Hair Extension Grades: What Makes 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, and 10A Different?

What Hair Grade Is This? Understanding Hair Quality

A common question we get from potential clients is: “What grade is your hair?”

It’s a great question! If you’re looking to invest in human hair extensions, especially from a reputable vendor, knowing the quality is essential—not just for you but for ensuring your clients love the product.

Let’s dive into the hair grading system, its evolution, and what you should know to choose the best hair extensions for your needs.

The Evolution of Hair Grading Systems

Currently, there is no universal standard for grading human hair extensions. This means there isn’t a definitive “hair grade chart” you can rely on across the board.

In practice, any supplier can label their hair as “8A” or “10A,” regardless of its actual quality. A vendor could sell smelly, tangling, non-Remy hair and still claim it’s “8A grade.”

That’s why understanding the key factors that determine quality is crucial when shopping for virgin hair extensions.

Factors to Consider When Buying Hair Extensions

Here are the main elements to examine when assessing hair extension quality:

1. Wefts: 

• Single Stitch vs. Double Stitch: Double-stitched wefts are more durable and shed less than single-stitched ones.

2. Weight: 

• The standard weight for hair bundles is 100 grams (3.5 oz).
• If the bundle seems cheaper, it might weigh less than the standard, compromising fullness.

3. 100% Human Hair: 

• Reliable vendors, like Hazuhair, only sell 100% human hair.
• Beware of synthetic blends if you’re looking for extensions that last, colour well, and style effortlessly.

4. Remy vs. Non-Remy Hair: 

• Remy Hair: The cuticles are aligned in the same direction, reducing tangling and improving longevity.
• Non-Remy Hair: Tangling is common and can cause significant issues.

5. Raw Hair vs. Virgin Hair: 

• Raw Hair: Completely unprocessed, with cuticles intact.
• Virgin Hair: Slightly processed but still high-quality and with aligned cuticles.
• Both are excellent, depending on your styling needs.

6. Single Donor vs. Multiple Donors: 

• Single Donor Hair: Typically only relevant for niche options like Indian Temple Hair or unique colours like grey.
• Most bundles on the market are from multiple donors, and this is perfectly fine for most hairstyles.

7. Single Drawn vs. Double Drawn: 

• Single Drawn Hair: Most bundles sold in the USA are single drawn, containing varying hair lengths.
• Double Drawn Hair: Fuller and thicker, with hair strands of equal length. It costs more due to the labour-intensive process of removing shorter strands.

8. Colouring: 

• Virgin Hair: Can be lifted to a #27 Honey Blonde.
• Raw Hair: Can be coloured to lighter shades like #613 Blonde or #60 Platinum Blonde.
• If you don’t plan to dye the hair, you can save money by opting for a less expensive bundle.

9. Styling: 

• Quality human hair should be easy to style without issues.
• For the best results, Raw Hair Bundles (e.g., Vietnamese hair) are ideal.

When it comes to hair extensions, it’s essential to understand exactly what you’re purchasing. Instead of relying solely on the “grade” label, consider the factors outlined above to ensure you’re getting high-quality hair that meets your needs.

Understanding the Differences Between 7A, 8A, 9A, and 10A Human Hair Weave

The grading system for human hair extensions—ranging from 5A to 10A and beyond—was introduced by Chinese manufacturers and trading companies to simplify the explanation of hair quality for their clients. However, this system is not regulated, meaning that the grades can vary significantly between suppliers.

Why the Grading System Can Be Misleading

• Inconsistent Standards: A company’s 7A hair may not match another company’s 7A, as there’s no universal standard for these grades.
• Rebranding of Grades: Some suppliers rebrand lower-grade hair (e.g., 5A) as higher grades (e.g., 7A or 8A) without changing the actual quality.
• Grade Inflation: Hair that was labeled as “5A” years ago may now be marketed as “8A” by the same vendor.

Because of these inconsistencies, relying solely on the grade number to assess hair quality can be misleading. Instead, focus on tangible factors like material, texture, and durability.

Key Features of 7A, 8A, 9A, and 10A Hair

Here’s a breakdown of the main differences to help you choose:

3A Grade Hair

3A grade hair is of lower quality and often chemically processed. It may not have been well-maintained before sale, and suppliers sometimes mix it with synthetic fibres or animal hair to improve its appearance.

• Issues: May have a chemical smell, split ends, and shed or tangle easily.
• Durability: Short lifespan, prone to matting and damage.

4A and 5A Grade Hair

These grades are low to medium quality, commonly used in hairstylist training courses.

• Characteristics: Cuticles are stripped, making the hair prone to tangling and matting.
• Maintenance: Requires frequent detangling and high upkeep. Can last up to a month with proper care.
• Usage: Blending with natural hair may be challenging, especially for longer lengths.

6A Grade Hair

6A grade hair offers better quality and affordability, making it suitable for most users.

• Features: Made from Remy hair with cuticles aligned in the same direction.
• Performance: Can be dyed by professionals and lasts up to 8 months for straight textures with proper care.
• Recommendation: Works well for moderate lengths, but for very long or curly extensions, higher-grade hair may be more suitable.

7A Grade Hair

• Material: High-quality Remy hair with all strands aligned in the same direction (minimizing tangling).
• Composition: 100% human hair, ensuring a natural look and feel.
• Durability: Lasts up to 12 months with proper care.
• Use Case: Ideal for moderate use and basic styling needs.

8A and 9A Grade Hair

• Material: 100% virgin human hair from a single donor, with strands all aligned in the same direction.
• Thickness: Bundles are fuller, with fewer short hairs mixed in.
• Durability: Can last up to 24 months with good maintenance.
• Processing: Unprocessed, offering natural strength and flexibility for styling.
• Use Case: Suitable for those seeking higher durability and more styling options.

10A Grade Hair

• Material: Premium-quality virgin human hair with all strands at the same length.
• Strength: Thick, strong, and capable of enduring extensive processing, including bleaching to white or platinum blonde.
• Durability: Long-lasting with proper care, maintaining its quality even after frequent dyeing or styling.
• Use Case: Ideal for clients seeking the highest-quality extensions that can withstand extensive customisation.

Choosing the Right Grade for You

While higher grades like 8A, 9A, and 10A are increasingly popular, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget:

• If you need affordable, reliable extensions for short-term use, 7A hair is a solid option.
• For longer-lasting, fuller, and more versatile extensions, 8A or 9A hair is an excellent middle ground.
• For premium quality with the most durability and styling options, invest in 10A hair.

The hair grading system can provide some guidance, but it’s not a definitive measure of quality. Instead of focusing solely on the grade, evaluate the actual features of the hair, such as its texture, origin, and durability.

Ultimately, prioritising high-quality hair that meets your needs will ensure you get the most value for your investment.

Differences Between Single, Double, and Super Double Drawn Human Hair Weaves

When choosing human hair weaves, besides grades like 7A, 8A, 9A, or 10A, terms such as single drawn, double drawn, and super double drawn often arise. These terms describe the manufacturing technique and affect the weave’s thickness and overall appearance. Let’s explore the key differences.

• Single Drawn Hair: Single drawn hair includes strands of varying lengths, tapering from thick at the top to thin at the ends. Around 50% of the strands are of the full length. Natural, mimicking the uneven lengths of real hair. Most affordable. Thinner at the ends, less voluminous.
• Double Drawn Hair: Double drawn hair is sorted to remove shorter strands, with 60–70% of the strands at the full length. Fuller and more uniform from root to tip. More expensive but offers better volume and longevity.
• Super Double Drawn Hair: Super double drawn hair is the thickest, with 70–80% of strands at the full length, ensuring maximum thickness. Luxurious, thick, and uniform. Highest price but exceptional quality and durability. Suitable for all styles and colours, offering long-lasting results.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Single Drawn	Double Drawn	Super Double Drawn
Thickness	Thick at top, thin at ends	Uniform thickness, fuller	Maximum thickness, most even
Strand Length Uniformity	~50-60% full length	~60–70% full length	~70–90% full length
Cost	Lowest	Moderate	Highest
Best For	Natural, casual looks	Polished, voluminous styles	Luxurious, dramatic looks

Which Should You Choose?

• Single Drawn Hair: Perfect for natural-looking, budget-friendly styles.
• Double Drawn Hair: Ideal for those seeking fuller hair with a refined finish.
• Super Double Drawn Hair: The best choice for thick, premium-quality weaves that offer exceptional volume and versatility.

Each option caters to different preferences and budgets, so choose based on your desired look and investment level.

Comparison of Hair Quality Between Countries

1. Brazilian Hair

Highlights: Thickness, Natural Shine, Durability, Luxury

Brazilian hair is perfect for those with a similar skin tone to African American women, offering thick, coarse strands that are naturally shiny and flat. This hair type provides a strong, long-lasting texture ideal for achieving luxurious and fabulous styles.

2. Malaysian Hair

Highlights: Airiness, Softness, Thickness
Originating from Asia, Malaysian hair is known for its soft, airy texture while maintaining a thick and strong structure. It’s perfect for achieving a gentle yet voluminous look, especially when styled in waves. This type of hair is a popular choice on the market for a light, elegant appearance.

3. Indian Hair

Highlights: Thickness, Bounce, Lightness

Indian hair has a thick, durable texture that makes it easy to style, whether straight or curly. It also has a natural luster, giving users a stunning, vibrant look. Known for its bounce and lightness, Indian hair is a versatile and long-lasting option.

4. Peruvian Hair

Highlights: Softness, Thickness, Luxury

Peruvian hair combines the coarseness of Brazilian hair with the luster of Indian hair, offering a luxurious and lightweight texture. It’s thick and shiny, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a balance between volume and smoothness in their hair extensions.

5. Vietnamese Hair

Highlights: Softness, Thickness, Durability

Vietnamese hair is renowned for its natural strength and thickness. Mostly straight, it’s perfect for those who prefer a raw, unprocessed texture. While naturally coarse, the hair can be easily styled into various looks. Vietnamese hair is often considered one of the best in Southeast Asia, particularly for its durability and versatility.

Key Features:

• 100% Human Hair
• Double Stitch Wefts
• Raw hair or Remy Hair (cuticles aligned in the same direction)
• Can be dyed up to a #613 Russian blonde
• Double drawn and full to the tips
• All bundles are 100 grams (standard)

Why Choose Vietnamese Hair:

The hair is thick, durable, and suitable for sew-in extensions. It’s raw hair, often considered to be of top-tier quality, though it’s harder to source and may take longer to supply than other types. Considered by some to be a 12A grade, Vietnamese hair is highly valued for its natural appearance and superior quality.

and…

If you’re looking to buy high-quality wigs or hair extensions, look no further than HazuHair.

We are a trusted Vietnamese hair factory with over 100 skilled workers, offering a wide range of hair styles including wavy, curly, straight, kinky, and more.

Our products come in various colors such as natural black, ombre, blonde, red, pink, and many others.

Reach out to us today!

• Hair Factory: Tan Son 2 Village, Tan Dinh, Lang Giang, Bac Giang Province, Vietnam
• Hotline: +849 4949 3883
• Whatsapp Mrs ThanhLam: https://wa.me/84949493883
• Website: https://hazuhair.com

Myths About Commonly Asked Hair Grade Questions

What Does the Grading System for Hair Extensions Mean?

The grading system, which uses terms like 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, etc., is intended to indicate the quality of human hair extensions. Generally, a higher grade represents thicker ends, greater durability, and more unprocessed hair.

Facts: In theory, a higher grade should mean better quality, but since there’s no universal quality scale, vendors can assign any grade number to their products. The grading system isn’t always reliable.

What Is the Difference Between 5A and 10A Hair Extensions?

5A hair extensions are considered lower quality compared to 10A. 10A extensions are of the highest quality, often made from 100% virgin hair with no chemical processing, offering fuller, thicker ends and a natural appearance with the longest durability.

Facts: Just because a vendor labels hair as 10A doesn’t guarantee its quality. Some bundles may be thin, contain synthetic fibers, or weigh less than expected. The grade number alone d

Are Higher Grade Hair Extensions Always Better?

Higher grade hair extensions are usually better in terms of durability, appearance, and resistance to tangling and shedding. They’re also more likely to withstand heat styling and dyeing.

Facts: Not always. The grading system lacks a standard, meaning higher grade hair extensions may still vary in quality depending on the vendor.

Can You Dye or Bleach Higher Grade Hair Extensions?

Yes, higher grade hair extensions, like 8A, 9A, and 10A, are generally better suited for dyeing and bleaching due to their resilience and quality. However, it’s essential to proceed with caution to avoid damage.

Facts: Even 10A hair can be poorly processed and unsuitable for dyeing. The “10A” label alone doesn’t ensure color compatibility—what truly matters is the actual quality of the hair.

How Long Do High-Grade Hair Extensions Last?

High-grade hair extensions, such as 9A and 10A, can last up to a year or longer with proper care, including regular washing, conditioning, and minimal heat styling.

Facts: While higher-quality hair can last longer, don’t rely solely on the grade to judge its durability. Proper care and maintenance are key to extending the life of any hair extension.

Why Do the Prices Vary So Much Between the Grades?

Price differences reflect the quality, processing, and durability of the hair. Higher-grade hair tends to be virgin and unprocessed, which makes it more expensive but also more durable and natural-looking.

Facts: While higher-grade hair may cost more, always focus on finding the best value within your budget. Sometimes, a lower grade of hair can still meet your needs effectively.

Is There a Standard for Grading Hair Extensions?

No, the grading system isn’t standardized. Different manufacturers and suppliers use their own grading methods, so it’s important to research and trust your supplier to ensure you’re getting the quality you pay for.

Facts: This is the truth! The grading system varies, which is why it’s essential to know your supplier and check for quality.

How Do I Choose the Right Grade for Me?

Consider your budget, how often you plan to wear the extensions, and whether you want to style or dye them. Higher grades are typically better for frequent use and styling, while lower grades may suffice for occasional wear or a tighter budget.

Facts: Always invest in the best quality hair you can afford, as it will last longer and save you money over time.

Do Higher Grade Hair Extensions Require Special Care?

While higher-grade extensions are more durable, they still need proper care to maintain their quality. Use sulfate-free shampoos, avoid excessive heat, and gently brush to prevent tangling and shedding.

Facts: All human hair extensions require care. Treat them as you would your natural hair to ensure they stay in top condition.

Can I Reuse High-Grade Hair Extensions?

Yes, high-grade hair extensions, particularly 9A and 10A, can often be reused multiple times with proper care. Maintaining your extensions properly can make them a cost-effective option in the long term.

Facts: Even hair of decent quality can be reused with the right care. Ensure you’re maintaining the extensions properly during wear and at night for long-term use.

If you have any more questions about hair grades or the grading system, feel free to leave a comment below!