Whether you are a first time wig buyer or selecting a replacement or secondary wig, there is one question which always bubbles to the surface: Natural or Synthetic? Each type boasts a long list of pros, and there are characteristics of both which may help you decide on the exact right choice when considering your lifestyle, budget, and cosmetic desires.
Stylability
If you enjoy sporting a variety of looks by styling your wig in different ways—blow drying, curling, straightening, etc.—then a natural hair wig is an excellent choice. Because it is created with human hair, it can withstand the heat applied in these manners, just like natural hair can. Synthetic wigs, on the other hand, are very easily damaged by heat styling implements.
Ease
Synthetic wigs are designed to retain their shape, so with a wash and a quick shake, you’ll be on your way with minimal styling. If you are wearing a wig due to health considerations, you may want to opt for a synthetic style for ease of care. A synthetic wig typically requires less washing, since a natural wig may need to be washed frequently for purposes of re-styling.
Color
The color choices for both types of wigs are varied and plentiful. One advantage of human hair wigs is that they can be colored by a hairdresser who has experience working on wigs. There aren’t really any easy options for coloring a synthetic wig, especially if the original color is a dark hue. Synthetic hair doesn’t hold pigments like natural hair, so a different kind of dye is needed.
Cost
The cost for natural hair wigs can be significantly more expensive than synthetic, however they also have a longer life. A synthetic wig can last 4 to 6 months with daily wear, while a natural hair wig may last a year or more. When you are considering cost, it is best to also consider general quality. A poor quality natural hair wig will not look as nice as a high quality synthetic, for example.
Luckily, all of Envy’s wigs are of the highest quality and suit many of our clients’ varied needs. Take a look at our Human Hair collection for some of the best natural wigs on the market. And don’t forget about blends! Our Envyhair™ collection offers the best of both worlds, with a blend of 30% human hair and 70% synthetic fiber that can withstand styling temperatures of up to 356°F (180°C).
