What is Synthetic Hair? What Does Synthetic Hair Mean? (2024)

Skip to content

Shop Simply Wigs

Make your appointment

The magazine blog from the Simply Wigs Community

What is Synthetic Hair? What Does Synthetic Hair Mean? (2)

By | January 27th, 2020 | Wig Reviews

WHAT DOES SYNTHETIC HAIR MEAN?

Synthetic hair is used in the production of wigs and hairpieces and is much less complex than people may think. To prove it we have created this mini-guide to all things regarding synthetic wigs. It includes what they’re made from, how long they can last, the benefits of synthetic hair and also some expert synthetic hair care tips!

It’s a commonly asked question which pops up when discussing what synthetic hair actually is. Well, using man-made fibres, fine threads are manufactured to create synthetic hair which is formed from polymers and designed to look and feel as similar to human hair as possible. These threads can then be made into a wig, weave or extensions to create an alternative to human hair products.

SO, WHAT IS SYNTHETIC HAIR MADE OF ?

What is Synthetic Hair? What Does Synthetic Hair Mean? (3)

Unlike human hair, there is no keratin in synthetic hair. The man-made polymers used to create synthetic hair are often paired with plastics. When asking, what is synthetic hair made from? You should be aware that there are various types of plastics that can be used to make synthetic hair, with an example of a few are here:

Acrylonitrile Acrylic
Polyethylene-terephthalate PVC
Silicone Single-filament polyester
Silk Vinyl

In addition, natural polymers and cellulose can also be used instead in some cases, so be sure to check what types your synthetic wig is made of before you buy it should you have a specific preference. For more information on the differences between human hair and synthetic hair, please see our previous blog post on the subject.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that due to synthetic hair being so effective in retaining shape, it can be difficult to re-style synthetic wigs. Typically heated products shouldn’t be used on synthetic fibres, as it can cause serious damage to the hair. Although there are a lot more heat-friendly synthetic wigs available, even these can prove difficult to re-style.

How long does synthetic hair last for?

Overall, if cared for properly, synthetic wigs generally have a lifespan of about 4-6 months of daily wear. However, if you are switching things up in your wig collection and don’t wear the same wig each day, this could mean they last much longer.

Best practise care for synthetic hair

In order for you to keep your synthetic hair in the best condition possible, for the longest length possible, it’s important that your day to day hair routine is synthetic hair friendly. We recommend the following:

1.

Make sure your wig stays as de-tangled as possible, using a wig comb or brush. You can always read our guide on how to untangle a wig, should you need further help with this.

2.

When you wash your synthetic hair, it needs to be in cold water and then air-dried after, with this routine occurring every few weeks.

3.

When styling and washing, it’s important to always use the right styling products, ones that are made specifically for synthetic hair.

4.

We often get asked about the shine that some synthetic wigs can have due to the man-made fibres they’re made of. In order to make these look more natural and less shiny, please check out our post explaining the best way to remove shine from a synthetic wig.

We hope you now have a better understanding of synthetic hair! Should you wish to have a look at our own collection of synthetic wigs and related products, then please head back to our online store

View Post

Comments

One thought on “What is Synthetic Hair?

  1. Hi
    Nice to see an article from a trans person. I am trans and have bought from you before and have been pleased with the service. Being in Guernsey I have to buy on line as I don’t travel to the UK so much now. I would rather come in for a try on session.
    The most difficult thing to choose and understand is the colour options. The best thing is your front of message picture of the various wigs on heads marked with the colour names. With them being side by side it is so much easier to understand the colour differences. Might you do that as a marketing tool it would be really helpful.
    Bethany

Leave a comment

You might also like

Wig Reviews

3

Wig Cap vs No Wig Cap

Read More about Wig Cap vs No Wig Cap

Wig Reviews

My Jon Renau review

Read More about My Jon Renau review

What is Synthetic Hair? What Does Synthetic Hair Mean? (2024)

FAQs

What is the meaning of synthetic 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.

What hair is synthetic? ›

Synthetic hair wigs are made from strands of man-made materials, such as plastic or acrylic. Synthetic hair fibers are made to closely resemble the look and movement of human hair. Synthetic wigs are widely available, more affordable than human hair wigs, lightweight, and easy to take care of.

Does synthetic hair damage hair? ›

For many women, wearing a weave or extensions is a great way to switch up their hairstyle, adding length, volume, and even color. However, while these hairstyles offer a range of possibilities, wearing them can damage your natural hair and even cause hair loss if proper precautions and care are not taken.

What is the meaning of artificial hair? ›

an artificial covering of hair for all or most of the head, of either synthetic or natural hair, worn to be stylish or more attractive. a similar head covering, worn in one's official capacity, as part of a costume, disguise, etc. a toupee or hairpiece.

Does synthetic hair last longer? ›

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.

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 look fake? ›

Because synthetic hair is made from artificial material, it may never truly look like human hair, can be stiff or move differently, have an unnatural shine, and be more noticeable as a hair piece.

Can synthetic hair be washed? ›

Take care not to pull or stretch the hair fibers. Wash: Fill a basin with cool water and add a capful of shampoo designed for washing synthetic wigs. Dunk the wig in the water and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse: Swish the wig through the water to remove the shampoo.

Which is better, human or synthetic 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!

What should you not use on synthetic hair? ›

We do not recommend to use standard hair care products, as they are not suitable for the cap construction and for the hair of your synthetic wig.

What are the 4 disadvantages of synthetic hair? ›

Cons
  • Cannot be colored. Traditional hair dyes won't adhere to the synthetic fibers, and the chemicals will melt the wig.
  • Shininess. Synthetic wigs often have an unnatural shine to them. ...
  • Less Versatility. Most synthetic wigs can't be heat styled or worn while cooking.
  • Longevity.

Can synthetic hair grow mold? ›

Store your synthetic hair in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Humidity can compromise the integrity of the synthetic fibers and cause mold or mildew growth.

Can synthetic hair grow? ›

If you cut the artificial hair fibers, they won't grow back, which means you'll need to stick with the same hairstyle. Artificial hair won't age in the same way as hair that is natural, so you may see colour and texture differences as you age.

What is natural synthetic hair? ›

As the name implies, synthetic extensions are made of artificial materials and don't contain human hair. They can be made from polyester, nylon, or acrylic, which are heated and then sent through microtubes to mimic the natural strands.

How can you tell if human hair is 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 is the difference between synthetic hair and wigs? ›

Human hair wigs offer unparalleled realism and styling versatility but come at a higher price point and require more maintenance. On the other hand, synthetic wigs are more affordable and require less upkeep, but may lack the same natural appearance and styling options.

Is braiding hair synthetic hair? ›

Hair extensions used for braiding consist of either human hair or synthetic fibers. Synthetic extensions tend to be used more frequently due to affordability.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Dan Stracke

Last Updated:

Views: 5496

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (63 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dan Stracke

Birthday: 1992-08-25

Address: 2253 Brown Springs, East Alla, OH 38634-0309

Phone: +398735162064

Job: Investor Government Associate

Hobby: Shopping, LARPing, Scrapbooking, Surfing, Slacklining, Dance, Glassblowing

Introduction: My name is Dan Stracke, I am a homely, gleaming, glamorous, inquisitive, homely, gorgeous, light person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.