E Report / Aug 15th, 2018
Photo of woman from the back, running her hands through long, brown, wavy hair

Natural Wigs vs. Synthetic Wigs

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 (unless, like our Envyhair™ collection, they are a blend designed specifically to withstand heat).

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).

Visit to your local Envy Wigs retailer to see what works best for you!

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Words of Wigdom
The secret to a perfectly natural look is a slightly imperfect part, says Designer and CEO, Alan Eaton. “Gently reposition strands along the part line or snip a few wispy pieces using manicure scissors—AND some restraint—for a slightly messy part that looks all your own.”

Words of Wigdom™
“Throughout my 20-year career, women’s comfort has always been at the top of my mind,” says Designer and CEO, Alan Eaton, whose Stretch Cap Technology hugs the perimeter while eliminating pressure points for maximum comfort.”


Words of Wigdom™
For first-time wig wearers, “The trick is to stay close to the color of your eyebrows,” notes Designer and CEO, Alan Eaton. If not, “then consider dyeing your eyebrows to match your chosen wig color.”

Words of Wigdom™
“Few people know that wigs can be styled just like natural hair—and that most hairstylists are happy to give your wig a custom cut,” says Designer and CEO, Alan Eaton. “Trimming bangs and shaping to your exact specifications can help make your wig indecipherable from your own natural hair.”

Words of Wigdom™
“The “Grey Hair, Don’t Care” trend—which saw women embracing their grey—is stronger than ever. And not just with the over-50 crowd. “Silver is chic, edgy and looks great on almost anyone,” says Designer and CEO, Alan Eaton, who offers nearly every EnvyHair™ and synthetic style in 3 multi-dimensional grey shades.”

Words of Wigdom™

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