Fake It ‘Til You Make It: How to Use Fake Hair Like a Pro

Fake It 'Til You Make It: How to Use Fake Hair Like a Pro

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Last Updated on December 26, 2023 by Steal the Style

Our hair can’t always do what we ask of it.

Especially if we want it to grow 12 inches or change texture overnight.

Fake It 'Til You Make It: How to Use Fake Hair Like a Pro

Fortunately, fake hair or synthetic hair is a great option for anyone looking to improve their hair quality or even just change up their look.

There are plenty of options when it comes to fake hair that you might not know about. If you’re looking to get started on a fresh ‘do, keep reading for the guide to fake hair for serious looks.

Types of Fake Hair

There are several types of hair options to choose from that vary in price and maintenance depending, on the style. The type of hair you want will make all the difference in getting a result that you want that also fits your budget.

Wigs

Wigs are a great way to get a totally new look when you want to change things up with your hair. Wigs take some effort – lots of treating, blending, and placing to make it look like your true hair – but the results are worth the effort.

Wigs are typically a more expensive hair option, but they will also last a long time with proper care.

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Clip-In Extensions

Clip-in hair extensions are a great way to add length, color, or volume to your hair. They are easier to apply than wigs and take a lot less time.

While clip-ins are available in a variety of shades, lengths, and prices, some people get their extensions customized by a stylist in order to give their hair a natural look.

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Tape-In Extensions

Tape-in extensions have all of the benefits of clip-ins, but they last longer and can be reused.

Tape-ins are sections of synthetic hair with a panel of double-sided adhesive at the top. They are placed on either side of a section of hair to cover up the natural hair.

Of all the hair pieces for women, tape-ins are a relatively quick option – it takes around an hour to style a full head with them.

Tape-ins can be expensive, ranging anywhere from $200 to $800 for installment and removal. But, much like wigs, they can be reused and are worth the splurge.

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Sew-In Weave

Sew-in weave is versatile and requires minimal upkeep once in your hair. The process starts with a stylist making tight braids all over your head with your natural hair left out in the front and on the sides to allow for different styles. The braids are reinforced with thread before the wefts (bundles of hair) are sewn into the braids.

Weave hair can take up to five hours to sew into your hair, but it is cost-efficient and can last up to 12 weeks without much maintenance.

If you have considered weave before and have some wefts in mind, you can view more here to expand your options.

UNice Brown Highlight Body Wave Human Hair Weave 3 Bundles 20 22 24 inch, Brazilian Remy Hair Ombre Blonde Human Hair Wavy Weaves Sew in Piano Color TFB30

How to Wear Fake Hair (the Right Way)

Once you’ve found the perfect hair type for you, you have to incorporate it into your natural hair correctly.

Sure, you could go to a salon, but mastering hair extensions yourself is really useful and saves money.

The top priority is that your hair looks natural. Hair extensions shouldn’t look like a blend of real and fake hair. Here are a few pointers for doing your hair yourself, the right way.

Tease Your Real Hair

When using clip-in extensions, you’ll have to tease your hair in order to ensure your clips will stay put for a long time. Teasing your hair is the process of brushing your natural hair to give it texture.

By using a teasing brush – a brush with many fine bristles held closely together – your clip-ins stand a chance of staying in your hair longer.

Get Your Hair Wet

When curling or changing the texture of your synthetic hair, you need to get it wet. This helps take away the shiny look of the hair and makes it look more realistic.

Dampen the strands of hair the day before you plan to use the hair. If you’re curling your hair, use a curling wand or use large sponge curlers and add them in while the hair is air drying. The curlers should stay in long enough to hold the curl, so letting them sit overnight will do the trick.

Pluck, Pluck, Pluck

If you’re wearing a wig, you’re going to have to make your own hairline. Wigs are often dense with no parts that look natural. Grab some tweezers and create your own part that looks natural for you.

Wear Your Wig Before Cutting the Lace

Lace-front wigs come with a large piece of mesh on the front that is intended to mimic the look of the scalp.

You’ll want to try your wig on and have it sitting securely on your head and in the right position before you cut the lace to fit the frame of your face. This is a really important step when going for a natural look – most people don’t have mesh sticking out from their hairline naturally.

Just like with tweezing out your part, you’ll have to determine what looks right on your face. If you’re not sure about your perfect cut, be conservative at first. You can always cut it shorter until it’s right.

Use Makeup to Blend

For the final touches, use a foundation that matches your skin tone to finish up the real scalp look.

Not only will this keep your lace-front concealed, but it will improve the look especially if you don’t have a strong hairline.

Know Your Personal Placement

No matter what type of hair you decide to use, the way you place it determines how it will look. For wigs, you’ll want a strong adhesive to hold your wig in place for a few hours up to a few days.

If you’re using extensions, the clips or tape should be attached to your natural hair securely. Practice is key for making your hair look and feel natural.

Finding the Right Look for You

Finding your perfect look might take a few tries, especially if you’re doing it yourself. Don’t worry – your perfect fake hair is out there and waiting to make you look your best.

Go find your perfect hair today and make it work for you.

Can’t afford hair extensions? Buy fake hair now, pay later!