Wigs demonstrate adaptability and convenience in a society where personal appearance can be altered instantly. The decision between natural hair and synthetic hair is crucial for reasons of cosmetics, comfort, durability, and styling flexibility. But, despite all this variation, one important question remains: How do you know if a wig is made of natural hair? Understanding the difference between a wig made from natural human hair and one created from synthetic fibers is essential for consumers who want the authentic look and feel that only natural hair can provide.
Visual Inspection
Texture Variance
Texture is the first signal to distinguish a real hair wig. Natural hair is variable, unlike synthetic strands which have a regular and uniform texture. This is due to the individual qualities of each hair strand determined by the health, lifestyle and heredity of the original donor. When checking a wig, look for texture disparities characteristic of natural hair.
Color Reflection
Natural human hair has a unique ability to reflect light. The color of a natural hair wig can change slightly under different lighting circumstances, revealing a range of colors and highlights. This is in contrast to synthetic wigs, which have a solid, flat tone due to the chemical colors used in their creation.
Hair Cuticles
Another visible aspect to look at is the hair cuticle. Natural hair strands have cuticles, the outermost layer of the hair shaft. These can sometimes be visible to the naked eye or more clearly under a microscope and suggest natural hair. Synthetic wigs lack this feature because they are made of smooth plastic strands.
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Physical Touch and Sensation
Softness and Movement
Real hair is softer and moves more freely compared to wigs. Run your fingers through the wig; it is more likely to be real if it moves like hair falling through your fingers. Synthetic hair can feel rougher or silkier and may move more slowly, depending on its quality.
Consistency
Individual strands of a natural hair wig may also vary in thickness, which is sometimes detectable upon close physical examination. This is a regular occurrence that reflects the growth pattern of real human hair. On the other hand, synthetic wigs are produced from strands of uniform diameter.
Heat Resistance
Human hair wigs are heat resistant, so they can be styled with curlers or straighteners without damage. Unless they are high-quality 'heat resistant' varieties, synthetic wigs will often melt or become damaged when exposed to high temperatures.
Test Methods
A Test with Water
Dampen the wig to see if it reacts like natural hair. Human hair wigs should become wavy or curly when wet, reflecting the inherent properties of natural hair. Synthetic wigs often fail to change texture with water, retaining their original style due to the synthetic fibers.
A Discoloration Test
Apply a small amount of bleach to an inconspicuous section of the wig. Real human hair should lighten as if it had grown naturally. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are resistant to fading due to their artificial materials and will not change color.
A Burn Test
Carefully light a few strands of hair from the wig. Natural human hair burns quickly and smells like burnt hair, turning to ash when pinched. Synthetic hair melts, clumps together, and emits a distinctive smell of burnt plastic, confirming its artificiality. Natural hair, which is made of proteins such as keratin, will smell like burnt feathers. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, will smell like burnt plastic or rubber.
Loss Test
Gently but firmly comb the wig to observe the shedding. A small amount of shedding is normal for human hair wigs, similar to organic hair. If the wig is shedding excessively, it could indicate a low quality or fake hairpiece.
Heat Styling
How a wig responds to heat styling can provide significant insight. Natural hair allows for a range of styling options, including heat styling tools. In contrast, synthetic hair is often less heat-resistant and can be sensitive to such treatments. Even heat-resistant synthetic wigs are limited in their adaptability compared to natural hair wigs.
Chemical Reactions
Additionally, natural hair can be dyed and react to chemicals just like your own hair, providing the ability to change color. Synthetic hair does not react well to dyes. Chemical processes can easily damage it and cause irreversible changes.
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Price and Longevity
Initial Cost
It is essential to consider cost when determining the authenticity of a wig. Human hair wigs typically command a higher price tag due to their higher quality and labor-intensive creation processes. If the price seems too good to be true for a "natural" wig, it may be synthetic.
Sustainability
Over time, a human hair wig can be a worthwhile investment. With proper care, human hair wigs can last longer than synthetic wigs, maintaining their vitality and appearance. This longevity is a significant factor and often justifies the higher initial cost of purchasing a piece of human hair.
Professional Consultation
Expertise Search
If, after following the methods described above, you are still having trouble determining the nature of your wig, it is wise to seek professional help. An experienced hairdresser or wig expert can provide a reliable assessment of the wig material, based on their experience and knowledge.
Point of Purchase Verification
Additionally, buying from a reputable seller can alleviate many concerns about the authenticity of a wig. Trusted sellers often have return policies and guarantees regarding the nature of their wigs, and they should be able to provide you with the necessary assurance regarding the wig's material.
Conclusion
In conclusion, to check if a wig is real human hair, look at its texture, reaction to water, and reactions to heat. A tactile assessment, visual cues, and a burn test can be revealing. Price and wear over time also give clues to a wig’s material origins. Whether through a personal assessment or an expert consultation, recognizing these signs is essential for those who value the authentic look and versatility of real hair wigs. An informed choice not only fits your style, but also enhances your confidence.At GLAMMANE, we understand that authenticity is paramount when selecting the right wig, especially when you are looking for a specific style like a black bob wig. That is why we focus on providing products that pass the most rigorous testing for natural human hair. Our black bob wigs , as well as our other human hair wigs, are designed to mimic the texture and vibrancy of natural hair, providing an imperceptible and undetectable blend with your own hair. Each wig, whether it is a trendy bob or flowing waves, is meticulously crafted to ensure that it maintains its quality through washing, styling, and daily wear, mirroring the resilience and longevity of natural hair.
We pride ourselves on our comprehensive range of styles that fit a variety of preferences and lifestyles. Our selection includes a variety of lengths, from chic bobs to long, luxurious waves, and a spectrum of curls that cater to every desired look. Our attachment methods, such as glueless options, provide convenience and ease of use, ensuring our wigs are reliable and comfortable for all-day wear. When you choose GLAMMANE, you are choosing a brand that represents quality and a commitment to meeting the stylistic and practical needs of our customers.
