We are dedicated to exploring and sharing with you the fascinating nature of the anatomy of hair and its distinct composition, which varies from person to person. Our deep understanding of the remarkable characteristics of human hair allows us to create and match HAYR products that truly reflect your individuality. Our goal is to provide a seamless, undetectable blend that ensures maximum comfort and confidence.
HAIR SCALP
The human scalp is adorned with approximately 120,000 strands of hair, averaging between 250 to 300 hairs per square centimeter. Each individual hair enjoys a lifespan of roughly four years before it gracefully sheds, making way for a new growth. It is entirely natural to lose between 50 to 100 hairs daily.
HAIR ROOT
Hair, a symbol of elegance and vitality, consists of two essential components: the root and the hair shaft. While we often regard hair as a living entity, it is important to note that the visible hair shaft is, in fact, biologically dead. The true essence of hair lies within the root, an unseen marvel nestled within the epidermis of the scalp, extending into the dermis. Here, it draws upon a rich supply of nutrients delivered through a network of blood vessels, nurturing its growth. It is within this hidden sanctuary that keratinocytes flourish, multiplying and infusing themselves with keratin and melanin, ultimately giving rise to the luxurious strands we cherish.
HAIR SHAFT
The visible and free portion of hair, known as the hair shaft, is elegantly structured into three distinct layers: the medulla, the cortex, and the cuticle.
MEDULLA
The medulla, the innermost layer, comprises circular cells that may be either unpigmented or lightly pigmented, interspersed with air. In certain fine and blonde hairs, this layer may be absent, yet its primary function remains to safeguard the integrity of the hair.
CORTEX
Dominating the hair shaft is the cortex, which constitutes approximately 90% of its weight. This vital layer imparts strength and resilience to the hair, composed of elongated keratinocytes bound together by intercellular cement. Within the cortex lies melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, resulting from a harmonious blend of two types of melanin: eumelanin, which presents in shades of brown, and pheomelanin, which ranges from yellow to red. Additionally, the cortex is enriched with keratin filaments, further enhancing the hair's structure.
CUTICLE
The outermost layer, the cuticle, serves as a protective barrier, shielding the hair from external aggressors. It is formed of translucent, overlapping cells devoid of nuclei, known as "scales," which are arranged akin to the tiles of a roof and secured by intercellular cement. A lipid layer envelopes these scales, bestowing shine and smoothness upon the hair shaft. This intercellular cement is rich in lipids, comprising 40% ceramides, 35% cholesterol, and 25% fatty acids, ensuring the hair's impermeability and protection.
HAIR TYPE
While each individual’s hair is unique, it can be categorized into three primary classifications: Caucasian (often referred to as European), Asian, and African hair. Caucasian hair typically exhibits an oval shape, with an average diameter of 0.07 mm. In contrast, Asian hair is characterized by a round shape, ranging in color from dark brown to black, and is predominantly straight or gently wavy, with an average diameter of 0.09 mm. African hair, on the other hand, takes on a band-like shape with a diameter of 0.06 mm.
The characteristics of hair—whether straight, wavy, or frizzy—are fundamentally composed of the same elements. Each strand consists of three layers: the cuticle, cortex, and medulla, with keratin serving as the primary protein component. The shape of the hair follicle is the determining factor for the hair's overall shape; Asian hair emerges from a round follicle, African hair from an oval one, while Caucasian (European) hair follicles exhibit a variety of shapes. As hair is a non-living material, it retains this original form: Asian hair is typically straight, Afro hair grows in a spiral pattern, and Caucasian hair can present a spectrum of textures in between.
HAIR GROWTH
Hair growth rates also differ among these classifications. Caucasian hair grows at an average rate of approximately 1.2 cm per month and boasts the highest density among the three types. Blondes typically have around 146,000 strands, black-haired individuals possess about 110,000, brunettes have approximately 100,000, and redheads average around 86,000 strands. Afro hair, predominantly black, contains between 50,000 to 100,000 strands and has the slowest growth rate at about 0.9 cm per month. In contrast, Asian hair, the most prevalent type globally, grows at a rate of 1.3 cm per month and, despite an estimated 80,000 to 140,000 strands, generally has the least density.
HAIR STRENGTH
Asian and Caucasian hair are known for their ability to handle stress and fatigue effectively. Asian hair boasts the highest levels of hardness and elasticity, allowing it to resist stretching and endure a traction force of 60 to 65 grams. In contrast, Caucasian hair exhibits varying degrees of resistance, capable of withstanding 40 to 45 grams of force. African hair, however, is the most delicate, with lower resistance and a tendency to break, managing only 30 to 35 grams of force.
With this understanding, our ultra-lightweight tape-in extensions are designed to distribute their weight evenly across a broader section of your natural hair strands, safe for long-term wear without causing damage or strain to your hair or roots.
VIRGIN, REMY AND 100% HUMAN HAIR
At HAYR, we prioritise the quality of our products with the same dedication we apply to the information and customer care we offer, ensuring that you can select and enjoy the highest quality products.
Virgin, Remy, and non-Remy hair are all derived from 100% human sources, yet they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. Virgin hair is the epitome of purity, having never been subjected to chemical treatments or dyes. In contrast, Remy hair is sourced from human ponytails, with the cuticles aligned in a single direction, although it may have undergone dyeing or treatment.
It is important to note that the term "100% human hair" encompasses any hair collected from a human scalp. Virgin hair remains untouched by harmful chemicals, maintaining its natural integrity, while Remy hair, though often of high quality, can vary significantly based on its treatment and origin.
Non-Remy hair, while also 100% human, is typically more affordable due to its widespread availability. Manufacturers often source this hair from regions such as China, Vietnam, and India, subjecting it to chemical processing in large acid baths to remove the cuticles. This method results in a generic product that fails to account for the unique diversity of individual hair types.
It is essential to distinguish between Remy and virgin hair. Remy hair can be either untreated or processed, and extensions marketed as Remy may feature highlights, lowlights, or colour treatments for immediate use. However, the label does not guarantee superior quality. The excellence of premium Remy hair hinges on two critical factors: its origin and the manufacturing processes employed. Unfortunately, the prevalent practice of acid bathing diminishes quality by compromising the integrity of the cuticles and disrupting the natural alignment of the hair.
Armed with the insights presented in this guide, you are now equipped to discern between premium hair enhancements and their lesser-quality counterparts, ensuring that your investment not only enhances your appearance but also elevates your confidence and aligns seamlessly with your values, personality and lifestyle.
TYPES OF TAPE-IN EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET
- Real Human Tape-In Hair Extensions: Crafted exclusively from human hair, these extensions contain no animal or synthetic fibers.
- Remy Tape-In Hair Extensions: Renowned for their superior quality, Remy hair is collected with the cuticle intact and aligned in the same direction from root to tip, ensuring a natural appearance.
- Non-Remy Hair: Sourced from multiple donors, this type features hair with mixed directions and misaligned cuticles.
- Cuticle Intact Tape-In Hair Extensions: These extensions maintain the cuticle layer, promoting a more natural look and feel.
- Cuticle Removed Tape-In Hair Extensions: In this variant, the cuticle has been removed and the hair is processed for enhanced smoothness and shine.
- 100% Human Hair Tape-In Hair Extensions: These extensions are composed entirely of human hair, free from synthetic or animal components.
- Virgin Hair Tape-In Hair Extensions: This premium option consists of hair that has never undergone any processing, typically sourced from a single donor.
- Brazilian Tape-In Hair Extensions: Sourced from Brazilian donors, this category may include processed or unprocessed hair, and can be either Remy or Non-Remy.
- Indian Tape-In Hair Extensions: Similar to the Brazilian variant, these extensions are derived from Indian donors and may also be processed or unprocessed.
- Natural Hair Tape-In Hair Extensions: Made from natural human hair, these extensions do not contain any animal or synthetic fibers, though the term does not imply specific length or processing status.
- Synthetic Hair Tape-In Hair Extensions: Designed to mimic the appearance and texture of human hair, these extensions are crafted from silicones and plastics, and cannot withstand heat styling.
At HAYR we are proud to exclusively offer a hand-picked variety of hair extensions made from 100% premium quality and virgin human Remy hair, never subjected to chemical treatment and with cuticles aligned in a single direction, for the highest standard available in the market.
