As specialists in the natural hair of people of African descent, we understand the importance of embracing versatility and style while still protecting our hair. One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is by incorporating wigs into your routine, whether as a protective style or simply to switch up your look without altering your natural hair. Wigs offer a fantastic solution, especially for those of us who want to reduce daily manipulation, protect our hair from the elements, or even as a confidence booster during medical treatments that may cause hair thinning or loss.
Let’s dive into the world of wigs and explore the differences between synthetic and human hair options to help you make an informed decision on what’s best for you.
The Essentials: Human Hair vs. Synthetic Wigs
Material Composition
The first thing to understand is the difference in materials. Synthetic wigs are made from various artificial fibers, whereas human hair wigs are crafted from real human hair. This fundamental distinction impacts everything from how the wigs look and feel to how you care for them.
Appearance
When it comes to appearance, human hair wigs generally offer the most natural look. The movement, shine, and texture closely mimic our own hair, making it difficult for anyone to tell you’re wearing a wig. When choosing a human hair wig, look for the hair “return” to be long versus short. The return is the shorter side of the hair strand that is sewn into the wig. Think of it as the hem on a dress. When the return hair is longer, there is less likelihood for it to give the appearance of short, broken, or frizzy hair, whereas a short return can give the wig the appearance of having broken strands. You also want to ensure the hair looks healthy and does not appear damaged or have a heavy chemical smell.
While human hair wigs are beautiful, don’t shy away from synthetic wigs as they have come a long way, with many now offering a very convincing appearance. When opting for a synthetic wig, look for finer strands of hair that are more similar to Black hair and feel the strands to make sure that the hair is soft like natural hair. Look for a natural luster versus a high glossy shine, and look for the hair to move like natural hair. Give the wig the shake test to ensure it doesn’t shed, and pull your fingers through the hair to ensure you can do so without the hair clumping up or getting frizzy.
With both human and synthetic hair wigs, look for fullness that resembles your natural hair. If the hair is too full, a professional stylist can help thin the hair without ruining your wig, but it is quite a challenge to make a too thin wig look full.
Styling Versatility
For those who love to change up their look frequently, human hair wigs are the way to go. They can be curled, straightened, and even colored, just like your natural hair. This means you can have a new hairstyle for every occasion without the risk of damaging your wig, or your natural hair.
On the other hand, synthetic wigs are more limited in styling options. There are synthetic wigs on the market that claim to be heat resistant, but we recommend testing a small area before applying a significant amount of heat that can damage your wig. The cool thing about synthetic wigs is that they usually come pre-styled, which can be a pro or con, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for something that’s ready to wear with minimal fuss, a synthetic wig might be perfect for you.
Durability and Longevity
Another key difference between synthetic and human hair wigs is durability. Human hair wigs, with proper care, can last for several years, making them a long-term investment. Synthetic wigs, however, typically last a few months, depending on how well they are maintained. Synthetic wigs are more prone to tangling and frizzing, which can affect their appearance over time.
Maintenance
Maintenance is a crucial aspect of wearing wigs, regardless of whether they’re synthetic or human hair. Human hair wigs require the same care as natural hair—regular washing, conditioning, and styling. Synthetic wigs, on the other hand, are a bit more low-maintenance but still need to be kept free from dust, heat, and excessive sun exposure to maintain their appearance.
Cost
There’s also a significant dissimilarity in cost when talking about the difference between synthetic and human hair wigs. Human hair wigs are generally more expensive due to the quality and longevity they offer. However, synthetic wigs are a more budget-friendly option and can still provide a great look at a lower price point. The choice between the two often comes down to balancing your budget with your styling needs and how long you want your wig to last.
Installation
Interestingly, the installation process for both types of wigs is quite similar. It’s all about ensuring a secure and comfortable fit, regardless of the material. Gently shake out your wig to loosen it up, place it on your head, align it with your natural hairline, and adjust the straps and hooks inside for a snug fit.
Making the Right Choice
So, which one should you choose? If you want a wig that offers a natural appearance, styling versatility, and longevity, a human hair wig is the best option. However, if you’re looking for something more cost-effective, easy to manage, and ready to wear, a synthetic wig can be an excellent choice, especially for shorter-term wear. If you are interested in exploring wig options, we recommend wigs from these companies. LuvMyHair has great quality wigs and styles for just about everyone, but we especially love the versatility of the style for our platinum sisters that LadySoul wigs carry.
Remember, wigs are more than just a protective style—they’re an opportunity to express yourself, try out new looks, and feel confident in your hair journey. Whether you’re dealing with hair loss, looking for a break from daily styling, or just want to try something new, there’s a wig out there that’s perfect for you.
At Harlem Natural Hair Salon, we’re committed to helping you find the right hairstyle that suits your needs and complements your natural beauty. If a wig is a styling option that you would like to consider, let’s embrace the versatility of wigs together and continue to celebrate the beauty of natural hair. We have found beautiful and quality wigs at Soul Lady wigs. They even have a great collection for those who are seeking human hair wigs for gray hair.
Harlem Natural Hair– Unleash The Beauty Of Your Natural Hair
Your natural hair deserves a touch of perfection! Harlem Natural Hair is the premier salon in New York, offering best-in-class services to capture your personal style. Specializing in nurturing and enhancing natural textures, Harlem Natural Hair offers a range of services, from styling to color and cuts. Our professional hair stylists first understand what you are looking for, suggest the most suitable hairstyle, and then personalize the style for you. Our commitment to using high-quality products ensures your satisfaction. Our skilled team has years of experience and ensures that every client receives personal care. Our warm and welcoming atmosphere makes Harlem Natural Hair the perfect choice for those seeking a transformative hair experience. Step into Harlem Natural Hair Salon and Step Out With Confidence! Contact us today to book your appointment!