6 Practical Tips to Identify Human Hair vs. Synthetic Hair
1. The Burn Test
Cut a small strand of the hair. Using tweezers, hold the strand over a non-flammable surface and carefully light it with a lighter or match.
Human Hair: Burns slowly, emits a distinctive odor similar to rotten eggs, and leaves behind ash that can be crumbled.
Synthetic Hair: Melts quickly, emits a chemical or plastic-like smell, and forms a hard, bead-like residue.
2. Texture and Feel
Human Hair: Feels soft and smooth to the touch. When you run your fingers through it, human hair should have a natural texture without feeling overly slick or plastic-like.
Synthetic Hair: May feel smoother or coarser depending on the quality of the fibers. Some synthetic hair can have a slight plastic feel.
3. Sheen and Shine
Human Hair: Typically has a natural sheen that is not overly shiny. It should reflect light in a similar way to natural hair.
Synthetic Hair: Often has a uniform, sometimes overly shiny appearance. This is especially true for lower-quality synthetic fibers.
4. Heat Test
Human Hair: Can withstand heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons. However, it’s important to use heat protectant products to prevent damage.
Synthetic Hair: Most synthetic hair cannot be styled with heat tools. Heat-resistant synthetic fibers can tolerate low to moderate heat, but it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
5. Water Test
Human Hair: When wet, human hair retains its natural texture and appearance. It may also take longer to dry compared to synthetic hair.
Synthetic Hair: Often dries quickly and may not retain water in the same way. It can also return to its pre-styled shape after washing.
6. Color and Dyeing
Human Hair: Can be dyed and chemically treated. It will absorb color and respond to dye similarly to natural hair.
Synthetic Hair: Cannot be dyed with traditional hair dye. Attempting to color synthetic hair can damage the fibers.
Your questions answered
FAQs
How can I tell if my wig is made of real human hair?
You can use the burn test, check the texture and feel, examine the sheen, and try heat styling to determine if your wig is made of real human hair.
Can synthetic hair look as natural as human hair?
High-quality synthetic hair can look very natural, especially when properly styled and maintained. However, it may still lack the fine texture and natural movement of human hair.
Is it safe to perform the burn test at home?
Yes, but you should do it with caution. Always perform the burn test over a non-flammable surface and have water nearby in case of an emergency.
How long does human hair last compared to synthetic hair?
Human hair can last over a year with proper care, while synthetic hair generally lasts around 4-6 months with regular use.
Can I use regular hair products on synthetic hair?
No, you should use products specifically designed for synthetic hair to avoid damaging the fibers.
Why is human hair more expensive than synthetic hair?
Human hair is more expensive because it offers a more natural look and feel, greater styling versatility, and longer durability compared to synthetic hair.
