The word ‘remy” means the direction of the hair cuticle and how it is manufactured. Remy hair is human hair and is not synthetic. Although remy hair is human hair, it does not necessarily mean that it is virgin hair, but it is some of the finest quality hair that you can buy. The difference between remy and non-remy hair is the direction that the cuticle of the hair runs. The cuticle of the hair is the outside layer of the hair shaft. It can be anywhere from 5-12 layers deep and it protects the inner layers of hair from damage. Damage can be done be using heat styling tools, chemical services, bleach, and uv exposure. When the cuticle is damaged, hair will be very fragile and look frizzy, dull, and lifeless. This is why buying hair extensions with the cuticle of the hair intact is so important.

A majority of hair extensions that you see on the market are non-remy. They may look shiny and feel smooth to the touch but don’t let this fool you! Most non-remy hair has the roots and the tips shaved off. This helps to hide the fact that the cuticles of the hair run in different directions. Non-remy hair manufacturers also use the trick of coating the hair with a silicone so that you don't notice that the cuticle and strands don't run the same way. Eventually, this silicone coating washes off and wear. This is why some manufacturers will only guarantee the hair until you have washed it.

As mentioned previously, remy is some of the highest quality hair on the market. The cuticle is kept intact and all strands of hair run in the same direction. This gives the hair a very soft, natural look because the cuticle of your natural hair runs in the same direction as well. The extensions also have a much smoother and shinier look to them. Remy hair blends into your natural hair much better than non-remy hair. Because the cuticle of the hair runs in the same direction, there will be minimal shedding, tangling, and matting.

Although remy hair is a bit more expensive, you can consider it to be an investment. The reason it is pricier than non-remy hair is because there is a longer more tedious process to keep the cuticle intact. It will last up to two years or more even with frequent wear, but it must be properly cared for. Remy hair can also be styled and colored just as you would your natural hair.

Non-remy hair will only look nice in the beginning or until the hair is washed and the silicone wears off.

By taking special care of your remy extensions, you will ensure that they last longer and always look their best. Wash them a few times a week and be sure to detangle your extensions with a brush or a wide tooth comb prior to washing them. Always wash them in a downwards motion and do not bunch them up. This causes them to tangle and it will make your job harder when brushing them out. The hair is also extra delicate when it is wet because the cuticle is open. Choose a shampoo that is gentle or one that is made just for hair extensions.

Remy hair is human hair, so you are able to use regular styling products on it. Just be sure to choose hair products that do not contain alcohol. You would actually be surprised how many products do contain it! The reason you want to avoid alcohol is because it can be very drying to the hair. Extensions do not have the oils that we have on our natural hair and scalp to lubricate our stands. Without these oils the extensions can get very dried out, which will cut down on their lifespan. Always remember that you want to treat your extensions just as good as you would you own hair, if not better.

So, if you are looking for the highest quality hair, buying remy hair is your best bet. Just remember that not all hair is remy hair, so make sure to look out for it. In fact, most hair on the market is non-remy hair. Think of remy hair as an investment. It will last you years if properly taken care of, which means you won't have to replace it often like non-remy or synthetic hair. You will have the highest quality hair that can be dyed, bleached and styled just like your natural hair. Remy hair will look natural and it will be hard for others to detect that it is hair extensions. So if you are looking to buy extensions, do yourself a favor, and invest in remy hair. You won’t regret it!

No, virgin hair and remy hair are not the same, but they are often used interchangeably. They are both human hair, but virgin hair is considered the best of the best and is only collected from one person.Virgin hair is also free of any hair coloring or chemical services. Remy hair may be taken from a few donors and is only minimally processed or colored. This makes it the next best thing to virgin hair. Remy hair and virgin hair both have the cuticle intact, with it all going in the same direction. The main thing to remember is that the word “remy” means how the hair is manufactured and not a particular type of hair.