If you love hair extensions, you’ve probably heard of ‘bulk hair’ somewhere. But do you really know what it is and why it’s considered the ‘golden standard’ for braided hairstyles? This blog from GoviHair will walk you through everything you need to know about bulk hair: what is bulk hair, how to choose between bulk hair and bundles, and essential bulk hair care tips.
What Is Bulk Human Hair?
What is bulk hair made of?
Bulk hair is a bundle of human hair that is tied together at the top but is not sewn onto a track or weft. Imagine it as a ponytail that has just been cut and secured at the top.
This key difference makes it incredibly flexible, serving as a “raw material” for hair stylists to work with. It is often used directly for braiding styles or to create custom, individual extensions such as fusion/keratin bonds (U-tips, I-tips, K-tips).
The Source and Quality of the Hair
The quality of bulk hair extensions is determined entirely by its source and how it’s processed. The highest quality hair is typically collected directly from healthy donors. In the market, bulk hair is generally categorized into the following quality grades:
- Virgin Hair: This is the highest, most “pure” grade of hair available. It has never been chemically processed (dyed, permed, bleached), is sourced from a single donor, and has all its cuticles intact and aligned in the same direction from root to tip.
- Remy Hair: This is the golden standard for quality hair extensions. Remy hair still has its cuticles intact and aligned, which keeps the hair smooth and tangle-free. However, it may have been gently processed for color or texture to meet market demands.
- Non-Remy Hair: This is a lower-quality hair, often collected from various sources (such as salon floors or hairbrushes). Because the cuticles are not aligned, this hair is very prone to tangling. It is often coated with a layer of silicone to create a temporary shine and smoothness, which washes away after a few shampoos.
Bulk Hair vs Hair Bundles: Which Is Right for You?
The choice between bulk hair and hair bundles really comes down to what you prioritize. If your main goal is a flawless natural look with the flexibility to customize every strand for your braids, then bulk hair is your go-to option. Conversely, if you’re looking for a fast and efficient solution for adding length and volume with a traditional sew-in, hair bundles are the more practical choice.
| Criteria | Bulk Hair | Weft Hair Bundles |
| Structure | A bundle of loose hair, with no seam or track at the top. | Hair is securely sewn by machine or hand onto a continuous track (weft). |
| Installation Methods | Direct braiding (box braids, twists), fusion bonding (keratin tips), or creating custom wefts. | Sewn directly onto a braided foundation (sew-in), used to make clip-ins. |
| Flexibility & Natural Look | Maximum flexibility. Allows for custom density in each strand. | Less flexible. The weft can be visible if not installed carefully. |
| Installation Time | Longer | Faster |
| Ideal For | Braiding styles, keratin bonding, and anyone who wants full control over their hairstyle. | Traditional sew-in methods for adding length and volume quickly and conveniently. |
>> Read more: How Many Different Types of Curly Weave Hair?
Why Choose Bulk Hair for Braiding?
If you’ve wondering what is bulk hair used for, it‘s the top choice for braiding because of its natural beauty, flexibility, and full control. Without a weft, it can be braided directly from the root for a seamless, natural look—perfect for knotless styles. Stylists can easily adjust braid thickness to match any hair type, from micro to jumbo. Beyond braiding, bulk hair is also ideal for creating fusion extensions, dreadlocks, and custom wefts.
How To Choose The Perfect Bulk Hair?
How Much Bulk Hair Do You Need for a Full Head?
The amount of hair you need depends on your desired thickness and hairstyle. From experience, you will need about 200-300 grams (2-3 bundles) for a full head of braids with medium density. For adding thickness with extensions, 100-200 grams (1-2 bundles) is usually sufficient.
Selecting the Right Hair Texture
The key to achieving a completely natural look with extensions is to choose a texture that most closely matches your own natural hair: straight, wavy, curly, or kinky. This ensures a seamless blend and prevents the extensions from being noticeable.
Essential Bulk Hair Care Tips
To keep your bulk hair looking beautiful and lasting longer, proper maintenance is key. Follow these simple steps.
Pre-Installation: Preparing Your Hair
Always co-wash (wash with conditioner) the bulk hair before installation. This step removes any packaging residue, restores moisture, and ensures the hair is soft and ready to be styled.
Your Daily Maintenance Routine
Keep your hair hydrated by lightly misting it with a water-based leave-in spray. At night, always protect your style with a silk or satin bonnet or scarf to minimize frizz and prevent tailing from friction.
Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Hair
Wash your hair every 1-2 weeks with a sulfate-free shampoo, focusing on cleansing your scalp. Avoid heavy oils and creams that cause product buildup, and let your hair air-dry completely to maintain its integrity.
Where to buy good quality bulk hair extensions
Investing in high-quality hair will ensure your style is durable and that the hair is reusable. Here are the key signs to look for:
- Cuticle Check: The hair should feel smooth downwards but have slight resistance when you slide your fingers up. This indicates healthy, aligned cuticles (Remy hair).
- Even Density: Look for consistent thickness from top to bottom, with very few short filler hairs.
- Minimal Shedding: A few strands coming loose is normal; clumps of shedding are a red flag for poor quality.
- Natural Scent: It should smell clean and fresh. A strong chemical odor often means it’s been over-processed to hide imperfections.
Remember to choose hair from reputable brands like GoviHair to get the best results.
At GoviHair, we’ve been crafting high-quality bulk human hair products right from our factory in Vietnam. We specialize in 100% natural Vietnamese hair, known for its strength, softness, and natural luster. Whether you’re looking to add volume, cover thinning areas, or simply get creative, GoviHair gives you salon-grade hair at factory-direct prices.
With fast global shipping and flexible customization options, it’s easy to find the right curly base that blends naturally and wears comfortably all day.
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FAQs
What is the difference between bulk hair and weft hair?
Bulk hair is a bundle of loose hair strands tied at the top, without any track or seam. Weft hair is hair that has been sewn onto a thin track, ready for sew-in installations.
What hairstyles is bulk hair typically used for?
Bulk hair is primarily used for braiding styles like box braids, knotless braids, and twists. It’s also the raw material for creating strand-by-strand fusion extensions (keratin tips, I-tips) and dreadlocks.
How many grams of bulk hair do I need for a full head?
For a full head of medium-sized braids, you will typically need 200-300 grams (2-3 bundles). The exact amount can vary depending on the desired thickness and braid size.
How much does human bulk hair usually cost?
The cost of human bulk hair varies widely. A 100-gram bundle typically ranges from $50 to over $200 USD. The final price depends heavily on the quality (Virgin or Remy), length, and origin of the hair.
How do I care for bulk hair, and how long does it last?
Care for it by washing gently with sulfate-free products, keeping it moisturized, and protecting it at night with a silk or satin bonnet. With proper care, high-quality human bulk hair can be reused and can last for over a year.
Conclusion
Understanding what is bulk hair is key to unlocking incredibly natural and customized hairstyles. It’s the ultimate choice for flawless braiding and bespoke extensions. Investing in high-quality bulk human hair ensures a beautiful, long-lasting result that truly stands out.
Ms. Victoria