When you’re getting braids—whether knotless, box braids, twists, or feed-ins—the type of hair you choose matters. Human hair and synthetic braiding hair both get the job done, but they offer very different benefits. If you’ve ever wondered which one is right for your style, here’s the full breakdown.
✨ What Is Human Braiding Hair?
Human braiding hair is made from real human hair, which means it looks and behaves like natural hair. It can be styled, washed, and even reused depending on quality.
✔ Pros
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Natural look & feel — Soft, lightweight, and blends effortlessly.
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Heat-friendly — You can curl, straighten, and hot water set without melting.
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Long-lasting — Premium human braiding hair can be reused multiple times.
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Less tangling — Smooth from root to tip, making braiding easier.
✘ Cons
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More expensive than synthetic.
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Limited texture options compared to synthetic fibres.
✨ What Is Synthetic Braiding Hair?
Synthetic braiding hair is made from fibres such as Kanekalon, Toyokalon, or premium blend fibres. Today’s higher-quality synthetics can look surprisingly natural.
✔ Pros
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Affordable — Great for protective styles on a budget.
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Variety — Comes in endless colours, lengths, and textures.
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Pre-styled options — Like pre-stretched, pre-feathered, or pre-curled.
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Lightweight options — Especially with modern Kanekalon.
✘ Cons
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Not heat-safe (unless labelled heat-friendly).
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Can tangle or frizz faster.
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Cannot be reused the way human hair can.
✨ Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Human Braiding Hair If You Want:
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A natural, seamless finish
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Styles you can keep in longer
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Hair that can be washed and reused
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Heat styling flexibility
Choose Synthetic Braiding Hair If You Want:
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Bright colours, ombres, and trendy blends
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A more affordable option
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Lightweight, pre-stretched convenience
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Quick or temporary protective styles
✨ Final Thoughts
Both human and synthetic braiding hair can give you gorgeous, long-lasting braids—your choice simply depends on your budget, your style, and how long you want the look to last.
If you love versatility and realism, go human.
If you love bold colours and affordability, synthetic is your best friend.