When it comes to hair weaves and extensions, there are many options on the market ranging vastly in quality and price. From synthetic to human hair, clip-ins to sew-ins, the possibilities are endless. However, some weave types stand out above the rest in terms of luxury and cost. So what exactly is the most expensive type of weave money can buy?
The most expensive and luxurious type of weave is made from Remy or virgin human hair. This hair is valued for its soft, natural look and feel as well as its durability and longevity. Remy and virgin hair has never been chemically treated or processed, keeping the cuticles intact and allowing the hair to remain strong and healthy through repeated wash, style, and wear. As you might imagine, untouched human hair in pristine condition commands top dollar.
What Makes Remy and Virgin Hair So Costly?
There are a few key factors that make Remy and virgin human hair significantly more expensive than synthetic fibers or lower quality processed human hair typically used for weaves and extensions:
– Source – Remy and virgin hair is collected from single donors who often live in rural communities in countries like India and Brazil. The hair must be healthy, long, and untreated to qualify as Remy or virgin grade. This makes the sources extremely limited.
– Collection Process – The hair is carefully cut, collected in a bundle, and tied together to preserve the direction of the cuticles. This is a manual process requiring time and care.
– Rarity – Only 5% of harvested human hair meets the criteria for Remy or virgin classification, driving up the cost due to low supply and high demand.
– Durability – As the highest quality human hair, Remy and virgin hair lasts longer through repeated styling and maintenance. Consumers are willing to pay more for a product that lasts.
– Appearance – The look, feel, and movement of Remy and virgin hair is soft, natural, and beautiful. It blends seamlessly with the wearer’s real hair.
Types of Remy and Virgin Human Hair
Within the category of Remy and virgin human hair, there are a few specific types that are considered the most luxurious and expensive:
European Hair
Hair sourced from Europe, especially Russia and northern Italy, is exceptionally soft and fine in texture. It is quite rare and commands the highest prices due to its sought-after properties. Nearly unattainable for the average consumer, European virgin hair can cost up to $800 an ounce and $10,000 or more for a full head.
Brazilian Hair
Known for its beautiful natural sheen and variety of colors from dark brown to black, virgin Brazilian hair is also prized for its thickness and volume. Prices typically range from $150-400 an ounce. Full sew-in weaves can cost $2,000 or more.
Malaysian Hair
Malaysian virgin hair is unique for its ability to blend well with relaxed or natural African American hair textures. It is soft, smooth, and luxurious with prices averaging $180-500 an ounce.
Peruvian Hair
In high demand for its versatility to be styled straight, wavy, or curly, Peruvian virgin hair emulates a variety of textures. It is fine and smooth, costing $200-500 an ounce.
Indian Hair
Known for its thickness and strong, durable strands, virgin Indian hair provides fullness and body to styles. It is readily available, making it one of the more affordable Remy hair options at $50-300 an ounce.
What Influences the Cost?
Even within the same country of origin, Remy and virgin hair prices can vary based on:
– Length – The longer the hair, the higher the price with extra long lengths over 30″ commanding the top prices. Shorter hair is more readily available.
– Color – Naturally lighter hair is rarer, driving up prices especially for blonde and platinum shades.
– Texture – Curly textures are less common and higher priced. Straight hair is often more affordable.
– Quality – Higher grades of Remy and virgin hair will cost more based on factors like health, softness, thickness, and shine.
– Brand – Well-known luxury hair brands charge a premium. Lesser known brands may offer similar quality for less.
How Much Does a Full Weave Cost?
The cost of a full head weave not only depends on the type of Remy or virgin hair used, but also on the styling, method of attachment, number of bundles needed based on length and fullness desired, and the expertise of the stylist. Some typical price ranges include:
– Short bob length – $1,000-1,500
– Shoulder length – $1,500-2,500
– Mid to long length – $2,500-5,000
– Extra long lengths 22″+ – $5,000-10,000
– Celeb style 30″+ – Up to $15,000+
Custom or couture weaves with unique colors, textures, or styling can climb even higher in price.
Is the High Price Worth It?
For those seeking super luxurious hair extensions and weaves with unparalleled quality, Remy and virgin human hair is an investment purchase. While the initial cost is exponentially higher than synthetic hair or lower grade human hair, Remy and virgin hair has some compelling benefits that make the decision worthwhile for those who can splurge.
Benefits of Remy and Virgin Hair
| Natural look and feel | Soft and blends seamlessly with natural hair |
| Versatile styling | Can be colored, curled, straightened, and styled repeatedly |
| Durability | Lasts 12 months or longer with proper care |
| High quality | No shedding or tangling like lower quality hair |
For those who can afford Remy or virgin hair, investing in these premium extensions typically outweighs the costs of buying cheaper alternatives that need to be replaced more often. With proper care and maintenance, Remy and virgin hair weaves can be worn for over a year, making the cost per wear quite low. So while the sticker shock may seem outrageous to some, devoted hair extension lovers find the price justifiable and worth every penny.
More Affordable Alternatives
If your budget can’t accommodate the sky-high price tags of Remy and virgin hair weaves, there are some more affordable alternatives that still offer decent quality and style, including:
– Synthetic hair weaves and wigs – $50-300
– Non-Remy human hair – $100-400
– Fusion hair extensions (blends human and synthetic hair) – $150-500
– Clip in hair extensions – $100-300
– Ponytail hair extensions – $100-200
While not as durable or natural looking as Remy and virgin hair, these affordable options allow you to change up your style at a fraction of the cost. With proper styling and care, they can still last several months or more before needing replacement.
The Bottom Line
When only the best will do, Remy and virgin human hair weaves and extensions represent the top tier in terms of luxury quality and natural appearance. But these elite hair enhancements come at an exclusive cost – from several hundred dollars for clip-ins to up to $10,000 or more for a full sew-in weave. For those with thinner wallets, synthetic and non-Remy human hair alternatives offer much lower prices with decent durability and quality for short term wear. So while Remy and virgin hair remains the cream of the crop for hair extensions, more budget friendly options are readily available.
Conclusion
Remy and virgin human hair reign supreme as the most expensive and highest quality type of weave or extensions money can buy. Due to the meticulous collection process and rarity of finding hair that meets the criteria of Remy or virgin classification, these weaves demand top dollar, especially for long lengths, desirable colors, and sought after textures. With proper care and maintenance, Remy and virgin hair can last over a year, justifying the higher prices for some luxury hair lovers. For those on a budget, more affordable synthetic and non-Remy alternatives provide viable options. But for the ultimate lavish locks, Remy and virgin hair remains unmatched in look, feel, and prestige.