A Cheat Sheet on Choosing between Raw and Virgin Hair

When it comes to the hair industry, it seems like there is always something new popping up. The latest trend has been raw hair. Raw hair is different from virgin hair. A few things to consider before buying raw hair.

1. Raw hair is significantly different from virgin hair. Both are human hair extensions; however, raw hair is unaltered. Virgin hair has been steamed processed to give it texture. Raw hair has not been steamed processed or chemically altered in any way. Essentially, they get the hair from the donor and then clean it and attach the wefts and send it to you. The way you get the hair is  the same way the person had it on their head.

2. Since raw hair hasn’t been chemically altered or steamed processed, it only comes in three textures. Raw hair primarily comes in straight, natural wave and in curly, which is rare. There is no such thing as a deep wave, kinky curly, body wave, etc. when dealing with raw hair.

3. Raw hair does require different maintenance from virgin hair. As weird as it seems, raw hair needs a lot of moisturizing and conditioning. I highly recommend using quality products ,only. Yes, you can use Pantene, but I guarantee you, that if you use Nexxus instead, you will notice a big difference. There are specific products you should and should not use on raw hair. However, the products used on virgin hair won't alter the pattern in any way.

4. While raw hair is better quality, keep in mind it will be more expensive. Unlike virgin hair, raw hair can last up to 4 years or more. Prices can start at $200 for one bundle in a shorter length and will continue to rise, depending on the vendor. Quality virgin hair can be pricey too, but there are ways to find good bundles for cheaper. With raw hair, you will always pay more.

5. Raw hair can be limited, while virgin hair is always in excess. Many sellers will run out of the hair and will have to wait a month or so for their next shipment to come in. So, keep that in mind when you’re planning your hairstyle. Prior to COVID-19, virgin hair would come in three business days. Expect delays of two weeks or more.

6. Virgin hair comes in a variety of origins and textures. Unlike raw hair, which only comes in three textures and usually one to three origins, like Cambodian, Indian, and Vietnamese and straight, natural wave, and curly. You have more of a variety with virgin. 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. 

While raw hair is more expensive, the investment  and maintenance is worth it. It can last up to four years and you can always make a wig or clip-ins out of it.  But, if you are looking for more textures like kinky curly or even a deep wave, virgin hair is for you. 

~Kesini