Difference Between "Fake Hair" and Real Hair Wigs

Hello there! If you’ve been searching for fake hair and how it compares to real hair wigs, you’re in the right place. Many people in Malaysia (and beyond) feel confused about “fake” hair vs real human hair wigs – and it’s totally understandable. In this friendly guide, we’ll clearly explain what fake hair really means (hint: it usually refers to synthetic wigs) and how it stacks up against real human hair wigs. By the end, you’ll know all the key differences, pros and cons, and be empowered to choose the perfect wig for your needs. Let’s dive in!

What Does “Fake Hair” Mean? (Understanding Synthetic Wigs)

When people say “fake hair” in the context of wigs, they’re usually talking about synthetic hair wigs. Synthetic wigs are made from man-made fibers (essentially plastic fibers) formulated to look like real hair. In fact, synthetic fake hair is often created from materials like polyester, acrylic, or nylon​. These fibers are ultra-fine and can even be made to mimic the texture of human hair​. The result is a wig that looks like hair but isn’t grown from a human scalp.

So, fake hair wigs = synthetic wigs. They come pre-styled from the factory – curly, straight, wavy, you name it and that style is “baked in” to the fibers. This means a synthetic wig will hold its style even after you wash it. For someone who wants a low-fuss hairdo, that can be a big plus. Fake hair wigs are also widely available. You can find synthetic wigs in a huge range of colors (from natural browns and blacks to bright pinks and blues) and cuts right off the shelf. Because they’re mass-produced from artificial fiber, they tend to be much more affordable than real hair wigs​. A synthetic wig could cost a fraction of a human hair one.

However, since synthetic = plastic fibers, there are some limitations. Heat styling is usually a no-go on fake hair. Trying to use a hot curling iron or straightener can actually melt the fibers​–yikes! (Some newer “heat-friendly” synthetic wigs can handle low heat, but even then caution is needed.) You also generally can’t recolor or dye a fake hair wig; traditional hair dye won’t penetrate the fibers and could ruin them. What you see is what you get in terms of color and texture.

In short, “fake hair” wigs are synthetic fiber wigs. They’re budget-friendly, come pre-styled in many looks, and require minimal daily styling. But they lack the versatility of real hair when it comes to restyling or dyeing. We’ll get deeper into the pros and cons soon.

What Are Real Hair Wigs? (Human Hair Wigs Explained)

As the name suggests, real hair wigs are made from actual human hair. These are often called human hair wigs in stores. Strands of hair are collected (ethically sourced from donors in many cases) and sewn or tied onto a wig cap to create a wig that is literally made of real hair. Because it’s real human hair, the wig behaves very much like natural hair would.

A high-quality human hair wig can look incredibly natural – it’s often hard to tell someone is wearing a wig at all because the hair moves and shines just like genuine hair. You can cut, style, curl, straighten, and even dye human hair wigs just as you would your own hair​. Want to use a curling wand for special occasion curls or flat iron for a sleek look? Go for it (with heat protectant and proper care, of course). The ability to change hairstyles is a huge benefit of real hair wigs for those who love versatility.

However, because these wigs use real human hair and often involve a lot of skilled labor (many are hand-tied for a natural look at the scalp), they come with a higher price tag. Human hair wigs are more expensive than synthetic wigs​, sometimes by a big margin. They also typically require more upkeep. Think of a human hair wig as you would real hair: it needs regular washing, conditioning, gentle brushing, and styling to stay looking its best. After washing, a human hair wig usually needs to be restyled (blow-dried or ironed) because it won’t dry back into a “pre-style” like synthetic fiber would.

Another factor is longevity: if properly cared for, a real hair wig can last a long time – often longer than a synthetic wig would​. Many wearers find they can use a good-quality human hair wig for a year or more of daily wear before it starts to show wear. Some premium human hair wigs (with top-grade hair like Remy hair) can last 2+ years with diligent care. In contrast, a synthetic wig might need replacement after several months (more on that below).

To summarize, real human hair wigs offer the most natural appearance and styling flexibility. They feel and act like your own hair. But they are an investment in both money and maintenance effort.  

A man uses a curling iron on his long human hair wig ,showing that real hair wigs can be heat-styled like natural hair

Synthetic (Fake) vs Real: Key Differences at a Glance

Now that we’ve defined fake hair (synthetic) wigs vs real hair wigs, let’s compare them side by side. Below is a quick comparison table and then we’ll dive into details:

| Aspect | “Fake Hair” Synthetic Wigs | Real Human Hair Wigs |

| Material | Man-made fibers (plastic, like acrylic or polyester)​not actual hair. | Genuine human hair, collected from donors, often handcrafted into wigs.

| Appearance | Can look very realistic, but sometimes has extra shine that gives a “wig” look. New high-quality synthetics are improving. Comes in many preset colors/styles (even fantasy colors). | The most natural look and movement – it is real hair. Typically available in natural hair colors (can be dyed for other colors). Little to no unnatural shine. 

| Touch & Feel | Generally smooth; higher-end fibers can feel soft, but still slightly different from human hair (some may feel a bit coarser or overly silky). | Soft and feels just like real hair (because it is). Quality varies (Remy hair is silky and aligned). Feels natural to run fingers through. 

| Styling Options | Limited: Cannot use hot tools on most synthetics (heat can melt fibers)​. Comes pre-styled and holds its style even after washing. Cannot be recolored with hair dye. You basically wear it as-is (you can trim the wig, but restyling is limited). | Unlimited: Can be curled, straightened, blow-dried, and restyled just like normal hair​. Can be cut by a stylist for perfect framing. Can also be colored/dyed (preferably by professionals) since it’s real hair. You can restyle after washes, change partings.

| Maintenance | Low maintenance: Requires less effort daily. After wearing, just gently brush and store. Washing is needed but not too often (because it doesn’t get oils like real hair). It’s basically “shake and go” styling. | Higher maintenance: Needs regular gentle washing, conditioning, and styling. Like caring for actual hair – use quality shampoo, avoid harsh pulling, regular styling to keep it looking good. It doesn’t hold style after washing, so you’ll spend time restyling. 

| Durability & Lifespan | Shorter lifespan: with daily use, a synthetic wig might last ~4-6 months on average​(some high-end synthetic wigs claim up to a year with excellent care​). The fibers will frizz or lose shape over time, and there’s not much you can do once wear sets in. | Longer lifespan: a well-cared-for human hair wig can last 1-2 years or even longer​. The hair may dry out or fade over time, but you can often revitalize it with deep conditioning or trim the ends. It’s generally more durable in the long run, just like human hair vs plastic. |

| Cost | Budget-friendly: Typically much cheaper than human hair wigs​. Prices can range widely based on quality – from bargain $50 fashion wigs to a few hundred dollars for high-quality synthetic. Overall, great for trying out styles without breaking the bank. | Higher cost: Because they use real hair and intensive labor, human hair wigs are pricey. Expect to invest significantly more (hundreds to even thousands of dollars for premium ones). However, some consider them cost-effective over time since they last longer.

| Comfort | Lighter weight on the head on average (the synthetic fibers themselves are lightweight)​. However, the cap construction and materials will affect breathability – cheaper synthetic wigs might be wefted and less breathable, possibly causing some scalp sweat in Malaysia’s heat. Some people also find certain synthetic fibers a bit itchy on the scalp​ (though wearing a wig cap helps). | Typically a bit heavier than a comparable synthetic wig (human hair has weight), but many human hair wigs are designed for comfort with breathable caps. They often feel secure and natural. If you have a sensitive scalp, real hair might feel better because the hair is natural, but what touches your scalp is the cap material (usually similar materials for both types). Many users find human hair wigs comfortable for long wear. |

| Weather Reaction | Weather-proof style: Synthetic wigs won’t frizz or lose curl in humidity or rain – a big plus in tropical Malaysian weather​. Rain or shine, your synthetic wig stays the same style. (Do keep it away from open flames or high heat like oven doors – intense heat can deform the fibers.) | Weather sensitive: Human hair wigs react to weather like normal hair. Humid day? Your wig can develop frizz or lose some curl definition​. Windy? It might get a bit tangled. You’ll need to restyle or tame it just as you would with your own hair in those conditions. Using good serums or anti-frizz products can help, just as on natural hair. |

| Overall Look “Realism” | Good to Very Good. A high-quality synthetic wig can look very natural to others. But extremely shiny, super-perfect ones can sometimes be spotted as wigs. Also the lack of variation (each strand same exact color, etc.) might make it appear slightly less natural up close. | Excellent. Because it is real hair, it’s often virtually indistinguishable from naturally growing hair, especially if properly fitted and styled to the person. The hair has natural variation and shine that’s hard to fake. |

As you can see, each type has its own strengths. We’ll now break down some of these differences in a bit more detail, and discuss the pros and cons of fake hair vs real hair wigs.

Pros and Cons of Synthetic (“Fake Hair”) Wigs
Pros:

• Affordable: Synthetic wigs are generally much cheaper than human hair wigs​. You can get a great look without spending a fortune. This makes it easy to own a few different styles or colors.

• Low Maintenance & Ready to Wear: They come pre-styled. You don’t need to be a hair expert to make it look good – just shake it out, maybe give it a light brush, and you’re good to go. The style will hold, even after washing. No daily styling required, which is a time-saver.

• Style Stays Put: The curls or straightness are built into the fiber. Humidity or light rain typically won’t change the shape of a synthetic wig​. It won’t go frizzy or limp – a big plus if you’re out and about in Malaysia’s tropical climate.

• Lightweight: Synthetic fibers can be very lightweight​, so many synthetic wigs feel nicely light on the head. In hot weather, a lighter wig can be more comfortable.

• Variety of Colors: You’ll find synthetic wigs in every color imaginable, including ones that would be hard to achieve with human hair. Want ice-blue or pastel pink hair for a change? Synthetic wigs have you covered, no bleaching of your own hair needed.

Cons:

• Limited Styling Flexibility: Most synthetic wigs cannot be heat-styled (no curling irons or straighteners)​and you generally cannot recolor them with dye. What you buy is what you wear. If it’s curly, it will always be curly (unless it gets heat damaged and ruined, which we don’t want!).

• Shorter Lifespan: Synthetic wigs tend to have a shorter usable life. With daily use, expect about 4-6 months of good wear on average​ (sometimes more, sometimes less depending on quality and care). The fibers will gradually frizz, especially at friction points (nape of neck area for longer wigs) and once that happens, it’s hard to restore.

• Slightly Less Natural Look: While many synthetics look amazing, ultra-close inspection might show that telltale “wig shine” or uniformity. Also the hair fiber might not move exactly like human hair in the wind. (Higher quality synthetic wigs mitigate this a lot with special fibers.)

• Can Be Less Breathable: Cheaper “fake hair” wigs might be built on basic caps that don’t let the scalp breathe well. Combined with non-absorbing fibers, you might feel warmer or sweatier in a synthetic wig in hot weather.

• No Custom Coloring: If you want a very specific hair color effect, you can’t just take a synthetic wig to a colorist for highlights or lowlights – the fibers won’t take color like real hair. You’d have to buy one already in the color you desire.

Pros and Cons of Real Human Hair Wigs
Pros:

• Ultimate Natural Look: It’s hard to beat the realism of a well-made human hair wig. The hair has natural variation in color and texture that catches the light like real hair (because it is). Even up close, it can be undetectable as a wig, especially if the wig’s hairline and part are done well.

• Versatile Styling: You can style a human hair wig however you like – curl it for a dinner event, flat iron it for a sleek office look, put it in a ponytail or an updo​. You’re free to use blow dryers, curling irons, hot rollers, etc., just as you would on normal hair (just use good heat protection and moderate heat settings to avoid damage to the wig hair). Also, you can dye or tint the hair. Want highlights? A professional can add them. This flexibility means one good human hair wig can serve many looks and occasions.

• Longer Lifespan: With attentive care, human hair wigs last significantly longer than synthetics​. They don’t have plastic fibers that will suddenly get ratty; as long as you treat the hair gently and nourish it, it can maintain quality for a year or two (daily wear). Over time, you might need to replace or repair the wig, but you’ll generally get more use out of it before it looks worn out.

• Can Be More Comfortable: Many wearers find human hair wigs to feel more comfortable and less itchy than synthetic. The hair itself is not itchy, and high-end human hair wigs often have hand-tied caps that are soft and adapt to your scalp. Also, because you can style them, you can tweak the hair to frame your face or keep it off your neck in hot weather, which can improve comfort.

• Personalized Fit & Look: Typically, when you invest in a human hair wig, you might also get it custom fitted or trimmed by a wig specialist. It becomes “your hair” in a sense, cut and styled to flatter you. Many HairWigsKing clients opt for our 3D Scanned Hair Wigs for a perfect custom fit and natural look – this technology creates a wig cap contoured exactly to your head. A well-fitted human hair wig, especially one made with advanced methods, can boost your confidence immensely.

Cons:

• High Cost: The biggest drawback is cost. Real hair wigs come with a higher price tag than fake hair options​. They are an investment. For example, a synthetic wig that costs RM200 might have a human hair equivalent that costs several times that. That said, remember the longevity; you might replace that RM200 synthetic wig a few times in the span of a single RM800 human hair wig’s life.

• Requires Care & Styling: Owning a human hair wig is like having salon-quality hair every day – which also means you have to style that hair. After washing the wig, it won’t magically style itself. You’ll need to blow dry or air-dry and style it, possibly even take it to a stylist periodically. If you’re not someone who enjoys hairstyling, this could be a chore. Maintenance like gentle washing, conditioning, and safe storage (on a wig stand, etc.) are necessary to keep it looking good.

• Affected by Weather and Habits: As mentioned, these wigs react to rain, humidity, and sweat. You may need to restyle if it gets frizzy from a humid day​ health.clevelandclinic.org or loses volume. Also, using lots of heat or color treatments on the wig will shorten its lifespan (just like over-processing your natural hair would). You have to treat it kindly for it to last.

• Availability and Variety: While there are many styles of human hair wigs, you might not find crazy fantasy colors readily available in human hair (because any vibrant color would mean the hair had to be bleached and dyed, which can reduce quality). Most human hair wigs come in natural shades – browns, blacks, blondes, etc. You can customize color, but that’s an extra step. In contrast, with synthetic you can buy a neon-purple wig easily for a costume or fun look.

• Ethical Sourcing Concerns: This isn’t a “con” of the wig per se, but some people worry about where the hair came from. Reputable brands will use ethically sourced human hair. It’s something to be mindful of – and another reason real hair wigs are costly (ethical hair is expensive). HairWigsKing uses 100% ethically sourced human hair, so our customers have peace of mind on this front.

As we see, fake hair vs real hair wigs each have pros and cons. Neither is “universally better” – it truly depends on your needs and preferences. In fact, the American Cancer Society emphasizes that one type isn’t inherently better than the other; the best wig is one that makes you feel comfortable and confident​. Some savvy wig wearers even keep both types on hand – perhaps a synthetic wig for everyday errands and a human hair wig for special occasions, or vice versa.

Which One Should You Choose: Fake or Real Hair?

The choice between a synthetic fake hair wig and a real human hair wig comes down to a few key considerations. Ask yourself:

• What’s my budget? If you have a tight budget, a synthetic wig might be the best starting point. You can get a beautiful look for much less money upfront. If budget is more flexible and you view your wig as a long-term investment, a human hair wig could offer greater value over time.

• How much styling do I want to do? Are you the wash-and-wear type, or do you enjoy curling irons and playing with hairstyles? For those who want zero fuss and the same look each day, a synthetic wig’s pre-styled nature is appealing. If you love changing your hairstyle or you have a specific look in mind that requires styling, a human hair wig will give you that freedom.

• How will I use the wig? Think about whether the wig is for daily wear (e.g., due to hair loss or convenience) or occasional use (like cosplay, events, or trying out a new look on weekends). Daily wearers might prefer the breathability and realism of human hair, especially if you’ll wear it for many hours a day. Occasional or short-term wearers might lean toward synthetic for the ease or the ability to have multiple fun options.

• Climate and Lifestyle: Living in Malaysia’s warm, humid climate means you should consider how the wig will feel and behave. Synthetic wigs hold style in humidity (no frizz), but can be warmer to wear; human hair wigs might frizz in humidity but you can style them and choose lighter cap constructions for airflow. Also, if you spend a lot of time outdoors or are very active, factor in how the wig will hold up (sweat, washing frequency, etc. – synthetic might require less washing since it doesn’t absorb sweat, whereas human hair might need washing to stay fresh).

• Need for realism: If the wig is meant to replace your hair due to hair loss or you want it to be as natural as possible for personal confidence, a human hair wig is often the top choice. It provides the most realistic look, which can be important especially for someone wearing it at work or around people daily. That said, a high-quality synthetic can also be very natural-looking nowadays. If you go synthetic for this reason, invest in a good one.

• How often can I replace or rotate wigs? Synthetic wigs, as noted, will need replacing more frequently. If you’re okay buying a new wig every 4-6 months (or keeping a couple to rotate), synthetic is fine. If you’d prefer one wig that endures longer, human hair is better suited.

Many people actually choose to own both: perhaps a synthetic wig as a backup or for days when they don’t want to style hair, and a human hair wig for their main look. There’s no rule that you must stick to one type exclusively. It’s all about what works for you!

If you’re unsure, trying on different wig types can help. When you feel a synthetic vs a human hair wig on your head, you’ll notice the difference in texture and weight. This is where a consultation can be invaluable.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of modern technology. At HairWigsKing, we offer an AI Hairstyle Preview tool (on our website) that lets you virtually try different wig styles and colors on your own photo! This is a fun, no-commitment way to see how a synthetic style or a human hair style might look on you before you decide. We also provide in-person consultations where you can touch and feel both synthetic and human hair wigs.

Trusted Sources Supporting the Differences

It's important to know that the differences between fake hair (synthetic wigs) and real human hair wigs are not just opinions, but are supported by trusted experts right here in Malaysia.

Sunway Medical Centre, one of Malaysia’s leading healthcare providers, highlights hair loss as a widespread concern and recommends non-surgical options like high-quality wigs to help individuals restore their appearance and self-esteem.

Meanwhile, Svenson Hair Centres Malaysia, a trusted name in professional hair and scalp care, emphasizes the importance of choosing the right type of hair replacement, noting that real human hair wigs offer greater realism and long-term value compared to synthetic alternatives.
Additionally, Dr. Ko Skin Specialist, a well-known dermatology and aesthetic clinic in Malaysia, recognizes wigs as an important part of holistic hair loss management, especially for clients seeking immediate, non-invasive solutions to regain confidence.

These trusted Malaysian sources confirm that while synthetic wigs offer affordability and convenience, real human hair wigs continue to be the gold standard for those seeking the most natural appearance, flexibility, and lasting satisfaction.

Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Wig at HairWigsKing

By now, you should have a clear understanding of the difference between fake hair and real hair wigs. Each has its place, and the “better” choice depends on you. The great news is that you don’t have to make this decision alone. Our team at HairWigsKing Malaysia is here to help guide you every step of the way. We have both high-quality synthetic hair wigs and premium human hair wigs, so you can explore both options in person.

Still have questions or need personalized advice? Get in touch for a free consultation! We’ll assess your needs, let you try on different wigs, and even use our tech tools (like the 3D Scanned Hair Wigs for perfect fitting and the AI Hairstyle Preview for visualizing styles) to ensure you find a wig you absolutely love.

Call/WhatsApp HairWigsKing today at +60 10-5645627 to book your free wig consultation. You can also visit us in person at our Puchong (Kuala Lumpur) or Johor Bahru outlets – we even offer VIP transport service for appointments. Prefer online? Head to our website (hairwigskingofficial.com) to chat with our wig experts or schedule a virtual consult.

Don’t let confusion about “fake hair” vs real hair stop you from getting the hair of your dreams. Whether you choose a low-maintenance synthetic wig or a luxurious human hair wig, HairWigsKing will make sure it’s the perfect fit for you. Transform your look and boost your confidence with a beautiful wig – we’re here to make it an easy and enjoyable journey!

Ready for a new you? Contact HairWigsKing at +60 10-5645627 or email us at [email protected] to get started. Let’s find your ideal hair solution today!