Hair extensions are strands of either synthetic fiber or human hair that are clipped, glued, or sewn into your natural hair to add length, volume, and style versatility. They have become an extremely popular way for people to transform their look and achieve the long, voluminous locks that are popular in current beauty trends. But with so many different types and brands of hair extensions on the market, many people find themselves wondering – what exactly are these extensions made of?
In this comprehensive guide, Yoghair will cover everything you need to know about the different materials used to create hair extensions, including the benefits and drawbacks of each. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the best hair extensions to suit your needs and budget.
Types of Hair Extensions
There are two main categories of hair extensions – those made from human hair and those made from synthetic fibers. Here is an overview of each type:
Human Hair Extensions
- Made from real human hair collected from donors.
- Mimic the look and feel of real hair more closely.
- More expensive than synthetic.
- Can be styled with heat tools.
- Come in remy, virgin, and non-remy varieties.
Remy Hair
- Hair cuticles are kept intact and aligned in one direction.
- More natural look and smoother texture.
- More expensive, but longer lasting.
- Can be reused if cared for properly.
Virgin Hair Extensions
- Hair that is unprocessed in any way.
- The most natural look feels soft and healthy.
- The most expensive type of human hair
- Absorbs dye and treatments better.
Plant-Based Hair Extensions
- Made from synthetic fibers like kanekalon.
- Vegan alternative, not made from human hair.
- Much cheaper than human hair.
- It cannot be styled with heat tools.
- Less natural look and feel.
Materials Used in Hair Extensions
Now that we’ve covered the main types of hair extensions, let’s take a closer look at the specific materials used to create them:
Human Hair
- Remy hair comes from ethical sources like temples and donations.
- Can have straight, wavy, or curly textures.
- Available in different colors and lengths.
- It requires more care than synthetic hair.
Synthetic Fibers
- Kanekalon – the most common fiber, made from modacrylic.
- Toyokalon – a shiny fiber that mimics Asian hair.
- Thermoplastic – Can be heat styled to alter curl patterns.
- Futura/Sensationnel – Premium synthetic with natural feel.
Additional Materials
- Clips, tapes, beads, and keratin bonds are available for application.
- Silicone and latex strips are used to protect natural hair.
- Thread and needles for sew-in wefts
Pros and Cons of Human Hair Extensions
Human hair is considered the gold standard for extensions, but they also come with some drawbacks:
Pros
- Blend seamlessly with natural hair.
- It can be cut, styled, colored, or permed like real hair.
- The soft, smooth texture feels natural.
- Last longer with proper care.
- More reusable than synthetic hair.
Cons
- More expensive upfront cost.
- Require more daily care and styling.
- Natural oils can cause matting over time.
- Shedding and tangling are common problems.
- Can’t stand up to frequent heat styling.
Where can I buy premium hair extensions?
Yoghair, – Top Vietnamese hair factory
- Specialize in high-quality virgin Remy extensions.
- The hair is ethically sourced from Vietnamese donors.
- There is a wide selection of textures, from straight to curly.
- Lengths range from 14 inches to 26 inches.
- 100% virgin hair, cuticle aligned and intact.
- Can be custom ordered in your ideal length and color.
- Competitively priced for the premium quality.
Govihair, – Leading Hair Factory Supplier
- Known for excellent customer service and consistent quality.
- Sourced from women in rural Vietnam willing to sell their hair.
- Specialize in natural black colors but also offer ombre options.
- Lengths range from 16 inches to 28 inches.
- Simple ordering process with fast shipping.
- Wholesale discounts are available for large orders.
- Accept small minimum orders for individuals.
Conclusion
Hair extensions allow you to transform your look instantly by adding length, volume, and style. Now that you know the main types of extensions and the materials they are made from, you can make the best choice for your needs and budget. High-quality Remy human hair offers the most versatile, natural look that can be heat styled and reused over time. However less expensive synthetic fibers may be suitable for temporary styling. Do your research, read reviews, and buy from reputable brands and hair factories to ensure you’re getting the best hair extensions for your money.