If you're shopping for a wig or hair extension, one of the most important things to consider is whether you want natural hair or synthetic hair. Natural hair wigs and extensions can be more expensive, but they offer a more realistic look and feel. Synthetic hair is cheaper and easier to care for, but it doesn't look or feel as natural. So how can you tell the difference between the two?
Here are some key characteristics to look for:
Texture and Appearance One of the easiest ways to distinguish natural hair from synthetic hair is by texture and appearance. Natural hair has a certain texture and shine that synthetic hair doesn't quite match. Natural hair is also more porous and absorbs moisture, whereas synthetic hair tends to repel it. Look closely at the hair fibers and try to determine whether they look and feel like real hair or not.
Heat Resistance Another way to determine whether hair is natural or synthetic is by heat resistance. Natural hair can withstand heat from styling tools such as flat irons and curling irons, while synthetic hair cannot. If you plan to style your wig or extensions with heat, make sure to check whether it's heat-resistant or not.
Color Variations Natural hair can vary in color and have different shades and tones throughout the strands. Synthetic hair, on the other hand, tends to have a uniform color throughout the strands. If you notice that the hair has a very uniform color, it may be synthetic.
Burning Test A more definitive way to determine whether hair is natural or synthetic is by performing a burning test. To do this, take a small strand of hair and hold it over a flame. If the hair melts, shrinks, and smells like plastic, it's synthetic. If it burns and smells like burning hair, it's natural.
Price Lastly, price can also be a factor in determining whether hair is natural or synthetic. Natural hair wigs and extensions tend to be more expensive than synthetic ones. If you find a wig or extension that seems too good to be true for its price, it may be synthetic.
In conclusion, there are several ways to distinguish natural hair from synthetic. Look at the texture and appearance of the hair, check for heat resistance, look for color variations, perform a burning test, and consider the price. By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to determine whether the hair you're considering is natural or synthetic, and make an informed decision when purchasing wigs or hair extensions.