Today, Brazilian hair is one of the most popular hair extension types available. But where does Brazilian hair come from?
Human hair is a multi-billion dollar industry that has ancient origins in many different cultures.
"In the 1800's, peasant women in France were lured into being shorn like sheep to make wigs. In the early 1900's, it was reported that hair sold in the states was coming from sewers and corpses in China. Hair dealers were thought to be shady." , according to a Refinery29 report.
"Most people do not know where their hair comes from, and I don't think they care." says Riquia Hailes, founder of a Just Extensions salon in Los Angeles.
The hair extensions market sources hair from some reliable and trustworthy sources, but there is also a huge risk of shady, poor quality, chemically processed hair suppliers which have flooded this multi-billion dollar market.
The hair bundles industry has devolved into a fierce competition between suppliers trying to outdo their competitors in quality and authenticity.
Why Do Hair Extensions Have Exotic Names?
The terms Brazilian hair, Malaysian hair, Peruvian hair, Russian Hair, Cambodian Hair etc., evoke images of exotic looks, textures and curl patterns often associated with women of those ethnicities.
Some names were created out of thin air in order to stand out in an increasingly diverse and worldwide hair extensions market.
These hair origins sound exotic and are often just fancy descriptors for hair textures that resemble the stereotypical hair quality of women from various tropical areas. (i.e.- Brazil)
Most of these countries do not have a thriving hair donor industry. Due to the poverty that often exists in these areas, there is a minimal chance that women will be fairly compensated for their virgin hair.
Virgin Remy Hair is unprocessed, hair from a single donor with all cuticles intact and flowing in the same direction. It's the most sought after hair, but is rarely found in todays market.
Read More about Virgin vs Remy Hair
However, one place does have a multi-million dollar hair extensions industry; India... Specifically Hindu Temples of India where millions of women donate their hair as part of their ritual show of devotion and faith.
"This level of high quality hair isn't something you can fake.", says Refinery29's beauty editor.
So, Where Does Brazilian Hair Come From?
Brazilian hair is not sourced from Brazil. It is most often sourced from either India or other manufacturing giants of the world, like China and certain countries in Asia.
The names, Brazilian, Malaysian, Peruvian Hair etc., is most likely hair that is merely branded to satisfy consumer demand for a certain curl pattern, texture, durability, softness, luster and/or heat resistance.
"Brazilian hair" is characterized by a soft feel, medium luster and thickness with a natural durability that holds well under various temperatures and conditions. It is also a deep natural black color that approximates what is known as color (1B).
Read More about Hair Types and Qualities
Regardless of where hair is sourced from or how it is processed, the fact remains that human hair textures do vary naturally and have unique qualities that are based on human genetics.
Some virgin hair donors have hair that is naturally coarse or thick. Some hair is naturally thin, silky or shiny. Those traits, combined with unique processing techniques such as washing, conditioning and steam processing, keep the virgin hair intact and of high quality.
The hair extension industry is not regulated by any governing body, so the hair on the market today will often make claims that can't be easily verified. Hair grading systems (Grade 8A) and claims of Virgin Remy hair without any verification have put a grey cloud over the authenticity of the entire market.
So Should I Buy Brazilian Hair?
There are many quality hair vendors whose products claim to be free from chemicals, dyes and synthetic fibers and they have hundreds of satisfied customers to vouch for their claims.
You often get what you pay for in this industry so don't be afraid to invest in good hair extensions regardless of the brand name or claimed origin.
Aleene’s fabric Fusion is designed to adhere fabrics together but works fairly well and is commonly used as a weft sealant. It has a gel like consistency that doesn’t make the hair weft stiff as a board. It also dries fast and doesn’t lose any strength after it gets wet. The gel like consistency may not always seep into the hair weft very well and may require some dabbing in order to penetrate the wefts and seal them. Fabric fusion dries clear and works well in combination with 
. Since your virgin hair is not getting nutrients from your body, it can become 
is an excellent leave-in conditioner to add to your daily hair-care routine. Mixed with high-quality sunscreen, this rich leave-in conditioner protects your hair from UV rays for when you are being fabulous in the sun. KeraCare Leave-In Conditioner also protects against thermal damage and breakage from straighteners, curlers and hair dryers. 
Nourishing Leave-In Spray attacks tangled hair and makes it smooth and shiny without weighing your hair down. This leave-in conditioner spray contains hair-healthy substances to nourish your hair. If you have dry ends, EverCreme Nourishing Leave-In Spray will leave every inch of 
will treat your hair. With this non-sticky, lightweight leave-in conditioner, you will be able to give your hair a nourishing fix and make it super manageable. This leave-in conditioner contains healthy ingredients that moisturizes while leaving you with light, silky curls and waves. Whether you have thick or fine hair, Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner can adapt to all virgin hair types. 
, you can seal moisture in your hair for long-lasting sheen. Created from natural ingredients, such as 
repair damaged hair, but it promotes strong, luscious hair as well after daily use. 
you will be able to give your hair the nourishment that it needs to stay healthy and strong. A little spritz goes a long way with It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner. This product is also suitable for all virgin hair types.
, a revitalizing hair product that leaves your hair moisturized without the buildup of protein. Whether for untangling hair or keeping your hair soft, this leave-in conditioner can be used for any purpose for all hair types. By using this effective leave-in conditioner, you will also repair damaged hair, strengthen it and promote healthier hair. Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Tri-Wheat Leave-In Conditioner comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle that allows you to control the amount you need for your hair. 
Wash your hair in a downward motion, working conditioner from the top down in one motion. Rinse well and then style. This is great for curly styles.
in your hair twice a month. More or less, depending on the hair’s need. This is very important if you have chemically treated the hair or use irons.
if you want to keep the wavy look.
to your hair. Once this is completed, make sure you air dry your hair. You can then style it as you wish. If you apply heat to your hair when styling it, make sure that you put some heat protectant spray to prevent damage. Virgin Brazilian hair is natural and can be very sensitive to heat, causing it to dry out and lose its naturally protective cuticle layer. Be sure to wash your hair at least once a week and follow a deep conditioning process.