Human vs. Synthetic Wigs: What’s the Difference & How to Make the Best Choice for You

What is a Human Hair Wig?

A human hair wig is made from real human hair, which provides a natural look and feel. These wigs are crafted from high-quality hair that has been collected, processed, and styled to create a realistic hairpiece. Unlike synthetic wigs, which are made from artificial fibers, human hair wigs can be styled, colored, and treated just like your own hair. Why people CHOOSE to wear wigs is for another blog!

The Choice is Yours

When it comes to choosing between human hair wigs and synthetic wigs, the decision might feel like picking between your favorite pair of shoes—both are great, but one just might make you feel more like a superstar and one definitely lasts longer than the other!

Human hair wigs bring the natural look and feel that synthetic wigs can only dream of. They bounce, shine, and sway like your own hair, so much so that even your closest friends might not guess it's a wig!

But let’s not just stop at the obvious—let’s dive into the juicy details. If you love changing your hairstyle more often than your morning coffee order, then human hair wigs are your best friend. Heat styling? Check. Dyeing for a fresh color? Double check. Cutting and shaping to perfection? You bet! These wigs give you the freedom to be a hair chameleon.

Now, let’s talk dollars and cents. Yes, human hair wigs might ask for a bit more from your wallet upfront, but think of it as an investment in long-term fabulousness. While synthetic wigs might wave the white flag after just a few months (or a few weeks for us gym freaks), human hair wigs are in it for the long haul—sometimes over a year with the right TLC.

And let’s not forget the weather—because who wants to be caught in a frizz frenzy? Human hair wigs don't necessarily protect you from the sun like an accessory sidekick but try standing in the sun with a synthetic wig for more than 30 minutes. You wig might literally start smoking. 

While synthetic wigs are easier on the maintenance side, they just don’t offer the same versatility or lifespan. And if you’re all about that natural look, human hair wigs are the way to go.

Pro Tip: If you’re still on the fence, consider your lifestyle and budget. If you’re someone who loves to switch things up, want a natural look, color, straighten or curl your wig at any time, and keep the wig for a long time, human hair wigs are your match. But if you need something quick, easy, low-maintenance, synthetic might be worth a look.

At the end of the day, the best wig is the one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself!

If you want to dive deeper in the different types of human hair wigs and which one is best for you, make sure you take our "Perfect Wig Quiz"