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A monofilament is a type of wig cap construction upon which a fine layer of transparent micro-mesh is inserted at the parting, crown or top area. Each strand of hair is then individually hand-tied to this layer of mesh to mimic natural hair growth and to give a natural appearance. They are ideal for individuals seeking a natural-looking and comfortable wig solution, whether for fashion purposes, hair loss, or medical reasons.

The key features that a monofilament wig can have, include:

• Monofilament Top: The top of the wig is made from a fine, breathable mesh material known as 'monofilament'. Individual hairs are hand-tied to the monofilament, allowing for a natural look and versatile styling.
  
• Monofilament Part: Only a section of the wig, typically along the parting line, is made from monofilament. This offers a more affordable option while still providing a natural look at the part.
  
• Monofilament Crown: The monofilament material is concentrated at the crown of the wig, giving a natural appearance at the top while the rest of the cap may be constructed from other materials.

The benefits include:

• Natural Look: The hand-tied construction and realistic scalp appearance help the wig look natural.
  
• Comfort: Lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for those with sensitive scalps or undergoing medical treatments.
  
• Styling Flexibility: The ability to part the hair in any direction allows for more styling options.
  
• Durability: High-quality monofilament wigs can be more durable and long-lasting compared to other wig types.
  

Yes, you can easily change the parting if your wig features a monofilament or hand-tied cap construction, as these types offer greater flexibility as they are constructed with individual hairs hand-tied to the cap material, allowing for natural movement and versatility.

However, if your wig is synthetic, it is very unlikely that you can alter the parting effectively due to the limitations of synthetic fibres and construction methods. They are typically constructed with pre-set partings and styles, as the fibres are manufactured to maintain their shape and style. Attempting to change the parting on a synthetic wig can be challenging and may not yield satisfactory results.

If you're looking for the most natural look and feel, a human hair wig is hard to beat. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your lifestyle, budget and how much time you'd like to spend on styling and maintenance.

Human hair wigs offer incredibly natural movement and can be styled just like your own hair. You can curl, straighten, cut and even colour them, giving you complete flexibility to create the look you want. With the right care, they can also last between one and three years making them a long-term investment.

Synthetic wigs, however, have their own advantages. They're easy to care for, hold their style after washing and are ready to wear with very little effort. They're also generally more affordable, making them a fantastic option for everyday wear or for anyone who prefers a low-maintenance routine.

Many people enjoy having both. A human hair wig offers styling versatility for special occasions or everyday confidence, while a synthetic wig is perfect when you need something quick, convenient and ready to wear whatever the weather.

If you're weighing up the pros and cons, our guide to human hair vs synthetic wigs compares both options in more detail, helping you decide which is the best fit for you.

Human hair wigs are more expensive because the raw material is real hair and high-quality hair is both carefully sourced and in limited supply. Remy human hair costs more again, as the cuticles are kept intact and every strand is aligned in the same direction – a slow, skilled process that helps creates a longer-lasting wig. If you choose a hand-tied cap, each strand is individually knotted by hand, adding many hours of expert craftsmanship.

Although the initial cost is higher, it's worth thinking about the cost over the lifetime of the wig. With the right care, a human hair wig can last one to three years, while a synthetic wig is more likely to last around four to six months with daily wear. Over time, the difference in cost can be much smaller than it first appears.

If your hair loss is due to a medical condition or treatment, you may also be eligible for VAT relief in the UK. Our guide to VAT relief on wigs explains who qualifies and how to claim. If you're shopping on a budget, we also have advice on how to find more affordable wigs without compromising on quality.

With the right care, a human hair wig that's worn every day will typically last between one and three years. If you wear it less often you can expect it to last even longer.

How long your wig lasts depends on how it was processed during manufacturing and how well it's cared for afterwards. Washing it gently, following the manufacturer's care instructions, storing it on a wig stand away from direct sunlight and heat and limiting heat styling will all help extend its lifespan. If you wear a wig every day, rotating between two wigs can also reduce wear and help both last longer.

For more advice, take a look at our guides on how long wigs last, washing a human hair wig and keeping human hair wigs tangle-free.