Reporter Park’s Hair Trivia 101

Synthetic Fiber Types and How to Care for Them

The hair product material we commonly refer to as synthetic hair is made of synthetic fiber, meaning it is an imitation hair. Synthetic hair is typically made from artificial fibers including acrylic yarns and nylon thread, and these fibers are chemically synthesized and go through various chemical processes to give them the shape, texture, color, and styling properties that most closely resemble human hair. In this issue, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of synthetic hair.

Synthetic hair, what are the different types?

1. Toyokalon: often used in wigs and hairpieces, Toyokalon is said to be the most similar to human hair because it is soft, lightweight, and has a natural shine. While it has some heat resistance, it’s not as strong as other yarns, and the fiber itself is lightweight, which is why it’s often used in wigs and braids and is easier on the scalp. Compared to other synthetic fibers, it is more durable and can last for a long time if properly cared for.
2. Kanekalon: Kanekalon® is a registered trademark of the manufacturer Kaneka Corp and comes to the hair product factory unprocessed, where it is cut, textured, and dyed. It has low heat resistance around 80℃ and shrinks when heated. In particular, Kanekalon is commonly used in braiding products because it is known for maintaining its shape and style over time and favored for its ability to resist tangling and fading. Like Toyokalon, it provides a natural shine that resembles human hair.

3. 3. Kanekalon® high heat fiber: Kanekalon® high heat fibers are the brand’s heat resistant synthetic fibers. This means that some of the fibers that bear the Kanekalon brand can withstand heat, which is why it is widely used in a variety of beauty and hair products suitable for thermal hair styling. It is a high-quality synthetic fiber that is durable, natural-looking, and offers a wide range of color options, making it a popular choice for hair extensions and wigs.
   4. Kanekalon® FUTURA®: FUTURA® is a registered trademark of Kaneka Corp. and refers to advanced synthetic fibers made with its patented technology. It’s a fiber designed to most closely resemble human hair in terms of texture and heat resistance and is known for its ability to withstand high temperature, which is a huge advantage because it allows for a wide variety of beauty and hair styling with thermal styling tools such as flat irons and curling irons. Because of the fiber’s versatility and durability, it is often used in high-end synthetic wigs, hairpieces, and hair extensions.
   5. Blended hair: Some synthetic hair products are made from blends of different types of yarns, such as blending Kanekalon with human hair or blending high heat fibers with non-high-heat synthetic fibers. Human hair blends can combine the durability of synthetic fibers with the natural texture of human hair, and it is much more affordable than 100% human hair products, making it more appealing to consumers. In particular, blending human hair with heat friendly materials allows for heat styling while providing a natural look.

Toyokalon vs. Kanekalon, which is better?

As mentioned above, Toyokalon is characterized by a very soft and natural feel, which makes it comfortable to wear and gives it a vibrant appearance with a natural shine. Kanekalon, on the other hand, has a matte texture that more closely resembles human hair, but tends to be slightly less soft than Toyokalon. While Toyokalon is moderately heat resistant, Kanekalon’s high heat fibers can withstand high temperatures, which is a huge advantage for heat styling. Kanekalon is slightly more expensive in terms of cost. Choosing between the two options will depend on your personal needs and preferences, but if you’re looking for a soft texture and natural look, Toyokalon is a good choice. If you’re looking for high durability and a variety of heat styling options, Kanekalon is a better fit.

How to Care for Synthetic Hair

Unlike human hair, synthetic hair does not breathe well, which can lead to bacterial and fungal growth on the scalp, which can cause itching and inflammation. Therefore, it’s important to keep synthetic hair clean and free of chemical buildup to reduce the risk of damaging your natural hair.

◦ Hot tools are an absolute NO!: Using hot tools on synthetic hair can damage the synthetic fibers. Even the most heat-resistant yarns can be damaged by prolonged exposure to high heat, so take extreme caution.

◦ Use a special brush for synthetic hair: A special brush for synthetic hair should be used to prevent fibers from being pulled and stretched as well as to reduce tangles. You should never brush your synthetic hair when it’s wet.  It is also recommended to air dry your synthetic hair to increase its longevity.

◦ Avoid using natural hair products: it’s best to avoid using hair products on synthetic hair whenever possible. If you can’t avoid it, use products that are friendly to synthetic hair, as natural products that are good for human hair can rather harm synthetic hair.

◦ How to shampoo: Synthetic hair should be washed after 10-15 wears, using a mild, sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for synthetic fibers. It is recommended to use lukewarm water, as hot water can damage the fibers. When shampooing, mix a small amount of shampoo in a bucket of water, submerge the synthetic hair product and shake gently. Try not to rub or twist it. Rinse slowly under cold water.