When it comes to hair extensions, human hair is generally preferred over synthetic hair due to its natural look and feel. Within the category of human hair, there are different types that are sourced from various parts of the world. Each hair type has distinctive characteristics that make it suitable for certain hair qualities and styles. In this article, we will explore the top 4 hair types commonly used for extensions – Indian hair, Peruvian hair, Malaysian hair, and Brazilian hair.
We will discuss the unique textures, blend-ability, care requirements and versatility of each hair type. Examples will illustrate how different hair types can be styled. Factors like density, luster and curl retention will also be covered. Recommendations will be provided on choosing the right hair based on hair type. Readers will gain an in-depth understanding of virgin hair properties to select what works best. By the end of this guide, you'll be able to make an informed decision for your extensions.
Indian Hair
Indian hair is one of the most widely available and affordable hair types on the market. It comes in a variety of textures ranging from silky straight to loose waves and curls. Indian hair has a fine and lightweight density that allows for easy styling. Due to its versatility and ability to blend with different ethnicities, it is suitable for most hair types.
Indian hair retains styles very well and holds curls beautifully when properly cared for. Its texture is flexible enough to be straightened without damage. As it comes in an array of shades, finding the right color match is convenient. When cared with moisture-rich products to prevent dryness, Indian hair can last for several months with regular wear. It is a popular choice for everyday use due to affordability and seamless blending.
Peruvian Hair
Peruvian hair is characterized by an exceptionally thick and full texture with a soft, silky feel. It requires fewer bundles than other hair types to achieve the same volume, making it very cost-effective. Despite its coarseness compared to hair types like Malaysian or Brazilian, Peruvian hair blends well with most natural textures after proper processing and installation.
This hair type holds curl patterns extremely well without dropping. Curls stay defined all day long without re-setting. Peruvian hair is also very long-lasting as its coarseness makes it resistant to damage from heat styling and mechanical manipulation. It still maintains luster and bounce after several washes. Overall, Peruvian hair is ideal for those seeking premium quality hair at mid-range pricing with powerful volume and curl-retention.
Malaysian Hair
Known for its luxurious feel and shine, Malaysian hair has a medium texture – heavier and thicker than Indian but softer than Peruvian. It comes mainly in straight and wavy textures and requires little styling products or heat tools to look natural. Malaysian hair blends smoothly into most hair types, especially tightly coiled or curly textures common in Black women's hair.
This hair type retains curls beautifully without any loose strands throughout the day. It withstands weather changes well for versatile styles. Moisturizing and protective routines preserve Malaysian hair's bounce and radiance for many months of frequent use. While pricier than Indian, its longevity, versatility and low-maintenance properties make it worth the cost. Malaysian hair is a top premium choice suitable for all lifestyles.
Brazilian Hair
Sought after globally for its softness, luster and density, Brazilian hair is one of the most beloved extensions. It has a subtle wave pattern and medium-coarse texture that allows for low-heat styling into various looks. Brazilian hair can be lightly flat ironed or air dried wavy without damage.
This hair type retains moisture well with proper conditioning. It maintains curl or wave patterns strongly all day with minimal product usage. Colors range from rich black to caramel blonde. Brazilian hair blends seamlessly into straightened African American and Caucasian textures after processing. Its ability to style into any look paired with resilience to heat tools make it suitable for frequent styling over many wears. While on the pricier side, Brazilian hair is considered a top luxury choice overall.
Choosing Your Hair Type
When selecting your hair extensions, it is important to consider your hair type, style preferences and budget. For example, fine or wavy textures may prefer lighter Indian or Malaysian hair while tightly coiled locks favor dense Peruvian. Straight styles suit silky Brazilian whereas curls match coarse Peruvian best. Day-to-day wear dictates low-maintenance Malaysian; frequent styling favors resilient Brazilian.
Evaluating bundle cost against expected wear time also impacts choice. Per bundle, Indian and Malaysian are most affordable while Peruvian and Brazilian cost more, but may outlast several other hair types. Potential color-matching influences selection as well. Overall, understanding your hair goals alongside hair type attributes helps narrow the choice for a seamless, natural look. With proper care, any of these four human hair types can enhance your beauty perfectly.
Caring for Your Hair Extensions
Proper care sustains extensions' quality long-term. Here are some general care best practices applicable across all four hair types:
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Shampoo weekly with a moisturizing, sulfate-free cleanser formulated for hair extensions.
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Deep condition mid-lengths to ends with a rich, protein-free masque 2-3 times weekly.
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Rinse with cool water to seal cuticles and lock in hydration.
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Detangle with a wide-toothed comb or brush in the shower with conditioner in.
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Avoid blow drying with direct heat. Use low temperature and diffuser attachment.
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Apply a heat protectant serum before flat ironing or curling. Limit direct heat styling.
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Braid or twist hair at night to preserve curls and avoid tangles while sleeping.
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Dust ends with a soft-bristled brush and cut splits regularly to retain hair's health.
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Protect hair from sun damage with a sheer oil, leave-in or scarf.
Following a consistent regimen maintains hair's softness, shine and style retention through many wears and washes between installations.
Styling Techniques
Different textures require varied styling approaches. Here are some techniques to achieve popular looks:
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Straight styles suit silky textures like Indian and Brazilian hair. Flat iron sections in small batches with a heat protectant for smooth, frizz-free results.
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For spiraled curls, use medium-barrel curling irons on longer Peruvian or Malaysian hair, focusing on ends. Scrunch with mousse or cream.
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Loosen tight curls by finger coiling larger sections of Peruvian hair around a wide-tooth comb or brush before setting.
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For beach waves, braid damp hair overnight then brush out the loose curls in the morning. Works well for all hair types.
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Pull back shorter sections of denser hair types like Peruvian into a top knot or low bun for natural volume.
With consistent practice and customizing routines based on your natural hair's needs, you can realize a variety of wonderful styles using any of the four top virgin hair textures. Regular protective care then maintains their beauty through many wears.
In conclusion, Indian hair, Peruvian hair, Malaysian hair and Brazilian hair are beloved for extensions due to their natural quality, versatility and ability to blend seamlessly into most hair textures after processing. Understanding attributes like texture, shine, luster, curl retention and blend-ability across each type aids selection based on hair goals and lifestyle needs.
Pairing moisture-rich cleansing routines with heat protection and low-manipulation styling extends hair's longevity through multiple wears and washes between salon visits. Selecting the suitable hair type then tailoring its care and styles suiting your hair type and fashion preferences nourishes your tresses for many months of enhanced beauty through extensions.