If you’ve been considering hair extensions, you might be wondering whether to invest in synthetic hair extensions or those made with real human hair.

Ultimately, that decision will come down to budget and how you want your hair extensions to look and feel. Only you can decide which is best for you but to help you out, here, we outline the differences between the two.

What are hair extensions made of?

Typically, hair extensions are either made from human hair or they’re synthetic. Human hair extensions are exactly that. They’re made using real hair from a person, which has been donated. 

Synthetic hair extensions have been made using various synthetic fibres and contain no real hair from a human. Put simply, it’s very thin plastic that has been manufactured to look like real hair. But that’s just the start… 

What are synthetic hair extensions?

We gave you a pretty basic explanation above. But if you want to really understand how synthetic hair extensions are made, keep reading.

These types of extensions can be made from a variety of materials - all of which are artificial - like acrylic, polyester and nylon. This is then heated up and passed through tiny tubes in order to create a finished piece which looks and feels like hair.

What are the advantages of synthetic hair extensions?

One of the biggest benefits of synthetic hair over real human hair extensions is the cost. There’s just no denying that they’re the cheaper alternative. This is usually because these hair extensions are made from plastic, and modern technology makes it easier than ever to produce - again bringing the costs down.

Another reason why people choose cheap synthetic hair extensions over the more expensive human hair extensions is because they are more hardy. Whatever the weather, climate or humidity, synthetic hair extensions won’t become frizzy or lose their style. When you buy synthetic hair extensions in a certain color or style - say curly - they’ll remain as good as new, without much care. 

What are the disadvantages of synthetic hair extensions?

As they’re made from plastic, it probably won’t surprise you that synthetic hair extensions can’t handle the heat very well. Usually, you have to stick to the style that the extensions were bought in, making it very hard to switch up your look whenever you fancy it. 

If you want to change your hair color for the new season, you can also think again when it comes to these types of extensions. Again, because they’re made from plastic, they don’t react well to the bleach in hair coloring products. 

If you want to change your hair color for the new season, you can also think again when it comes to these types of extensions. Again, because they’re made from plastic, they don’t react well to the bleach in hair coloring products. 

What are the best human hair extensions?

A quick search online for the best human hair extensions and you’ll soon be drowning in information overload. For us, one of the best human hair extensions is something called remy. In short, it’s made from real human hair that still has the cuticle left in place, leaving locks smooth, shiny and tangle-free. It’s also one of the most cost-effective human hair extensions on the market.

Remy hair extensions have still been chemically treated but the look and feel of natural hair remains for the lifetime. In fact, they often look like they could be your real hair. 

What are the advantages of remy hair extensions?

The main reason that people opt for human hair extensions is because of their appearance. Whether you don’t want people to know you’ve got extensions or you simply want the natural look, these types of extensions are usually more effective than synthetic extensions. 

Why are Remy human hair extensions better than synthetic?

We’ve already mentioned the premium look and feel of natural hair extensions. But that’s just the beginning. Remy hair extensions also allow you to change your hair color as the hair responds well to the same products that your own hair would.

Unlike synthetic hair, remy hair extensions hold their shape and style much better too and move in a more natural way. Human hair extensions can also last for up to one year, retaining their thickness and length, while synthetic should be replaced every three months. 

How can you style natural hair with extensions?

Natural hair extensions can be styled in the exact same way as your real human hair. This also means that they need to be treated like human hair with regular hair washes and maintenance with high-quality hair extension products. 

Heated styling tongs can also be used - in fact, they’re essential if you want to change up your style. As with natural hair though, it’s wise to use a heat protector first. 

Ready to invest in your hair with remy hair extensions? Perhaps you want to try a style out and opt for a clip-in piece to see how you feel? At Cliphair, we have a huge range of extensions, hair care and accessories to help you to breathe new life into your look this season. 

Whilst we do not sell synthetic hair and only offer Remy Hair extensions, our Remy hair pieces are catered for a range of different styles, budget and hair types.. We also have a color match service and advice service to ensure that your new look turns heads for the right reason. 

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