Not all wigs are created equally. Wigs fall into one of two categories: either synthetic wigs or natural human hair wigs. As the name suggests, synthetic wigs are made with manufactured materials. Natural or human hair wigs are wigs created with human hair. Although the two have different benefits and drawbacks, they can look very similar. Ruby Renee Wigs can help you learn the difference and decide which one is the perfect fit.
While synthetic wigs may have many pros, they lack that natural feel and longevity. In addition, their cost can skyrocket if you’re looking for a wig that perfectly mimics natural hair, whereas, with wigs of human hair, that’s an automatic part of even the cheapest natural hair wig.
Although natural hair wigs are more expensive because of their extensive fabrication process and one-of-a-kind nature, they can’t be beaten in versatility, styling, and look or feel. This is the reason we think natural hair wigs are the way to go.
When buying a wig, weighing the pros and cons is an integral part of the process. We’ve made a comparison so you can see the pros and cons of synthetic wigs VS natural hair wigs.
Pros Of Wigs With Human Hair
- Natural Look: They feel and act natural. They also look natural and give a very effortless appearance.
- Styling: Some natural hair wigs can be colored or permed. (Be sure to bring wigs to stylists skilled with natural hair wigs)
- Longevity: When adequately cared for, wigs with human hair can last multiple years, even when worn daily.
- Texture: Because these wigs created with human hair, they come in all different textures (curly, straight, wavy, etc.)
Cons Of Wigs With Human Hair
- High Maintenance: Since these wigs are made of human hair, they need to be washed, conditioned, and re-styled, just like a natural head of hair. More labor-intensive than synthetic wigs, human hair wigs require skill and time to style.
- Cost: Harvesting natural materials always cost more, with human hair wigs this is no exception. (Please note that if you have a medical condition that makes a wig necessary, you might be able to get a wig covered by your medical insurance)
- Color Scarcity and Fading: Because the hair is harvested from multiple people, human hair wigs can have color fluctuations and be hard to replicate perfectly. The color of natural hair fades under exposure to light. Just like we say “sun-kissed hair,” the same happens to wigs.
- Weight: Synthetic materials are sometimes lighter than natural materials. Therefore, natural hair wigs can weigh more than synthetic wigs.
- Fragile: Natural hair breaks under harsh brushing, overuse of heat-based styling, or back-combing. Natural hair wigs don’t grow in so this breakage can be problematic.
- Weather Matters: Humidity can affect natural hair, making it frizzy, limp, or dry. Other conditions may make a difference to the quality of the hair from day to day.
Pros Of Synthetics Wigs
- Natural Look: High-quality synthetic wigs mimic human hair so closely it’s almost impossible to tell the difference.
- Low Maintenance: Less styling and washing is required, making it easier to take care of. They also have style retention, meaning synthetic wigs don’t have to be styled. Wash, dry, and shake out, and it’s ready to go.
- Cost: Synthetic wigs are less expensive because of more readily available materials.
- Weather Proof: Retains style even in humid conditions.
Cons Of Synthetics Wigs
- Longevity: Synthetic wigs only last from 4-6 months with daily wear.
- Shine: Inexpensive synthetic wigs can have an unnatural glow to them.
- Less Versatility: Synthetic wigs have to be specially heat resistant to use styling tools on. They’re also hard to color.
- Unnatural Look: All synthetic wigs are close to the real thing; there’s nothing like natural hair to give you that movement and look of real hair.
- Cost: While regular synthetic wigs are less expensive, the price will be high if you’re specifically looking for one that will pass as natural hair. Only the higher quality, more expensive, synthetic wigs do a phenomenal job passing as natural hair.
Choosing What's Best Out Of Human Hair Wigs and Synthetic Wigs
Choosing a wig is an intensely personal experience. This is how you’ll accent your personality, play with your look, and feel most like yourself. Consider the appearance of wigs before buying one, but also consider how it fits into your life. Wigs are an excellent way to show your personality and put an exclamation point on your outfit.