It’s surprising how the hair weave industry has evolved over the past few years.  And as the industry gains more popularity and the market widens by the day, hair suppliers have created a hair grading system to define the quality of different hair. 

While you’ll find girls all over discussing the different hair grades, it’s surprising that most of them don’t really know how the grading system works. Nowadays, there are diverse types of hair extension and unique marketing terms used to grade the quality of the hair.

All this makes it more confusing for customers when shopping for hair extensions.

The hair grading system is tailored to make sure consumers know what exactly they’re buying. Here is everything you need to know about hair grading to help you tell whether the hair you’re getting is high, medium, or low quality. 

What Is Hair Grading?

China manufacturers created the hair grading system as a simple way to quantify hair-quality for their customers. Once manufacturers created hair extensions, they use the grading system to determine the hair type used in the production and along with the hair’s origin and the donor.

They then grade the hair by marking using unique marks and designate a specific name ready for sale. 

This way, hair experts get the upper hand while installing different hair types to their clients at the salon.  The grading system helps your hairdresser to know the exact proportion of strands per one bundle of hair and the production material used. It as well helps you determine what you need when scouting for your new hair.

Now that you know what hair grading is, let’s find out the essential facts about hair grading system:

1. The Difference Between Hair Grades

With the dramatic change in hair grading system over the past decade, hair types that were once high-quality such as 5A are now considered medium quality hair.

It’s also evident most hair manufacturers aren’t honest about the grades of hair they are selling; for instance, you’ll find them labeling low-quality hair as high-grades to sell at a premium price.

The fact that hair grading system isn’t regulated in any way results in many people being duped about the quality of hair they are buying. Understanding how the grading system works, however, removes the confusion and saves you money eventually as you know what you’re expecting with your order.

Here a quick overview of the different hair extension types:

• 100% Virgin Hair — This is considered the highest quality hair and the most expensive. It’s not mechanically or chemically processed as its pure human hair designed with cuticles facing the same direction. 
• Remy Hair — This one of the long-lasting hair type. While this hair type undergoes chemical and mechanical processing, it’s considered 100% human hair and best quality.
• 100% Human Hair — Unlike Remy and Virgin Hair, this type is 100% human hair and comes with its cuticles stripped off.
• Synthetic Hair — As its name suggests, this hair type doesn’t contain any traces of human hair whatsoever. Being completely synthetic, it’s considered low-quality hair and doesn’t last for a long time.

2. Grade 3A

This is considered low-quality hair, and it’s usually thin. Some manufacturers add animal hair and synthetic fibers to the Grade 3A hair. This hair grade is mostly chemically processed and includes tapered ends that are often split.

This grade mostly sheds and tangles and will only last you for a few washes.

3. Grades 4A and 5A

These are considered lower to medium hair grades. Often, you can expect 100% human hair with stripped cuticles. Grades 4A and 5A hair are typically designed thin. You will find it often tangling, matting and can last you up to a month if well maintained. 

It’s recommended not to buy lengths greater than 12 inches of these grades of hair. This is because this hair grade might tangle with your own locks, making it difficult to remove out of your head. Both hair grades demand greater maintenance and great care while detangling.

4. Grade 6A

You’ll get this grade hair at a reasonable price, and it’s considered a better grade than the previous ones. It’s mostly Remy hair, meaning it’s of high quality and works well with straight hair. This grade is made of medium thickness and can be colored to a medium blond hue. 

The great thing with this grade is that it can be reused and can last for up to eight months if properly maintained. It’s perfect for up to 18 inches of length and works well just like high-quality budget hair. Consider getting a higher grade hair instead if you want curly hair or one that’s longer than 18 inches.

5. Grade 7A

This is a great option if you’re after quality and affordable hair. Grade 7A hair is of high-quality and comes with all the cuticles intact. 7A hair is thick, strong, and it will last for up to a year.

This hair type sheds and tangles much less than the other types and allows you to easily dye to your desired color. You can attain a light shade such as platinum blonde without causing much dryness or damage to the hair-quality.

Choose 7A hair if you like long wavy hair. It’s also recommended that you use a detangling shampoo at least once in every three months.

6. Grade 8A and 9A

Grade 8A and 9A is pure virgin hair, meaning it’s 100% human hair and it’s from a single donor. These grades are unprocessed hair and hall all cuticles intact. The 8A and 9A hair are a bit expensive for their quality and can serve you for up to two years.

It’s designed thicker than lower grade hair and has lesser short hairs blended in the hair bundles. It doesn’t tangle and is way easier to maintain.

It’s also important to note that dyeing or curling this 9A hair grade will decrease its life expectancy. It’s also highly recommended for women with black color hair.

7. Grade 10A & 11A (Brooklyn Hair)

Grade 10A & 11A is the best quality hair available on the market. It’s also the most expensive. 10A & 11A Grade type is pure virgin hair from one donor made of thick ends and sturdy structure.

You can easily dye your hair to reach a white color without damage. Grade 10A hair tangles lesser than your natural hair and does demand great maintenance. This grade of hair will last you for up to five years if only you don’t process them. 

Which Hair Grade Should You Choose?

There you have it! The next time you’re out shopping for hair extensions, make sure to choose based on the hair grading.  Simply put, the higher the grade, the higher the hair-quality. You should also understand that the highest quality hair will cost you more than lower-quality ones. 

Check out our website today for the best hair bundle deals that you won’t find elsewhere.