What Is Remy Hair? Key Differences You Should Know

Virgin Hair Extensions is a term often used when purchasing hair extensions, and most of our customers have no idea what Virgin hair is. Most assume Virgin hair has never been processed, but this is not the case. Although the processing of this hair is minimal, there is processing involved to create perfect color consistency from dye lot to dye lot. But the main difference is the hair is carefully collected from a single donor, ensuring the highest quality and consistency. This means that the hair has not been processed or altered in any way, making it the most natural and pure form of human hair. Our Veila Hair Extensions are made of Virgin hair from a single donor and will give you the most natural human hair extensions with the best color match.

Below is the same color, the lightest blonde, the left (virgin hair) is true to the shade without hues of gold. The color and density are consistent from roots to ends.

What is One Donor Virgin Hair?

Collecting hair from one person (donor) is not a simple task in an industry where kilos of hair are shipped from all over the world. The hair is collected from the donor in the exact direction as it grows and then carefully shipped to factories for processing. Virgin European hair, sourced primarily from countries like China, India, Vietnam, and Russia, is particularly important for creating numerous amount of blonde tones. Multiple donor hair can not create this consistency since it is collected from people with different pigments in their hair, often from combs, shower drains, and barbershop floors. Virgin hair is impervious to matting and tangling unlike hair extensions purchased from online vendors coated with silicone. Once the silicone washes out while wearing then the matting begins.

How Are Virgin Hair Extensions Colored?

Decolorizing virgin hair is a slow process, no acid baths! An acid bath is just like it sounds hair is placed in a vat full of acid which quickly strips the color and the cuticle from the hair and then hair color is added along with so much silicone that makes the hair smell like Barbie doll hair! Virgin Hair Decolorization takes approximately 2 weeks to 1 month, ensuring up to 12 months of tangle free hair; hair is placed in a solution similar to Coke a cola (even less caustic), and once the color is removed the gentle processing and colorization process is ready to begin. This ensures the cuticle of the hair is intact and ready for an amazing customer experience.

Should You Color Virgin Hair Extensions?

The short answer is "no," because many confuse coloring hair with bleaching (stripping) hair. Stripping hair with bleach will destroy most hair extensions.

It is best to match your hair with hair extensions, since there is so much variety of color and color transitions, matching should be easy. In some cases, using a semi-permanent hair dye is okay to tone blonde extensions or slightly darken lighter (not blonde) hair extensions to a deeper shade

What Are Remy Hair Extensions?

Remy hair means the cuticles of the hair are aligned in the same direction but can be taken from multiple donors. High quality Remy hair extensions are of higher quality, specifically the highest quality of unprocessed real human hair, as it is the most natural-looking and the most durable. However, it may not have consistent color and may not last as long as Virgin hair in terms of hair quality. When purchasing Virgin hair, you will feel its soft and supple quality, which may not be as noticeable in fine quality Remy hair extensions. If you compare the two in person, you will see the difference, and the experience for your customer will be one of delight. Virgin hair feels healthy and resilient, making it a superior type of human hair for hair extensions. Virgin hair is cut from a single donor, ensuring that the cuticles remain intact and aligned in the same direction from root to tip. This results in a more natural and long-lasting extension. Since many methods of hair extensions are reusable, investing in high quality Remy hair extensions at an affordable price is well worth it.

What is the Price Difference between Remy and Virgin Hair?

There is a price difference between Remy and Virgin hair which may vary from salon to salon. You should expect to pay between 10 to 20 percent more for Virgin hair. In my opinion, this is a small price to pay for the benefit you receive when purchasing Virgin hair, mainly because it looks nicer, the color is consistent and it lasts longer.

What Is Most Important When Selecting Virgin Hair?

Over my 25-year tenure, the most important reason to select Virgin hair is when your hair is light; between dark blonde to lightest blonde. Many darker colors certainly look better in virgin hair (color & quality), but Remy hair can work well with darker colors from black to medium brown. Every strand of Remy hair is a bit thicker than Virgin hair and may match well with darker hair which may also be naturally thick. However, when it comes to overall quality and longevity, virgin hair is often considered the best option for its natural, unprocessed state.

Russian Slavic Hair

Russian hair extensions are known as the gold standard in hair extensions. Our ethically sourced Slavic hair is supple, long-lasting, and durable. The hair undergoes gentle chemical processing to achieve an array of hair colors, and textures. Veila Hair takes pride in stocking reusable hair extensions that will last over one year with proper care. The hair industry has many inferior hair quality options, with the cuticles arranged in different directions. Albeit, this is real hair, it is not a great option since this hair type will matte quickly and be impossible to brush. Don't be surprised if you find that synthetic hair is mixed into the hair extensions from the hair factory to cut back on hair costs.

Hair Extensions remy vs. virgin hair

The method of applying hair extensions counts. Sourcing hair extensions from the likes of Bellami hair with tape-in extensions might get you close to the natural look you are after. Tape-in hair extensions or clip-in hair extensions can leave you with tension on the scalp, and when dealing with rapid hair growth the maintenance required can take longer and can damage your natural hair. At Noelle Salon, we work with your natural hair journey, look at the maintenance and the styling you are looking for with either 100% Remy human hair or Virgin human hair. If you are looking for full head coverage and over 24 inches of hair extensions, both types of hair extensions will work, but for comfort and ease of maintenance, the pull-thru method with silicon-covered microbeads are what Veila Hair Extensions will deliver amazing results in a variety of styles you are looking for.

What is the difference between Remy and Non-Remy Hair?

Remy hair and non-Remy hair cut top are two distinct categories within the realm of human hair extensions. Remy hair, often considered the gold standard, is collected from a single donor, ensuring that the hair cuticle, the resistant layer of the hair, remains intact and aligned in the same direction. This new trick of remy hair alignment helps to minimize tangling and extends the lifespan of the hair while reducing the possibility of friction between hair strands, making it appear more natural and promoting healthy hair, and it is a kind of hair that provides a high-quality look. In contrast, non-Remy hair is sourced from multiple donors, resulting in mixed cuticle directions that can lead to tangling and a less natural appearance. The collection method is a determining factor for non-Remy hair, which is usually treated with silicone to enhance its shine, but this coating can wear off over time, revealing a less desirable texture, particularly at the ends of the hair, especially when you consider the need to end remove hair follicle.

Feature

Remy Hair

Non-Remy Hair

Sourcing

Collected from one donor

Collected from multiple donors

Cuticle Direction

Aligned and intact

Mixed directions

Lifespan

Longer, typically lasting 12-24 months

Shorter, usually lasting 1-3 months

Natural Appearance

Very natural and healthy-looking

Less natural, can appear frizzy

When it comes to hair quality, Remy hair is undoubtedly preferred by consumers seeking long-lasting and beautiful extensions. Investing in Remy hair means choosing the best product that not only looks great but also stands the test of time, providing versatility and ease of maintenance.

Is Remy Hair Ethically Sourced?

The ethical sourcing of Remy hair is an important consideration for many consumers. While the term "Remy" refers primarily to the quality and integrity of the hair, it does not automatically imply ethical practices. However, reputable brands like Indique ensure that their Remy hair is sourced from individuals who willingly donate their hair, often from temples or salons. This process is designed to respect the donors and their cultural practices, promoting transparency and fairness in the hair extension industry.

Ethical sourcing not only enhances the quality of the hair but also contributes to a positive story behind the product. Consumers are increasingly looking for hair that not only meets their aesthetic needs but also aligns with their values regarding sustainability and ethical production. Thus, when choosing Remy hair extensions, it's crucial to research the brand's sourcing practices to ensure they uphold ethical standards, providing you with high-quality hair that also supports responsible practices.

What is the Best Hair for Wigs?

When it comes to selecting the best hair for wigs, human hair reigns supreme, particularly 100% Remy hair. This type of hair is prized for its natural look and feel, allowing for versatile styling options such as dyeing, curling, or straightening without compromising its quality. Remy hair wigs are not only durable but also maintain their softness and shine, making them a favorite among those seeking a realistic appearance.

In addition to the term Remy hair, the quality of the hair extensions used in wigs is paramount for achieving your dream hair. High-quality human hair wigs will have intact cuticles that are aligned, preventing tangling and ensuring longevity. Investing in quality hair, such as that from reputable brands known for their ethical sourcing and processing practices, will provide you with the best quality wigs that look natural and last longer for a long time, especially if you do it right the first time. Whether for daily wear or special occasions, choosing the right type of hair will significantly enhance your overall experience with wigs.