At its most basic level, the term “remy” is used to describe hair that has been selected root end first from one single donor. The cuticles are kept intact and each hair strand is facing one direction. Remy hair is also often referred to as “cuticle hair”. In its simplest form, “virgin” describes hair that has never been processed. It is free from any chemicals such as relaxer, perm, silicones, colors and dyes. Virgin Remy is the purest form available: a combination of unprocessed hair with its cuticles intact.
Let me start by saying that if you are purchasing hair in a beauty supply store, you are NOT purchasing authentic Virgin Remy Hair. Also, if you are purchasing hair with an exact color designation such as #2 or #1B you are NOT buying true Virgin Remy hair. Because Virgin Remy hair has not been chemically treated or colored. It comes in natural black and brown. Color labels are attached to packages of hair because they have been dyed and treated that color.
This brings me to one of the very first ways to tell true virgin remy hair: the color. The color of virgin Indian Remy is that of the natural hair color of the donor. While it is true that this can be a range of natural black and browns, it is often a medium brown that is often lighter than the store bought designation #1B. Also, the color will not be uniform throughout the entire bundle. There will be different natural highlights both lighter and darker than that of the primary color. In addition, there will normally be strands of grey hair throughout the package.
The second way to ensure that you are purchasing true Virgin Indian Remy hair: the hair grade and texture. Virgin Indian Remy hair is not extremely silky or straight. It has a coarser more yaki-like texture that blends and looks more similar to that of women of color. Non virgin hair is often treated with silicones and coated with a chemical straightener. This often gives it an overly silky and straight feeling. When you run your fingers across non virgin hair you can often feel this extra layer of coating.
An important test of the authenticity of hair is how it responds when wet. Non virgin hair often gets heavy when wet. Virgin hair will regain its natural curl or wave pattern when wet. And upon drying it will often be lighter or less weighty than it was when dry. This is often due to the fact that dirt and product buildup was removed when it was wet. It is important to keep in mind that just because hair gets wavy or curly when wet, that does not mean that it is virgin Remy hair. There are a number of lines that offer wet and wavy hair that is neither virgin nor Remy.
In conclusion, Virgin Indian Remy hair can be a great investment. Its natural luster, shine and texture blend perfectly with most natural hair types. They also offer a versatility and quality that is unparalleled in any other form of hair. With maintenance it can last month after month without matting or tangling. However, if you are going to spend your money making this purchase it is important to ensure that you are getting authentic virgin Indian Remy hair
