Are you considering hair extensions? You may be researching synthetic hair and wondering if synthetic hair extensions are any good?
With so much choice it can be tricky to know what type of extensions to choose, especially if you haven’t used them before. In our latest blog we discuss the pros and cons of synthetic hair extensions and why investing in real hair extensions from the outset could save you money in the long run.
What are synthetic hair extensions?
Synthetic hair extensions, as the name suggests, are completely artificial and manufactured using acrylic, nylon or polyester fibres. The fibres go through a chemical process to give them a similar look and feel to real human hair. Generally, they come as clip-in extensions and have been pre-died and heat treated into a set style. It’s worth bearing in mind that because these fibres are synthetic the quality, look and feel of the extensions can vary.
Are synthetic hair extensions any good?
So the big question is, are synthetic hair extensions any good? One of the major attractions of synthetic hair is that it’s generally more affordable than real human hair. This can be enticing, but paying less for your extensions means that you compromise on the quality. As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. So let’s look at some of the reasons why, in our opinion, synthetic hair misses the mark compared to real human hair and why you might want to consider investing in some real human hair extensions from the outset.
How long do synthetic hair extensions last?
Synthetic hair will typically last for 2-3 months if worn daily. Some pieces may last longer depending on the quality of the hair. If you’re careful with your hairpiece and avoid heat styling or washing it too often it could last up to 6 months. But you’ll need to store it somewhere suitable to stop it from getting damaged. The fibres are more vulnerable to frizzing, knotting, and tangling than real human hair. The texture, quality, and even the weather conditions can cause the hair to become clumped and knotted.
Because synthetic hair has a shorter life than human hair, the reality is that you could wind up purchasing several hairpieces to maintain your style. Our beautiful Luxury Russian hair extensions can last up to 5 years if properly maintained. Luxurious and strong, it’s the perfect hair to make long-lasting, natural-looking hair extensions.
At the Hair Alchemist, we offer you expert advice and guidance on how to look after your human hair extensions so that they look amazing for longer!
Do synthetic hair extensions look real?
The biggest difference between human hair and synthetic hair is the way it looks and feels. Synthetic hair tends to have a higher sheen and a less realistic look. The fibres can be stiff and move differently to human hair. This can cause an unnatural blend with your real hair making the extensions stand out.
Additionally, it’s generally not recommended to use heat styling on synthetic hair. Doing so can cause the hair to burn, melt or tangle. Once damaged, you won’t be able to reuse your synthetic extensions again.
When it comes to colour matching shades to your natural hair, this can be tricky because synthetic hair is pre-died and can’t be coloured at home or in the salon. Unless you pick the right colour or find an ideal match then your synthetic extensions could look misplaced against your natural colour.
The Hair Alchemist, we have developed a custom colour blending service that expertly matches our human hair extensions to the natural colour of your hair so that your extensions blend seamlessly. We can blend any range of colours and we take the time to match almost each and every strand for a perfectly natural look.
What are the other disadvantages of synthetic hair extensions?
It’s worth noting that synthetic hair can sometimes cause irritation to the skin and scalp. This is because synthetic fibres behave differently to human hair, and can make the scalp warm or less breathable. Sometimes the scalp can become irritated and your natural hair cuticles could become drier.
We believe that every client deserves the very best in luxury hair extensions, that’s why we exclusively use Russian and Slavic hair, which is renowned for being the best in the world. .
All of our real human hair extensions are fitted using safe methods by our skilled technicians who take the time to talk you through our specialist aftercare and maintenance advice.
Get in touch to discuss how we can help you achieve the hair you deserve. Book a free consultation with one of our experts today.