This is a question I get asked all the time. The first thing to say is that both types of hair extension look natural. However, human hair extensions will reflect light in the same way as your own hair and will blend seamlessly into your hair.

There are five main differences between the two types of hair extensions. Firstly, bear in mind that most synthetic hair extensions will melt if heated with a curling iron or hot rollers. You can style 100% human hair extensions as if they were your own hair!

The second difference is in coloring. Synthetic hair extensions must not be color-treated as irreparable damage will be caused. 100% human hair extensions can be color-treated, but bear in mind that the extension will already have been chemically treated and further coloring may damage the integrity of the hair extension.

Third - humidity will not affect synthetic hair extensions as the style is ‘set’ into the hair. As you probably know, the same cannot be said for human hair. So if you plan a tropical wedding or will be vacationing in a humid climate, a synthetic hair extension may be the way to go. You will certainly spend less time on styling with this option, wherever you are.

The fourth difference is in how long the hair extension will last. 100% human hair will last 3-6 months with proper care, compared to the 1 to 4 weeks use from a synthetic hair extension.

The final difference lies, of course, in the cost. Expect to pay $10 to $400 for a 100% human hair extension compared to $1 to $20 for a synthetic extension.