How to Tell If You Have Real Human Hair Extensions

You can tell if hair extensions are real by performing a burn test¹, feeling the texture, and observing their appearance and heat resistance². Real human hair will burn to ash with a burnt hair smell, feel soft and natural, have a more natural shine, and be able to withstand heat without melting. In contrast, synthetic hair will melt into a hard, plastic ball and smell like burning plastic. As someone deeply invested in hair quality, I've seen firsthand how distinguishing between genuine human hair and synthetic alternatives can make a huge difference, especially for salon owners who cater to discerning clients.

How Do I Know If My Hair Extensions Are Real?

Dive Deeper

When I first ventured into the world of hair extensions, the overwhelming variety available taught me more than a thing or two about quality. To determine the authenticity of your hair extensions, three simple tests—burning, texture, and heat—provide definitive answers.

Burn Test

Real human hair burns with some specific features: it should sizzle slightly and turn to ash, emitting a familiar burnt hair smell. Conversely, synthetic hair emits a tell-tale scent of burning plastic and forms a hard, plastic-like residue.

Texture and Appearance

Human hair exhibits a natural softness and shine that synthetic hair can't mimic. It moves fluidly and catches light in a more subtle, natural manner. If you run your fingers through it, human hair should feel smooth and thick all the way down, unlike synthetic hair that may feel coarse or overly shiny and perfect.

Heat Resistance

Heat styling is a staple for most. Human hair can withstand the heat from curling irons and straighteners without melting, whereas synthetic fibers can’t handle the heat and may clump or distort.

Pro Tip: Always carry out multiple checks. Combining all three tests provides the most confidence in distinguishing real from fake.

Is 12A or 10A Hair Better?

Dive Deeper

As we dive into different hair grades, it’s essential to grasp what "12A" and "10A" signify. These grades represent the quality level of the hair, with higher numbers indicating better quality. Understanding this can save you from making costly mistakes.

Quality Comparison Table

Pros and Cons

• 12A Hair³: Perfect for high-end clients who expect durability and versatility. If you’re a salon owner like me dealing with upscale clients, this is the gold standard for creating loyal customers.
• 10A Hair: More suitable for clients on a budget. It offers a taste of luxury but with limitations on lifespan and style options.

With Plucharm Hair, we’ve zeroed in on offering not just 100% real virgin human hair but top-quality grades like 12A that guarantee longevity and customer satisfaction.

Which Is The Healthiest Hair Extension?

Dive Deeper

There’s a reason some extensions stand out as the healthiest option—they're not only about aesthetics but also how they impact the health of your natural hair over time. My personal preference has always leaned towards tape-in extensions⁴ for their minimal damage.

Popular Options

1. Tape-In Extensions

   • Pros: Minimal damage, easy to install and remove.
   • Cons: Requires reapplication every 6-8 weeks.

2. Hand-Tied Wefts

   • Pros: Lightweight, comfortable for everyday wear.
   • Cons: Can be time-consuming to apply.

3. Clip-Ins

   • Pros: Temporary and customizable; easy to install.
   • Cons: Can be heavy, potentially damaging if worn daily.

Did you know? Tape-in extensions are hailed as the healthiest because they distribute weight evenly across your scalp, reducing stress on individual strands.

Choosing the right extension type is pivotal for your client base, especially those who frequent salons and are particular about hair health. As salon owners, offering a variety guarantees you'll have suitable options for every customer.

How to Differentiate Human Hair from Blend?

Dive Deeper

Knowing how to differentiate between pure human hair and blends⁵ can elevate your game as a hair expert. Blends are cheaper because they're a mix of human and synthetic fibers, but they can change a salon’s reputation from premier to problematic overnight if used unbeknownst to clients.

Key Differences

• Blends offer an enticing price but compromise on longevity.
• Human hair maintains consistency in style and appearance over time.

Telltale Signs

• Heat Styling: Blends react poorly to heat; they might melt or lose shape.
• Color Variability: Blended gear can't be dyed like human hair—it may not take color uniformly.
• Texture Honesty: Human hair is seamless when felt. Blends, however, might feel inconsistent, thick in one area and thin in another.

Expert Insight: Invest in a quality supplier⁶ like Plucharm Hair. Authentic human hair ensures happy customers who return for maintenance, not repairs.

Conclusion

Determining if hair extensions are real is an art form I’ve come to appreciate and rely on in my professional journey. Remember, real human hair passes the burn test¹ with flying ash, exudes natural texture, and withstands salon-grade heat scenarios. Whether you're considering 12A vs. 10A or opting for the healthiest extensions, confidence in your choices stems from understanding the facts, trusting reliable suppliers, and valuing your clients’ unique needs. With Plucharm Hair, you choose not just excellence but an unwavering partnership that uplifts both your brand and clientele. Let's ensure the world never has another bad hair day.

Every strand tells a story—make it one of sophistication and integrity. Select authenticity, and turn every head with Plucharm.