Are Synthetic Wigs Heat Resistant? How Much Heat Can They Handle?

Synthetic wigs have been with us for a long time, and they have become even more diverse in recent times because you now find versions of synthetic wigs that look and feel like human hair.

One drawback synthetic wigs have had for the longest time is that heat styling has been a challenge. Exposing synthetic hair to heat has been known to make the wig kink, frizz, kink, or melt.

However, thanks to new wig technology, there are now so many wigs that can withstand heat, at least to a certain degree; they are called heat-friendly or heat resistant wigs. 

But are all synthetic wigs heat resistant? Can you say that synthetic wig fibers won’t melt or catch fire near heat? What should you know about synthetic wigs and heat resistance? Let’s find out.

Are Synthetic Wigs Heat Resistant?

Not all synthetic wigs are heat resistant because all synthetic fibers cannot handle the heat. However, there some synthetic wigs are produced using heat-friendly or resistant fiber.

These synthetic wigs can go through heat styling such as curling, stretching, flat ironing, and even blow drying under low or medium heat. 

It is important to check the wig description before buying it to ensure that you are indeed getting a heat-resistant synthetic wig. Some wigs are heat resistant, and some are not, so careful identification will help you determine a heat resistant wig.

How Much Heat Can a Synthetic Wig Handle?

When we say a synthetic wig is heat resistant, we don’t mean that it can resist any heat level or condition. If someone tells you that a heat-resistant synthetic wig can be exposed to any level of heat, they would be lying to you.

Heat-resistant synthetic fiber can handle as much heat as 350°F/180°C, but not any more than that. In fact, some stylists recommend keeping it between 270 and 280 just to be safe.

To ensure that you don’t expose your wig to higher temperatures than 350 degrees Fahrenheit, always use a heating tool that has a temperature gauge and ensure that you keep it within the given limit. 

What Happens When a Synthetic Wig Is Exposed to High Heat?

Here’s a warning you must heed: ‘Avoid turning up the heat on any tool you use beyond 350°F.

But why, you might ask.

Simply because you could burn your wig or melt it.

When you expose synthetic wigs to intense heat, there is a high possibility that they will frizz, kink, or even melt.

Hence, it is important to always confirm the highest temperature of each setting on your tool. If you cannot confirm the maximum temperature of each setting, then it is best to always use the lowest or medium setting.

How Do I Know If My Synthetic Wig Is Heat-Friendly?

One challenge many ladies have is identifying a heat-friendly synthetic wig from the regular wigs. If you were to enter a wig shop? Would you be able to pick a heat-friendly wig without help? After all, heat-friendly wigs often look identical to non-heat-friendly wigs.

So, is there really any way to tell them apart? Or do you have to believe what the seller or manufacturer says?

The first obvious sign of a heat-friendly synthetic wig is that it looks more realistic than the regular synthetic wig. It is also less shiny than other wigs.

So, the major distinguishing factor between the heat-friendly and non-heat-friendly wig is the presence or absence of sparkle in the hair fiber and strands.

Also, the surface of heat-resistant wigs is often smoother and more delicate than the surface of non-heat-friendly wigs. So, if you touch the wig and its filaments feel rough and hard, then chances are that it isn’t heat-friendly. 

Beyond physical identification, the surest way to confirm that a wig is heat friendly is to test the wig with a heat styling tool. You can do this in an area that isn’t conspicuous. 

Of course, you should confirm from the company or manufacturer before doing this. If they guarantee that it is heat resistant, then ask them to test it before you, or test it in their presence just to be sure. 

That’s why it might be risky to buy the wig online because returning it might be impossible if you attempt to heat style it and it gets burnt. 

Regardless, if you have to test the wig with a heat tool, always start on the lowest heat that barely seems like it is on. Then, you can observe the wig closely as you increase the heat on the tool. 

Top 3 Heat Friendly Synthetic Wigs

Beyond all doubts, choosing a heat-friendly synthetic wig affords you the flexibility to switch up your style often and again using heat tools like flat irons, curlers, and curling irons.

1. Missyvan Glueless Heat Resistant Lace Front Wig Straight Hair 

This beautiful brown T-lace front synthetic wig with blonde highlights has a length of between 22 and 24 inches. Its lace comes in medium/light brown and transparent colors. 

The manufacturers of this Missyvan wig describe it as 90% heat resistant and 10% human hair. 

The smooth 180% Density wig fiber can handle heat levels of up to 320 ℉ without burning or melting.

The manufacturer advises against using hot curlers at the regular heat setting to avoid damaging the synthetic wig fiber.

2. GIANNAY Curly Lace Front Wigs with 180% density Synthetic Heat Resistant Fiber 

This Giannay wig is a 180% Density free part lace front wig with baby hair and a natural hairline.

Its heat-resistant fiber can withstand 320F heat levels.

The manufacturers of this wig advise that you run the heating device through the hair in quick motions without leaving it on a single part for long after the device might have reached 320F.

When heat styling this wig, you’re advised to spray water mist on the hair before exposing it to heat.

It is also advised that you avoid using a hot curler in its regular setting because it would damage the wig.

3. HUA MIAN LI Long Wavy Full Heat Resistant Synthetic Grey Pink Wig

This Grey pink-colored 26-inch wig is described as having a 100% Soft Heat Resistant Fiber Length.

It has an adjustable net cap with 100% breathable rose in its network for improved comfort.

The producers of the wig describe it as one of superior quality that allows you to easily style your hair and experiment with different creative looks and hairstyles without bothering about damage.

The manufacturers also advise against blow-drying the wig with high settings because it could damage the wig knots or cause them to split. It is best to air-dry this wig or use a blow dryer at low temperatures.

According to its description, this wig can withstand up to 356F/280C heat exposure without experiencing any form of damage.

Final Words

Now that you have all the details you need to know about synthetic wigs and heat resistance, you’re in a good position to make the best choices when it comes to synthetic. 

Thanks to the heat-resistant synthetic wig technology, you can now enjoy the benefits of synthetic hair alongside diverse styling options similar to human hair. Still, you don’t have to break the bank due to expensive costs. 

Don’t forget that a heat resistant synthetic is not 100% heatproof, so always abide by the general temperature specification of no higher than 350 degrees, or the specific temperature guideline for your wig.