Understanding Hair Extensions. What is the difference between Raw Hair and Virgin Human Hair 

April 8, 2022 | Elusive Hair |

Raw hair extensions are not the same type of hair as virgin hair, although there are a lot of virgin hair companies marketing their product as raw hair. This is probably why you’ve been skeptical as to whether there is a difference or not.

Let us break it down for you in this article, and hopefully, by the end, you’ll be much more knowledgeable about the differences so you can make a more informed decision when buying your following bundles.

There are pros and cons to each and in both, but the shortest and simplest way to explain the difference is – Virgin hair has been steam processed to give it texture, i.e., Deep waves, loose waves, etc., which provides you with the trending styles and patterns that most women want. Raw hair has not been steam processed or chemically altered in any way and will behave just like human hair growing out of your hair. Primarily it comes in straight and natural wave textures

  1. Raw hair is the highest quality hair on the market because it has the least manipulation done to it before it reaches you. It comes in its natural state and blends very well with your own hair, and because of this, raw hair requires more love, care, and attention than virgin hair. The bundles are fuller and can last up to 5 years with proper care.
  2. Since raw hair hasn’t been chemically altered or steamed processed, it usually only comes in three textures – straight, natural wave, and curly, which is rare. For more versatile styles such as a deep wave, kinky curly, body wave, afro kinky, loose curl, etc., you would opt for Virgin hair because it has undergone professional steaming manufacturing.
  3. As unusual as it may seem, raw hair needs a lot of moisturizing and conditioning. I highly recommend using quality products only. Of course, you can use Tresemme and Pantene, but I guarantee you that if you use a brand like Paul Mitchell and Nexxus instead, you will notice a big difference. Please note the products used on virgin hair won’t “typically†alter the actual pattern in any way.

Our final comparison for you is, of course, the price and sourcing of the hair. Raw hair can be limited. It’s common for sellers to run out of hair and have to wait a month or so for their next shipment to come in. Raw hair is also the more expensive option, while virgin hair is always in excess and more affordable.

The bottom line is that – Good hair is great hair, whether it’s raw or virgin, as long as it comes from good company! We hope this helps answer any questions about Raw Hair Vs. Virgin Hair, knowing the difference and choosing what’s best for you!