Raw Indian hair refers to natural, unprocessed hair that is cut directly from the donor and hasn't undergone chemical treatments like perming, dyeing, or relaxing. It's often prized for its durability, natural texture, and versatility. Here's how it compares to chemically processed hair in terms of quality:
- Texture and Appearance:
- Raw Indian Hair: The natural texture of raw Indian hair is often soft, shiny, and naturally wavy or straight. Because it’s unprocessed, the hair retains its natural luster, making it look healthier and more natural when worn.
- Chemically Processed Hair: Chemically processed hair undergoes treatments to achieve specific textures or colors, but the chemicals can weaken the hair's cuticles, making it prone to frizz, dullness, and damage over time.
- Durability:
- Raw Indian Hair: This hair is more durable because the cuticles are intact and aligned. With proper care, raw hair can last up to 4-5 years, sometimes longer. It can also handle heat styling and washing better without losing its integrity.
- Chemically Processed Hair: The processing weakens the hair strands, making it more prone to breakage and damage. Over time, the hair may become brittle, losing its original texture, and it won’t last as long as raw hair.
- Versatility:
- Raw Indian Hair: Raw hair can be dyed, bleached, or styled without significant damage since it hasn’t undergone prior chemical treatments. It responds well to different styling methods.
- Chemically Processed Hair: Processed hair is often pre-colored or pre-styled, limiting the versatility in terms of dyeing and heat styling. Further chemical treatments may severely damage it.
- Maintenance:
- Raw Indian Hair: Requires regular care similar to your natural hair but doesn't need as much specialized attention because of its strength. However, proper moisturizing and conditioning are essential to maintain its natural texture.
- Chemically Processed Hair: Needs more maintenance to prevent further damage. The hair tends to tangle and shed more, requiring special products to keep it manageable.
- Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing:
- Raw Indian Hair: Often sourced from temple donations in India, where women voluntarily cut their hair for religious reasons. It's considered a more ethical option compared to synthetic or heavily processed hair. The hair is typically collected in its natural state, maintaining its integrity.
- Chemically Processed Hair: Can be sourced from different places and undergoes factory processing, often making it less sustainable due to the use of harsh chemicals.
- Price:
- Raw Indian Hair: Generally more expensive because of its quality, durability, and the fact that it’s collected in a natural, untreated state.
- Chemically Processed Hair: Tends to be cheaper upfront but may require more frequent replacements due to its lower durability.
Raw Indian hair stands out for its longevity, natural look, and versatility. Chemically processed hair may be easier to find in specific colors or textures, but it lacks the durability and health of raw hair. If you're looking for an investment piece that can be styled and last longer, raw Indian hair is the superior choice.