Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (2024)

There are a lot of ways in which hair systems differ from each other but the biggest one is the type of hair. Both human hair and synthetic hair have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages. This is precisely why first-time wearers often end up confused when deciding between the two.

In this detailed blog, Lordhair will share the major differences between human and synthetic hair to help buyers make an informed decision. So, let’s start with what often matters the most to modern wearers.

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (1)

Real vs Synthetic: Appearance

The most noticeable difference between natural hair and synthetic hair is the appearance itself. No matter the quality of the fiber used in a synthetic hair system, it will not look as natural as a hair system with real hair.

A human hair system will not be as shiny as a synthetic one, and this adds to its natural appeal. This is the biggest reason why human hair systems have a great demand globally.

Real vs. Synthetic: Feel

Appearance is important but what about the feel of the hair when you run your hand through your hair? While human hair feels real for obvious reasons, synthetic hair does not because it is not made from the protein, keratin.

Hair systems designed using real human hair deliver a natural feel and are, therefore, widely preferred by men across the world. So, if you are looking for a silky-smooth, hair-like feel, choosing natural hair for your hair system over artificial hair is definitely the best choice.

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (2)

Real or Synthetic: Color

Modern hair system brands like Lordhair retain the original color of human hair since this gives a completely natural finish to the hair system. On top of that, if the wearer wishes to experiment with color, it is easier to do so with natural hair.

Synthetic hair is made from artificial hair fiber and as such it is vulnerable to chemical bleaching and coloring. This can also affect the wearer if they are sensitive to specific chemicals.

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Real vs. Synthetic: Texture

Human hair has many different types of texture. Synthetic hair, however, is textured similarly from top to bottom. The texture of real hair is hard to replicate with artificial fibers hence why synthetic wigs or hair systems do not deliver a natural appearance.

Real or Synthetic: Durability

Durability is where synthetic hair really makes a dent in human hair systems. If used in a hair system, artificial hair can last more than a year. Two years if worn with extreme care! In comparison, a high-quality human hair system has a small lifespan of three to five months. Add a month more if you take good care of it!

While synthetic hair does not lose its sheen with time, real hair does since it is not getting any nourishment from the scalp.

Real vs. Synthetic: Climate

Climate is a big factor when the suitability of synthetic hair wigs is being discussed. Artificial hair is notorious for heating up in the summer and the hair struggles to keep the scalp cool. On the contrary, human hair plays a crucial role in making a hair system breathable meaning your scalp will be cool even in the scorching summers.

Bear in mind that climate can affect the appearance of hair. Human hair, for example, will frizz or it will fade from sunlight whereas climate will not cause any change in appearance to synthetic hair.

Our recommendation: Get yourself a breathable French lace hair system!

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (3)

Real or Synthetic: Sensitivity

Human hair restores moisture every time it is conditioned and nourished the right way. This prevents it from getting damaged from direct heat, sweat, dust, and other natural elements. That said, hair systems made of 100% human hair require regular care and upkeep to maintain their quality.

A synthetic hair system, on the other hand, cannot retain moisture even if you treat it with a conditioner. Therefore, it needs extreme care when worn in hot climates. This drawback also makes it unsuitable for places of work where the heat is more than normal.

Real vs. Synthetic: Price

Hair systems made of real human hair usually carry a bigger price tag because real hair is expensive and sourced from all over the world. In comparison, synthetic hair is cheap so hair replacement products made with it end up being less costly.

That said, buying your human hair system directly from the manufacturer rather than from a meditator can greatly reduce the cost.

That brings an end to our in-depth comparative analysis of human hair and synthetic hair.

Real and Synthetic Hair Comparison: Final thoughts

Modern hair systems are changing the lives of people struggling with hair loss and they are doing it without the risks that come with surgery and medication. In the last decade, Lordhair has transformed hundreds of thousands of lives with its growing range of human hair replacement systems. To give you a real-life example, check out how our human hair replacement systems have made a difference for John’s.

Order your first human hair system from Lordhair and get a discount along with lightning-fast delivery. If you are unsure about anything then send in your hair system-related queries to support@lordhair.comand our team of hair experts will happily help you out.

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (4)

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? (2024)

FAQs

Human Hair or Synthetic Hair: What’s Best for a Hair System? ›

Human hair has many textures, straight, wavy, curly, etc. Hence it's easier to replicate. Synthetic hair is similar from top to bottom, hence it cannot match your own hair texture. For this reason, human hair is advisable for a natural appearance.

Which is better, synthetic or human hair? ›

If you're looking for a hairpiece that looks more natural and has a longer lifespan, opt for human hair. Even though human hair is pricey, you'll realize it was well worth the investment a few years down the line. Human hair not only looks great, but also provides you with endless styling options!

Does synthetic hair last longer than human hair? ›

Human hair wigs tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan compared to synthetic wigs. With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality human hair wig can last for several years. Obviously, heavier use will lead to wearing out quicker, and usually, the cap will start to fail before the hair fiber does.

What is the most realistic hair system? ›

Lace Base. Considered to be an undetectable hair system option, the lace base hair system is preferred by many due to the breathability of this hair system option.

What is a disadvantage of synthetic hair? ›

Disadvantages of synthetic hair:

Not heat resistant – In most cases you can't use any heated appliances or the wig may melt. Prone to frizz – Static builds up in the hair and causes ends to frizz – the hair can tangle and become unmanageable. Not flexible – You can't change the texture or style.

How to tell if hair is human or synthetic? ›

The Flame/Burn Test

This is the one foolproof way of knowing for sure whether the hair is real or synthetic; Pull a couple of long strands of hair out and hold them above a flame – make sure you use a lighter or an unscented candle. If the hair singes and burns upwards while smelling like burnt hair – it is real.

What advantage does human hair have over synthetic hair? ›

Durability. They may cost more, but human hair wigs last two to three times longer than synthetic wigs and can last up to 1 year (of daily use) with proper care.

Is human hair more expensive than synthetic? ›

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.

Does synthetic hair look like real hair? ›

The fake hair strands are made out of man-made fibers like acrylic or nylon. The fibers are put through various chemical processes to give them a similar look, feel, color, and styling capability as human hair.

How long can you keep synthetic hair? ›

Synthetic wigs can comfortably last between 4 to 6 months with daily use, and a little longer when worn less regularly, where at this point, it might not look quite as fresh as it first did. However, the longevity of your wig can be affected by different factors, predominantly coming down to the way you care for it.

Do celebrities use hair systems? ›

In the world of Hollywood and entertainment, appearance is often paramount, and many celebrities are under constant scrutiny when it comes to their looks. While some choose to embrace their natural hair loss, others opt for hair replacement systems to regain their confidence and maintain their signature style.

Which hair system base is best? ›

Monofilament hair systems

The monofilament base is the most durable in our range, which offers an economical choice that represent excellent value for money. This is a more traditional base material that has been popular for many years due to its strength and durability.

How bad is synthetic hair? ›

Harmful chemicals such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are commonly found in synthetic hair fibers. These chemicals can be linked to a range of health issues, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even cancer.

What not to do with synthetic hair? ›

Never squeeze, rub or wring your wig while drying. Remove from towel. TIP: Do not brush the wig while it is wet or damp, or use dryers as it will damage the synthetic fibres. However, you can absolutely comb when wet, as long as it is with a long tooth plastic comb, ends to roots through.

What is the safest synthetic hair? ›

EZBRAID is
  • 100% PVC FREE. ​ The Safetest Synthetic Hair. ​ Safe for Kids. No Acrylonitrile. No Polyvinyl Chloride.
  • TOXIC & ITCH FREE. ​ Made with Antibacterial Fiber. ​ No Phthalates. No Dioxin. No Hair Dye.
  • ECO - FRIENDLY. ​ Nature & Environment Friendly. ​ Recyclable. Recyclable. Recyclable.

Does synthetic hair damage real hair? ›

Unlike human hair, synthetic hair isn't as breathable, and with your natural hair tucked way under it, there's potential for bacteria and fungus to form and cause itching and scalp inflammation. These factors can lead to hair shedding and an uncomfortable wear of your protective style.

Which hair is the best quality? ›

Grade 10A hair is the highest quality you can get at present. It is the most expensive as well at a cost of thousands dollars. It's 100% unprocessed virgin hair from one donor with thick strong ends. They can be dyed to light color at the least damage.

Does synthetic hair look fake? ›

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.

What is a disadvantage of wearing machine-made wigs? ›

Many cancer patients have a sensitive scalp, and using machine-made wigs causes scalp damage. Weight: Because thicker caps for wigs add weight, they are much heavier than hand-tied Wigs. Durability: Strands might not be secured into the cap while sewing with machines leading to a decrease in their life-span.

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