Human Vs. Synthetic Hair Extensions

Yet another hair debate! Are you “Team Human” or “Team Synthetic Hair”? I’ve been asked this question countless times, and though the trend says that human hair is better, I stand my ground in the middle. It really depends. I like the flexibility of going back and forth between human and synthetic hair extensions, and feel that both have their own benefits as well as downfalls. Let’s discuss:

Human Hair 

Pros:

1. Investment: Anyone who knows me knows that I have had the same bundles of hair for over 2-3 years now. Once I find a great brand of hair I stick with it and buy it in several different textures. To put it simply, a good bundle of hair will last you what feels like forever!

2. Customization:  I have literally bleached, dyed, cut and relaxed my extensions and they still look great after several installs! Human hair is amazing in that you can customize your look just as if it were your own hair growing from your scalp. Human hair is also able to be heat styled, allowing you to do a relaxed straight look or even a tight sexy wand curl.

3. Blending: Human hair tends to blend better with human hair! DUH!!! If you buy hair that is a texture close to your natural one, your blending possibilities are endless, and your results look even more seamless and natural.

Cons: 

1. Investment: Those bundles that have lasted me years and years worth of installs? Well, I spent over three months rent on my hair supply! That may sound outrageous, but the ROI is well worth it. Just think about it! If you go to the beauty supply store and buy some cheaper human hair you may at most get 1-2 installs out of it, and it’s bound to be a headache of tangled mess by the end of its last install. The more luxurious hair doesn’t tangle anymore than your real hair, and the most difference you will see over time is that the hair needs to have a proper trim (yep, your weave gets split ends, too!)

2. Maintenance:  You wouldn’t go three months without washing and cleaning out your Bentley, would you? Well the same goes for luxury human hair. It must be maintained. Regular cleansing, conditioning and trims are important in order to keep this hair in tip-top shape.

3. Hit or Miss:  It took me five years to find my favorite luxury hair brand. Finding a place with the right price, texture, customer service and quality can be a headache. There are so many people out there peddling weave to the point that it can be a nightmare weeding out the good and the bad. Some hair companies get away with mixing a percentage of their 100% human hair bundles with synthetic, making its quality not so great, but allowing them to sell it less expensive. Don’t be fooled!

Synthetic Hair

Pros

1. Versatility:  I personally enjoy synthetic hair for curly half wigs. They are so simple and versatile, and the more you wear them the more natural they begin to look. These low maintenance units are great for an in-between style, and when you just simply don’t feel like doing ANYTHING with your hair!

2. Inexpensive:  You can buy a pack of synthetic hair at some beauty supply stores for as low as $1, and can get yourself a decent looking wig for $12. This is a great way to change up your look on a budget.

3. Accessible: Every beauty supply in America sells synthetic hair, and there really isn’t much thought that has to go into this type of purchase. It comes in a few different brands and hair textures. No real chance at getting something unexpected.

Cons

1. Lifespan: Though some brave divas make an attempt to wear their synthetic hair for longer periods of time, the unfortunate truth is that this type of hair is not meant to be anything but temporary. Synthetic hair and wigs worn on a consistent basis really don’t look great after a few weeks. In fact, if it is worn beyond its intended lifetime, it can begin to look extremely matted and unflattering.

2. No Versatility: Synthetic hair is meant to be worn in the style you bought it in. There is no real customization to it. If you wanted burgundy hair, then you need to buy it in that color. If you want a body wave, you need to buy it in that texture. Synthetic hair is made of plastic fibers that can’t withstand much manipulation let alone heat and chemicals. Try curling your favorite synthetic wig and you might end up with a melted mess!

3. Allergies:  Most synthetic hair is sealed with an alkaline-based coating that often leaves bargain beauties scratching for dear life. If you have sensitive skin you may find that your scalp, neck, and/or face will not agree with your choice of extensions. There are ways to treat the hair (i.e., diluted apple cider vinegar rinse), but for what you pay for it, it can be a headache to have to go through the extra steps!

So, before you decide to declare a side of the synthetic vs. human hair debate think about how maybe you shouldn’t limit yourself. The sky is the limit with your hair!

For more hair care info, visit  KissTheChaos.com and follow me on Instagram: @Ooolala_laa