Synthetic Hair Vs. Human Hair: Which Is Better for Extensions?

The world of hair extensions is only continuing to grow, and with the growth comes a large variety of materials being used to create hair extensions and new styles hitting the market. What once felt like something only celebrity A-listers could access is now a global sensation available to everyone and anyone! The secret to the thick, long, healthy-looking hair you see on your favorite celebrities and influencers is human hair extensions, we promise you!

However, there's something in the hair extensions market you should look out for on your quest for hair that will blow your mind and last you a long time - synthetic hair extensions. Now, synthetic hair extensions are for you if you're after something you will only use once and don't need a heated tool to style!

This blog is about noting the difference between natural human hair extensions and synthetic ones and whether the difference matters.

Human Hair Vs. Synthetic Hair Extensions

Have you ever wondered what the difference is? Are human hair extensions that much better? Or can synthetic hair extensions work best for you? Check out our complete guide to human hair vs. synthetic hair extensions here!

1. Shade

Human hair extensions make use of multi-tonal technology for ultra-natural shades. They are often available in ashy tones that synthetic hair extensions are not available in and can be toned and dyed to match your hair.

Synthetic hair extensions are usually flat, single-toned, with unnatural-looking shades. Often they are very warm-toned shades with no ashiness and cannot be toned or dyed to match your hair.

2. Texture

Human hair has a softer, silkier, and more moisturized texture. These extensions are made from a natural protein and are much more delicate to the touch.

Synthetic hair extensions have a rougher, dryer texture as they are not made from natural proteins and therefore do not retain moisture. Consequently, they are much harsher and dryer to touch. Often synthetic hair will clump together when connected.

3. Look And Feel

Human hair extensions are ultra-soft and silky. They feel healthy and have a natural shine to them. They will be flexible and smooth when applied. Running a brush or your fingers through is much easier, allowing quick and effortless detangling.

Synthetic hair feels much less soft and silky. They are often lackluster and look artificial. They are much less flexible than human hair and can feel stiff when worn or touched. They can be challenging to run your fingers or a brush through, making detangling difficult.

4. Wear

Human hair looks and feels natural when applied with seamless blending. This hair is also less prone to tangling or matting.

Synthetic hair can have unnatural results, with difficulty blending with natural hair. This hair is also much more likely to tangle and matte.

5. Styling

Human hair extensions can be heat-styled like your hair and handle higher temperatures. These sets are much more ideal for curling and creating different styles.

Synthetic hair cannot be safely heat-styles, and often singes/melts at high temperatures. These sets are ideal for applying and suitable for one look without needing style.

6. Burn Test

Human hair will burn slowly with little to no smoke. Burnt human hair will also easily wash off after being lit.

Synthetic hair will burn much faster with black smoke. The hair will melt together and ball up into clumps.

7. Lifespan

Human hair will last approximately 3 to 12 months or more, depending on care regimes and frequency of use.

Synthetic hair extensions have a shorter lifespan and are much more ideal for just a few uses.

8. Cost

Human hair wigs and extensions are typically more expensive than synthetic hair because of their higher quality and durability. However, the cost can vary depending on the human hair's length, quality, and origin.

Conclusion

Last but not least, synthetic hair extensions don't look natural! From far away, they can pass as human hair, but after closer inspection, you'll notice the Barbie-like artificial fakeness - no one wants that. The more you wear synthetic hair extensions, the more tangled they become, making them look noticeably fake. With all that being said, we hope we don't say biased when we say human hair extensions are worth the investment because you'll get more bang for your buck.

Ultimately, the choice between synthetic and human hair extensions comes down to personal preference, budget, and desired look and style. It is recommended to consult with a professional stylist to determine which type of extensions is best suited for your hair type, lifestyle, and needs. And there are the most popular brands like Diva Divine, 1 Hair Stop, Nishhair, etc., you can visit easily, and they give you premium quality and affordable prices.