Shop human hair in Nigeria | Hairbyvintage

shop human hair

If you’re looking to shop human hair in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos, you’ve come to the right place. The Nigerian hair market has exploded in recent years, with countless vendors offering everything from affordable options to premium quality human hair. But with so many choices, how do you ensure you’re getting the real deal?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before you buy human hair in Nigeria. We’ll cover the different types of hair available, how to identify quality, where to find the best deals in Lagos, and how to care for your investment.

Why Quality Matters When Buying Human Hair

When it comes to hair extensions, not all hair is created equal. The quality of human hair you purchase will determine not just how it looks initially, but how long it lasts, how it holds style, and how natural it appears.

Many Nigerian women have experienced the disappointment of purchasing hair that looked great in the package but quickly deteriorated after a few washes. This is often the result of purchasing low-quality or improperly processed hair.

Types of Human Hair Available in Nigeria

Before you start shopping for human hair, it’s important to understand the different types available in the Nigerian market. Each type has its own characteristics, benefits, and price points.

Virgin Human Hair

Virgin hair is considered the gold standard in the hair industry. This hair has never been chemically processed, meaning the cuticles are intact and aligned in the same direction. The benefits of virgin hair include:

• Longer lifespan (can last 1-2 years with proper care)
• Ability to be colored and styled without damage
• Natural-looking shine and movement
• Minimal tangling and shedding

When you shop for virgin human hair in Lagos, expect to pay premium prices, but the investment is worth it for the quality and longevity.

Remy Human Hair

Remy hair is another high-quality option where the cuticles are kept intact and aligned, but the hair may have been lightly processed or colored. The key distinction of Remy hair is that all strands run in the same direction, which significantly reduces tangling.

Remy hair offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for Nigerian women who want quality human hair without the virgin hair price tag.

Non-Remy Human Hair

Non-Remy hair is more affordable but comes with compromises. In non-Remy hair, the cuticles are not aligned, which can lead to increased tangling and matting. This hair is often collected from multiple sources and may be chemically treated to create a uniform appearance.

While non-Remy hair can look good initially, it typically has a shorter lifespan and requires more careful maintenance.

Standard Processed Hair

This is the most affordable option and what you’ll typically find in many Nigerian markets. Standard processed hair has undergone significant chemical treatment to achieve a uniform color and texture. The downside is that this processing damages the hair cuticles, leading to shorter lifespan and limited styling options.

Popular Hair Textures and Origins

When you decide to buy human hair in Nigeria, you’ll also need to consider the texture and origin of the hair. The most popular options include:

Brazilian Hair

Brazilian hair is thick, coarse, and durable, making it ideal for women with naturally thick hair. It has a natural wave pattern that works well for loose curls and body waves. Brazilian hair can hold up to chemical processing and coloring, though it’s always best to consult a professional.

Peruvian Hair

Peruvian hair is known for its softness and silkiness. It’s less dense than Brazilian hair, making it a good choice for those who want volume without excessive thickness. Peruvian hair typically has a straight to wavy texture and blends well with many natural hair types.

Malaysian Hair

Malaysian hair is exceptionally silky and shiny with a natural body wave. It’s lighter than Brazilian hair and has a fine texture that works well for sleek styles. Malaysian hair tends to be more expensive but offers a luxurious appearance and feel.

Indian Hair

Indian hair is versatile and known for its fine texture and natural wave patterns. It’s often used in high-quality hair extensions because of its strength and ability to hold curls. Indian hair is typically available in both virgin and Remy qualities.

Mongolian Hair

Mongolian hair is similar to Caucasian hair in texture – fine, soft, and naturally straight or slightly wavy. It’s less common in the Nigerian market but prized for its ability to create natural-looking blends for women with fine hair textures.

Where to Shop for Human Hair in Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos is a hub for beauty products in Nigeria, with numerous options for purchasing human hair. Here are the main places where you can shop human hair in Lagos:

Physical Stores in Lagos

Lagos has several dedicated beauty supply stores and markets where you can find human hair:

• Ikeja City Mall: Home to several beauty supply stores offering a range of hair options
• Balogun Market: One of Lagos’s largest markets with numerous hair vendors
• Trade Fair Complex: Known for wholesale hair purchases
• Apongbon Market: Another popular market for beauty products
• Lekki Phase 1: Several boutiques and beauty stores offering premium hair

Online Hair Retailers in Nigeria

The convenience of online shopping has made it increasingly popular for Nigerians to buy human hair online. Benefits include:

• Wider selection than physical stores
• Ability to compare prices and read reviews
• Home delivery across Nigeria
• Often better return policies

When shopping online for hair in Nigeria, look for established retailers with verified customer reviews and clear return policies.

Direct From Importers

Some businesses in Lagos import hair directly from manufacturers abroad. Buying from these importers can sometimes get you better prices, especially if you’re buying in bulk. However, you need to verify the quality and authenticity of the hair before making large purchases.

How to Identify Quality Human Hair

With so many options available, how can you ensure you’re getting quality human hair? Here are key indicators to look for:

The Feel Test

High-quality human hair should feel soft and smooth, not rough or plastic-like. Run your fingers through the weft – it should glide smoothly without catching. The hair should have a natural weight to it; if it feels unnaturally light, it may be synthetic or low-quality human hair.

The Burn Test

If possible, perform a burn test on a few strands. Human hair will burn slowly and smell like burning human hair (similar to burning feathers). It will turn to ash. Synthetic hair will melt, curl away from the flame, and smell like burning plastic.

Cuticle Alignment

For virgin and Remy hair, the cuticles should all be aligned in the same direction. You can check this by running your fingers up and down a small section of hair. If it feels smooth in both directions, the cuticles may not be properly aligned, which can lead to tangling.

Roots and Ends

Examine both the roots and ends of the hair. In high-quality hair, there should be a slight variation in color and thickness from root to tip, mimicking natural hair growth. If the color is perfectly uniform from root to tip, the hair has likely been heavily processed.

Weft Quality

Inspect the weft (the sewn base of the hair extensions). It should be thin, flexible, and neatly sewn with minimal shedding when gently pulled. Thick, bulky wefts can be uncomfortable and difficult to conceal.

Understanding Hair Pricing in Nigeria

The price of human hair in Nigeria varies widely based on quality, origin, and length. Here’s a general guide to what you can expect to pay:

Note: These are approximate prices and can vary based on the vendor, location, and current market conditions.

Hair Extension Types: Which is Right for You?

When you shop human hair in Nigeria, you’ll encounter different types of hair extensions. Understanding these options will help you choose what works best for your needs:

Weaves

Weaves are the most common type of hair extension in Nigeria. They involve braiding your natural hair and sewing the wefts onto the braids. Weaves offer:

• Long-lasting wear (4-8 weeks)
• Full coverage and versatility in styling
• Protection for your natural hair

Wigs

Wigs have gained tremendous popularity in recent years for their convenience and versatility. Human hair wigs allow you to change your style without committing to a long-term install. Benefits include:

• Easy daily styling and maintenance
• No commitment – can be removed anytime
• Protective styling for natural hair
• Ability to experiment with different looks

Closures and Frontals

Closures and frontals are used to create a natural-looking hairline with weaves. A closure is a small piece (typically 4×4 inches) that covers a section of the head, while a frontal covers the entire front hairline from ear to ear.

Clip-In Extensions

Clip-in extensions offer temporary volume and length that can be applied and removed daily. They’re ideal for special occasions or when you want occasional extra hair without a long-term commitment.

Tape-In Extensions

Tape-in extensions use medical-grade adhesive tape to attach wefts close to the scalp. They lie flat and are virtually undetectable when properly applied. However, they typically require professional application and removal.

Caring for Your Human Hair Extensions

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your human hair investments. Here’s how to care for your extensions:

Washing and Conditioning

Wash your human hair extensions every 1-2 weeks, depending on product buildup:

• Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners
• Always detangle gently before washing
• Wash in a downward motion to prevent tangling
• Use cool water for the final rinse to seal cuticles
• Apply a deep conditioner monthly

Drying and Styling

How you dry and style your extensions significantly impacts their longevity:

• Air dry when possible to minimize heat damage
• Use heat protectant sprays before any heat styling
• Keep heat tools at moderate temperatures (below 350°F)
• Sleep with a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase

Storage

When not in use, store your extensions properly:

• Keep in a satin or silk bag
• Ensure hair is completely dry before storage
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• For wigs, use a wig stand to maintain shape

Common Mistakes When Buying Human Hair in Nigeria

Avoid these common pitfalls when you buy human hair in Nigeria:

Choosing Price Over Quality

While budget is important, extremely low prices often indicate poor quality hair that won’t last. Remember that with hair extensions, you typically get what you pay for.

Not Researching the Seller

Always research hair vendors before making a purchase. Look for reviews, ask for recommendations, and verify their return policy.

Ignoring Your Natural Hair Texture

Choose hair that matches or complements your natural texture for the most seamless blend. If you have kinky hair, consider textured extensions rather than forcing straight hair to match.

Not Considering Maintenance Requirements

Some hair types require more maintenance than others. Be honest about how much time you’re willing to dedicate to haircare before making a purchase.

Trending Human Hair Styles in Nigeria

Nigerian women are known for their innovative and stylish hair choices. Here are some popular human hair styles currently trending:

Natural Textured Styles

Kinky, curly, and coily textures are increasingly popular, celebrating natural African hair patterns while offering length and volume.

Bob and Lob Cuts

Chin-length bobs and longer lobs (long bobs) remain stylish choices that work well with human hair extensions.

Blonde and Colored Hair

While black and dark brown remain popular, more Nigerian women are experimenting with blonde, burgundy, and other fashion colors in human hair.

Closure and Frontal Installations

Installations that use closures or frontals for a natural-looking hairline continue to be in high demand for their seamless appearance.

FAQs About Buying Human Hair in Nigeria

Conclusion

Buying quality human hair in Nigeria requires knowledge, research, and careful consideration. Whether you choose to shop human hair in physical stores in Lagos or prefer the convenience of online shopping, understanding the different types, qualities, and maintenance requirements will help you make informed decisions.

Remember that investing in better quality hair often saves money in the long run, as premium hair lasts longer and maintains its appearance through multiple styling sessions. Always buy from reputable sellers, verify quality before purchase, and follow proper maintenance routines to extend the life of your hair extensions.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate the Nigerian hair market confidently and find the perfect human hair for your needs.