What does virgin hair mean?

"Virgin hair" is the term used in the hair extension industry for one of the raw materials used in hair products. It belongs to the family of human hair.

For a deeper understanding, we need to know the structure of hair.

human hair is divided into two parts:

• Hair root (roots are underground)- located below the epidermis

• Hair shaft- located above the epidermis

The Hair shaft is used to make the hair extensions, wigs sold in the hair product industry.

Structures of the Hair Shaft

• Hair cuticle- outermost layer of hair; consists of a single, overlapping layer of transparent, scale-like cells; protects inner structure of hair; creates shines and smoothness

• Cortex- middle layer of the hair, 90% of total hair weight comes from the cortex, elasticity and color are the result of protein in the cortex

• Medulla- innermost layer of hair, generally only thick, coarse hair contains a medulla, has no known purpose 

Virgin Hair is the hair cuticle that remains intact and protects the inner core of the hair, making it shinier. It is never dyed, bleached, permed, straightened, or treated with harsh chemicals, leaving hair with its natural color and texture.

Virgin hair is often considered the highest quality human hair available for hair extensions and wigs. It is strong and durable, easy to style and maintain. It can last up to 1 year with care.

Here's an easy-to-understand comparison:

    Think of hair as a strand of yarn:

        Virgin Hair: Like a brand new, naturally colored strand of yarn that has never been dyed or altered.

        Non- Virgin Hair: A strand that has been dyed, bleached or treated (permed, straightened).

    Quality Comparison:

        Virgin Hair is like high quality fabric - strong, holds its shape well, and dyes well.

        Non- Virgin Hair is like used fabric - it's weaker, may not hold its shape well, and may not take dye well.

    Processing Analogy:

        Virgin Hair extensions are like pre-washed clothes - washed and ready to wear, but without any alterations.

        Non- Virgin Hair extensions may be like pre-washed and ironed clothes (additional processing such as steaming the texture).

  Also virgin hair is generally sold in the following ways: hair bundles(Weft or Weave), clip in hair extensions, wigs etc. Things to consider when we choose:

        Cost: Due to its quality and rarity, virgin hair is generally more expensive.

        Maintenance: While easier to care for than some hair extensions, it still requires proper washing and care.

        Ethical Sourcing: Look for brands that prioritize ethical practices when sourcing virgin hair.

I hope this clarifies the concept of virgin hair! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.