When you’re looking for wigs, hair pieces, or hair extensions, you’ll see information about ‘hair grade.’ With so many different kinds of wigs, hair loss solutions, and extensions on the market, a hair grading system was put in place so that in theory, you can tell whether the hair is good quality or not.
The hair grading system has made choosing wigs, extensions, and hair pieces simpler, but because the system isn’t regulated, sometimes you just don’t know what you’re getting and this can be frustrating and confusing.
In this blog, I want to tell you all about what hair grades are and what else to look out for before you part with your hard-earned cash.
What are hair grades?
When it comes to hair grades, you can get hair that’s rated 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, or 10A. So what does this mean? Well it tells you the qualities you should be able to expect from each grade of hair.
Grade 3A
This is usually cheap, thin, low-quality hair which sometimes has synthetic hair added to it. It’s chemically processed and you might be able to smell this. This type of hair will usually shed and tangle easily.
Grade 4A and 5A
This hair is also quite thin and easy to tangle if it’s not taken care of. It’s usually low to medium quality, and often used in hairstylist training.
Grade 6A
This is reasonable quality medium thick hair and is suitable for anyone on a budget. It’s usually Remy hair which means the cuticles go in the same direction so it’s less likely to tangle.
Grade 7A
This is high-quality thick Remy hair that won’t shed or tangle as much. It’s still a great budget-friendly option for ladies who want to feel gorgeous again.
Grade 8A and 9A
This is 100% human virgin hair. Virgin hair means that the hair has not been processed in any way. This hair won’t tangle as much as other types and you’ll find it’s easier to maintain. You’ll notice that the higher quality is reflected in a higher price tag.
Grade 10A
This is the best quality hair that you can buy and it’s also the most expensive. It’s 100 thick, strong virgin hair and if it’s looked after properly, it will last you a long time.
What else should I look out for?
When you’re buying a wig, hair extensions, or a hair piece, don’t make decisions based on hair grade alone, as unfortunately, some companies aren’t 100 truthful. It’s a good idea to also look at:
Whether the hair is Remy or Non-Remy
With Remy hair, the cuticles are all intact and facing in the same direction, which results in hair that tangles and sheds a lot less than non-Remy hair. It’s also 100% human hair which has been processed, but will last you a long time if you look after it.
Hair type
100% human hair is likely to be of higher quality but it tends not to last as long as 100% virgin or Remy hair.
If you see any mention of chemical treatment or processing on hair that’s advertised as 100% virgin hair, don’t buy it, because virgin hair is never processed. 100% virgin hair is the best quality hair you can buy, and usually this is reflected in a much higher price.
Synthetic hair is lower quality hair that won’t last for very long.
But beware…
The hair grading system is not formally regulated which means that companies can sell wigs, extensions, and hair pieces and claim that they are higher grade than they actually are. When you buy online this is even more of a problem because you can’t see the hair for yourself before you buy it.
Want to avoid spending your hard-earned cash on poor quality hair?
I can help!
At Salon La Reine, we specialise in hair loss solutions like wigs, toppers, and hair systems, that can help you disguise any hair thinning or loss while your natural hair grows back.
We only source the best quality hair and we also provide custom pieces to make you feel confident and look your best.
Get in touch to book a consultation and let us help you get started on your happy healthy hair journey.