Synthetic v human hair extensions: which is right for you (2024)

by Emma HoweMar 07, 2024

Synthetic v human hair extensions: which is right for you

Get the most from your hair extensions by choosing the best-suited material for your needs. Not sure about the differences? Delve into this article while we explain the pros and cons of each material to enable you to make the best decision for you.

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Which is cheaper, synthetic hair or human hair?
Which lasts longer: Synthetic hair or human hair?
Fitting methods of synthetic and human hair extensions
Versatility in styling between synthetic hair and human hair
What maintenance is needed?
Which to choose: Synthetic of human hair extensions?

There are significant differences between synthetic hair extensions and human hair extensions. Differences such as the cost, longevity, fitting method, styling capabilities and maintenance can all affect which material is better suited to you. The best choice for you will depend on what you want to achieve and what you expect. Researching the differences can save time and money in the long run. Allow this article to help navigate your understanding of synthetic hair and human hair.

Which is cheaper, synthetic hair or human hair?

The price can be a very important factor when it comes to choosing the right hair extension. Price can vary massively when it comes to hair extensions, you can find synthetic extensions for ten pounds, and "temple hair" for over a thousand pounds, but these are the two extremes, finding good quality

affordable hair extensions

in synthetic and human hair is achievable.

Synthetic hair extensions will always be the cheaper option between the two, but saving on price doesn't mean sacrificing quality. Good quality synthetic hair extensions can be found from

reputable suppliers

. We'd suggest looking for heat-resistant properties of the hair as this usually indicates a better standard of hair which tangles less and looks more realistic.

As a guide, you'd expect to pay between twenty to forty pounds for a good quality synthetic hair extension. This should provide a fibre which looks and feels realistic.

Which lasts longer: Synthetic hair or human hair?

Synthetic hair extensions are only available in clip-in products, meaning they can be taken out when needed, this protects the hair against chemicals, sweat and tangling, the average lifespan is two to three months for synthetic hair. Clip-in human hair lasts longer than synthetic, at around five to six months, the lifespan of professionally fitted human hair is extended to nine to twelve months, this is because professionally fitted hair must be cuticle aligned (Remy) to withstand the semi-permanent use.

Fitting methods of synthetic and human hair extensions

There are two fitting techniques for hair extensions: clip-in, or semi-permeant which includes; tape-in, sew-in, micro-beads, and pre-bonded extensions. Synthetic hair extensions will always be clip-in, while human hair can be found in clip-in and a variety of professional methods.

Clip-in extensions

are great for temporary and easy applications at home, without any professional tools or skills.

They can be clipped into your natural hair and removed as needed. Semi-permanent methods need a professional application and require regular maintenance and strict aftercare to maintain the quality.

Versatility in styling between synthetic hair and human hair

When it comes to styling human hair extensions, the possibilities are endless. Whether you have clip-ins or a professional application, you can achieve a wide range of looks, textures, and lengths. Human hair extensions are versatile and can be styled into braids, updos, or simply for added length and volume. They can also be styled with heated tools such as straighteners, and curlers, and used in intricate styles for special occasions.

Synthetic hair extensions do not offer the same versatility of styling, however, they arrive pre-styled, which means styling is not necessary. You can simply choose the style you like, such as curly, wavy or straight and clip them straight into your hair. This makes synthetic hair extensions very quick in terms of styling and fitting. You may also find more options in synthetic hair extensions, such as trending ponytails, everyday hair buns and various lengths and stylesof clip-in extensions.

Top Tip: Blending your natural hair with any type of extensions is crucial for a seamless look - match the colour and texture, of your hair for a flawless finish.

What maintenance is needed?

Clip-in hair extensions in synthetic and human hair are fairly low maintenance. Listed below are our top do's and don'ts when maintaining the look of your clip-in hair extensions.

Avoid sleeping in the hair
Avoid getting the hair wet when bathing, swimming, sweating
Store appropriately, ideally in a storage box or a hair extension case
Brush before and after use with a specially designed hair extension brush
Remove before any vigorous activity that may cause tangling such as exercising

Semi-permeant hair extensions require professional products and maintenance appointments. As the hair cannot be taken out freely you will also need to avoid certain chemicals that are found in perfume, fake tan, suncream, chlorine and body lotion as they could cause damage or discolouration. There is no doubt human hair that is professionally fitted requires more maintenance.

Which to choose: Synthetic of human hair extensions?

Hair extensions are a fantastic solution to boost your hair confidence. The benefits include adding length, volume, and versatility to your hairstyle. You can find a quality hair extension suitable to your needs, expectations and budget by doing some research. Your requirements may be different from other hair extension users so it's important to outline what features are the most important to you.

Lastly, hair health is important when choosing any type of hair extension, for more information on this topic read our article;

Maintaining Hair Health With Extensions.

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