Wig Fiber Differences
Human Hair
Hair which has been obtained from actual human beings who contract with our factories to grow hair specifically for use in making wigs. Most of the hair used for making wigs comes from Europe, Asia, Indonesia & India. The hair is grown under very specific conditions in order to make it strong enough to withstand the chemical processes necessary to make it suitable for commercial wig making. In general, American hair is not considered strong enough to withstand these processes, and therefore, is not in demand by wig manufacturers.
Yak Hair
Long, coarse hair which is obtained from a special breed of ox called a Yak. Since white and silver hair is rarely found in its natural color in usable lengths and quantities in human hair, Yak hair is substituted in making wigs and hairpieces in which the customer wishes to have real hair in white or light grey shades. We use this extensively on our best quality Santa Claus Wig & Beard sets.
Kanekalon
A trademark for a Japanese-made synthetic fiber which is used extensively in the manufacture of wigs and hairpieces. It's popularity is due to its ability to retain its shape after washing, and also to the fine texture of the fiber, making it a desirable choice for simulating the texture of human hair. There are different qualities of Kanekalon fiber.
Elura®
A brand of synthetic fiber which generally has a higher heat tolerance than most other synthetics, and is more durable.