Synthetic crochet hair is a popular option for many looking to achieve stylish and protective hairstyles such as curls, box braids, twists, and faux locs. However, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here's a complete overview:
Advantages
1. Affordability:
- Cost-Effective: Synthetic hair is significantly cheaper than human hair, making it very accessible
- Frequent Changes: Its lower cost allows individuals to try different styles more frequently.
2. Variety and Versatility:
- Wide Range of Options: Available in numerous colours, textures, lengths, and styles, including ombre and multi-tonal options.
- Consistency in Appearance: Synthetic hair tends to maintain its style, texture, and colour without much variation over time.
3. Low Maintenance:
- Style Retention: Often holds styles, such as curls and waves, better and longer than human hair.
- Less Maintenance: Doesn't require as much upkeep as human hair, making it convenient for those with busy lifestyles.
4. Durability:
- Strength: Many synthetic fibres are strong and can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Typically hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Disadvantages:
1. Natural Look and Feel:
- Texture: May not feel as soft or natural as human hair. Some varieties can be shiny and plasticky.
- Appearance: While high-quality synthetic hair can look very similar to human hair, under close scrutiny, it may feel less natural.
2. Heat Sensitivity:
-Styling Limitations: Standard synthetic hair cannot be exposed to high temperatures without risking melting or damage. Special "heat-resistant" or "heat-friendly" types are needed for heat styling.
-Heat-Friendly Options: Even heat-resistant varieties generally have lower heat tolerance compared to human hair.
3. Tangling and Matting:
- Prone to Tangling: Synthetic hair can tangle and mat more easily, requiring careful handling.
- Difficult to Detangle: Once tangled, it can be challenging to manage and restore to its original condition.
4. Limited Lifespan and Restyling:
- Shorter Lifespan: Tends to have a shorter lifespan than human hair, especially with frequent wear and manipulation.
- Restyling Challenges: Once a style is set, it can be difficult to change without damaging the synthetic fibres. They aren't as flexible as human hair for restyling.
Care Tips:
1. Gentle Handling:
- Detangle Carefully: Use your fingers to gently detangle from the ends up to the roots.
-Minimal Manipulation: Avoid brushing or combing to extend its lifespan unmanageable knots are better cut out than brushed out
2. Washing:
Remember less washing is better for your install to last longer
- Watered down Shampoo: Use a mild, watered down, sulphate-free shampoo and lukewarm water. Watered down shampoo is easier to wash out of braids and cornrows avoiding build up. Wash infrequently to prevent wear and tear.
-Air Dry: After washing, gently blot with a towel and allow to air dry.
3. Avoid Heat:
- No Heat Styling: Unless the hair is heat-resistant, avoid using curling irons, flat irons, or blow dryers.
- Cool Water: Use cool or lukewarm water when washing.
4. Bedtime Routine: See follow up post
Ultimately, synthetic crochet hair can be a fantastic option for those looking to experiment with different styles without a significant financial investment. Understanding its limitations and benefits, as well as how to care for it properly, will help you make the most of synthetic crochet hair.
Comments