In Vietnam, the women rarely process their hair or straighten it. How they take care of their hair has a lot to do with why Vietnamese hair is top, raw hair quality. Many of the women in the country grow their hair incredibly long because of this the hair can be purchased in long lengths from 30 inches and above.
But what exactly is raw Vietnamese hair, and how does it differ from processed hair? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the definitions, characteristics, and differences between raw and processed Vietnamese hair, helping you understand why these distinctions matter whether you’re a buyer, stylist, or business owner.
What is Raw Vietnamese Hair?
Raw Vietnamese hair is human hair sourced directly from donors in Vietnam, left in its natural, unprocessed state. This means it hasn’t been treated with chemicals like dyes, bleaches, or perms, nor has it been mechanically altered to change its texture.
Typically collected from women in rural Vietnamese regions, this hair benefits from a lifestyle that avoids excessive chemical exposure or heat styling, resulting in strands that are strong, shiny, and healthy.
See more: Where can I buy raw hair for bleaching?
Key Characteristics of Raw Vietnamese Hair
- Pure Human Hair: Sourced from a single donor or a small group with similar hair qualities, ensuring consistency and authenticity.
- Natural Color: Usually dark brown to black, reflecting the donor’s natural hue with slight natural variations.
- Intact Cuticles: The hair’s outer layer, or cuticle, remains aligned in one direction, reducing tangling and preserving smoothness.
- Minimal Processing: Only basic steps like cleaning and sorting are applied—no chemical treatments or artificial coatings are used.
- High Versatility: Untouched by processing, it can be dyed, styled, or treated as desired, much like your own hair.
Raw Vietnamese hair is often dubbed the “gold standard” in the hair extension world because of its purity and durability. While it comes with a higher price tag, its ability to endure repeated styling and maintain quality over time makes it a favorite among those seeking premium hair products.
See more: Why Raw Vietnamese Hair Is a Popular Choice for Extensions?
What is Processed Vietnamese Hair?
Processed Vietnamese hair, by contrast, is hair that has been modified through chemical or mechanical means to change its appearance or texture. These alterations are designed to meet specific market demands, such as offering pre-styled or pre-colored options. Common processing methods include:
- Dyeing or Bleaching: Adjusting the hair’s color to lighter shades or trendy tones.
- Perming or Straightening: Changing the natural texture to curly, wavy, or straight.
- Silicone Coating: Adding a temporary shine-enhancing layer, which may fade with washing.
- Acid Washing: Stripping the cuticle to minimize tangling, though this can shorten the hair’s lifespan.
Processed hair dominates the market due to its affordability and variety, catering to consumers who want ready-to-wear styles. However, the trade-off is often a reduction in natural quality and durability compared to raw hair.
See more: Can Vietnamese hair be dyed or colored?
Key Characteristics of Processed Vietnamese Hair
- Modified Appearance: Color, texture, or sheen differs from the hair’s original state.
- Potential Weakness: Chemical treatments can make strands more susceptible to breakage or shedding.
- Restricted Styling: Already altered, it may not handle additional processing well.
- Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper, appealing to a broader audience.
Though processed Vietnamese hair can still be high quality if handled expertly, it doesn’t match the unadulterated excellence of raw hair.
Key Differences Between Raw and Processed Vietnamese Hair
To choose between raw and processed Vietnamese hair, you need to grasp how they differ across multiple dimensions. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Processing Level
- Raw Hair: Limited to cleaning and sorting—no chemicals or structural changes.
- Processed Hair: Involves chemical or mechanical treatments to alter its properties.
2. Natural Qualities
- Raw Hair: Preserves its original color, texture, and cuticle alignment for an authentic look.
- Processed Hair: Features modified traits, with cuticles potentially stripped or coated.
3. Durability and Longevity
- Raw Hair: Lasts 2-3 years with proper care, thanks to its untouched strength.
- Processed Hair: Typically endures 6 months to 1 year, as treatments may weaken it.
4. Styling Versatility
- Raw Hair: Highly adaptable—can be colored or styled repeatedly without quick degradation.
- Processed Hair: Limited by prior treatments; further styling risks damage.
5. Maintenance Needs
- Raw Hair: Requires standard hair care (e.g., conditioning) to maintain its natural state.
- Processed Hair: Often demands extra care, like deep conditioning, to offset processing effects.
6. Price Point
- Raw Hair: Pricier due to its rarity and quality.
- Processed Hair: More budget-friendly, reflecting the broader supply and processing.
7. Ethical Sourcing
- Raw Hair: Frequently traceable to fairly compensated donors.
- Processed Hair: Ethical sourcing varies; processing can obscure origins.
Summary Table: Raw vs. Processed Vietnamese Hair
AspectRaw Vietnamese HairProcessed Vietnamese HairProcessing LevelMinimal (cleaning, sorting)Chemical/mechanical treatmentsNatural QualitiesNatural color, texture, intact cuticlesAltered color/texture, modified cuticlesDurability2-3 years6 months to 1 yearStyling VersatilityHighly flexibleLimited by prior processingMaintenanceStandard careIntensive care neededCostHigherLowerEthical SourcingOften transparentMay be less clearSee more: What is the process for selecting hair donors in Vietnam?
Why Opt for Raw Vietnamese Hair?
Raw Vietnamese hair offers compelling advantages that appeal to those prioritizing quality:
- Natural Look: Blends seamlessly with your own hair for an authentic appearance.
- Long-Term Value: Its longevity justifies the cost, supporting multiple uses.
- Creative Freedom: Untreated, it allows full customization—dye it, curl it, or keep it natural.
- Resilience: Intact cuticles reduce tangling and shedding, ensuring healthier strands.
For professionals or individuals wanting top-tier extensions, raw Vietnamese hair is a worthy investment.
When to Choose Processed Vietnamese Hair?
Processed hair has its own merits, making it a practical choice in certain cases:
- Affordability: Ideal for those on a budget without needing premium longevity.
- Ready Styles: Pre-styled options save time for specific looks.
- Short-Term Needs: Perfect for temporary use, like events or trials.
See more: Which country hair should I buy from?
How to Spot Authentic Raw Vietnamese Hair
With raw hair’s premium status, verifying authenticity is key. Here’s how:
- Source Check: Buy from trusted vendors with clear sourcing details.
- Visual Inspection: Look for natural shine (not artificial gloss), soft texture, and minor variations.
- Documentation: Seek certificates or detailed product info confirming raw status.
- Strand Test: Wash or style a sample—raw hair mimics natural hair behavior.
Raw Vietnamese hair stands as a pinnacle of quality, offering natural beauty, durability, and versatility unmatched by processed hair. Its unprocessed nature ensures longevity and flexibility, making it ideal for those seeking the best. Processed hair, while more affordable and style-specific, sacrifices some purity and lifespan.
Your choice depends on your needs - quality, budget, or convenience. Understanding these differences empowers you to select the perfect Vietnamese hair for personal or professional use.
