and synthetic wigs! If you have any questions regarding synthetic hair vs human hair, do not hesitate to get in touch and one of our team members will be happy to help!

Comments

10 thoughts on “Synthetic Wigs vs Human Hair Wigs”

Larry says:

5th August 2020 at 6:05

Thanks Sharon, for the comment.
I still wear synthetics as well as human hair — pretty much for the reasons you stated. It’s just I only just recently noticed how different the two feel, and why I failed to notice the difference since wearing wigs from the mid 1990s, I’ll never understand. Anyway since it was an advice blog, I thought I’d share my little gem of knowledge.
God bless,
Larry
Sharon says:

5th August 2020 at 3:55

Hi Larry, I originally had human hair but disliked the full cap and they felt unnaturally thick to me as I had only ever been used to fine hair. I only ever wear synthetic now and honestly find it brilliant. Its less heavy to wear but I don’t have anyone wishing to touch it so maybe that would make a difference.
Larry says:

5th August 2020 at 2:45

I have both human hair wigs and synthetic fiber wigs, as the article says there are advantages for each kind. I recently experienced something that already have when you first started wearing wigs, but took me several decades.

When on a date, and the lady wants to touch or play with my “hair”, I have to be wearing a human hair wig. Synthetic wigs feel “harsh” and too coarse for my date to enjoy the feel of it.

My current favorite wig is synthetic and while washing it, I realized I could not wear it on an upcoming date because of how rough it was to the touch.

For intimacy, I think you have to wear a human hair wig if you want your date to touch your “hair” and if they didn’t realize you’re wearing a wig, they will just by how it feels.

Something to consider,

Larry
Sharon says:

29th November 2019 at 8:07

When I began wearing wigs I felt very vulnerable and bought human hair. Personally I found these bulkier to wear and heavier. I had never had thick hair and human hair for me, looked like a wig. I have found my perfect style and colour in synthetic hair, it feels and looks perfect on and very affordable. I doubt I shall return to human hair wigs. My favourite style is the Ellen Wille Disc wig in Light Mango Mix.
Lizzie says:

16th November 2016 at 10:35

This is a spot on summary – another great post!
Lizzie xxx
Jules says:

16th November 2016 at 10:38

Hi, thank you for this helpful article. I have a couple of synthetic wigs that I have bought in preparation of my hair falling out due to chemo. I find both of them rather puffy when I try them on ( still have quite a lot of my own hair having only had one treatment so far which may contribute to this). Has any one any advise on how to flatten them down a bit? I know they are a good fit having gone to a wig shop who were helpful but the fullness of the wigs will make me feel self conscious. I would be grateful for any advic . Thank you
Deborah Lucock says:

16th November 2016 at 10:23

Hi Catherine, I had a similar experience with a hair replacement supplier who provided me with a VERY expensive sub standard product. They refused me a refund but as I am a very tenacious person (especially when I have been conned due to my hairloss vulnerability) I was simply not willing to lose £1800!!
My advice, IF you paid by credit card, contact your credit card provider and invoke Section 75 (provided your wig cost more than £100 and I’m sure it did). You can find standardised draft letters to help with this on the internet, I think Money Saving Expert has one. I did this and obtained a FULL refund.
admin says:

16th November 2016 at 9:59

Hi Catherine,

Tank you for your comments. Our customers have told us about other companies that also do this. We wrote a couple of articles about this. You can read about them here. I hope this helps 🙂
Catherine Topham says:

16th November 2016 at 9:48

I found this really interesting and I buy both human and synthetic. I would like some advice if you can help. I recently ordered at great cost a human wig from wigsis.co.uk and was sent a rough fancy dress looking wig which they will not allow me to return no matter what I say. I am so upset with this company and they are obviously doing this as standard, conning people with cancer. I have reported them to the ASA but would like to warn everyone not to buy from them. Any advice would be of interest. Many thanks Catherine
Cathy says:

16th November 2016 at 9:40

Great informative article,many thanks.