Raw vs. Virgin Hair
What is the difference between raw and virgin hair?
Whether you’re an extension newbie, or connoisseur of extensions, don't let these terms intimidate you. Once you have a basic understanding of the two, you should be able to decide which is best for your needs.
Raw:
- Raw hair is exactly as the name applies; Raw, unprocessed, 100% human hair. It’s unprocessed, which means no chemical treatments were involved in making the extensions. Raw extensions are never dyed, permed, treated, or bleached.
- No two bundles are identical when it comes to raw hair as each bundle comes from a single donor. Raw hair manufactures are sourcing the hair directly from donors and then the hair undergoes a rigorous sanitizing process. Most donors are from India, Cambodia, Vietnam and Burma.
- Raw hair is very natural looking, more coarse than virgin and blends very well with your own hair. While raw hair is more expensive, the investment and maintenance is worth it. The bundles are fuller and can last up to 5 years with proper care.
- Virgin hair extensions start out just like raw hair extensions: with 100% real human hair. Also like raw hair, virgin hair extensions are not manipulated or chemically altered. However, it is steam processed. This process does not harm the hair but it does give you more options for texture like deep wave, loose wave, etc. Because of the steaming, virgin hair is silky soft, giving it the ideal look and feel.
- Virgin hair textures and patterns range from Brazilian, Malaysian, Peruvian, Mongolian, etc. and a variety of textures like kinky curly, body wave, deep curly, etc.
- Quality virgin hair can be pricey too, but there are ways to find good bundles. With proper care, they should last you for up to 2 years.