Vietnamese hair is highly regarded globally, particularly in the hair extension and wig industry, but it also has deep cultural significance within Vietnam.

Physical Characteristics:

• Texture: Predominantly straight. It can range from very fine to coarse, but a smooth, silky texture is common. Some natural waviness can also occur, but tight curls are rare.
• Color: Naturally very dark, typically black or a very dark brown. This uniform dark color makes it an excellent base for dyeing, as it lifts well.
• Thickness & Strength: Vietnamese hair is known for being strong, thick, and having a healthy cuticle. This makes it durable and less prone to tangling and shedding when properly cared for.
• Lustre: Often has a beautiful natural shine.
• Length: Traditionally, Vietnamese women have prized long hair, and it's not uncommon to see women with hair reaching their waist or even longer.

Cultural Significance:

• Symbol of Femininity and Grace:
  Long, black, silky hair has historically been considered a hallmark of feminine beauty, grace, and virtue in Vietnamese culture.
• Connection to Traditional Attire:
  It's often associated with the "Áo Dài," the traditional Vietnamese long tunic, creating an iconic image of Vietnamese womanhood.
• Simplicity and Natural Beauty:
  Traditional Vietnamese beauty standards often emphasize natural, unadorned beauty, and long, healthy hair fits this ideal.
• Regional and Ethnic Variations:
  While the above is a general portrayal, different ethnic groups within Vietnam may have their own specific traditions and preferences regarding hair.

Traditional Hair Care:

Vietnamese women have traditionally used natural ingredients to care for their hair. Common practices include:

• Bồ kết (Gleditsia / Soapberry): Roasted and boiled, this fruit creates a natural saponin-rich shampoo that cleanses hair gently without stripping natural oils. It's known for promoting hair growth and reducing dandruff.
• Vỏ bưởi (Pomelo peel): The essential oils from pomelo peel are believed to stimulate hair growth and leave a pleasant fragrance.
• Hương nhu (Holy Basil): Used for its fragrance and potential hair benefits.
• Rice water: The starchy water left after rinsing rice is sometimes used as a hair rinse for strength and shine.

Modern Trends:

• While traditional long, black hair remains popular, younger generations, especially in urban areas, are increasingly embracing global hair trends.
• This includes dyeing their hair various colors (browns, reds, fashion colors), getting perms, and trying different haircuts (bobs, layers, etc.).
• There's often a blend of appreciating traditional beauty while experimenting with modern styles.

The Hair Extension Industry:

Vietnamese hair is highly sought after for hair extensions and wigs globally due to its:

• Quality: Its strength, thickness, and healthy cuticles mean it can withstand processing (like dyeing and styling) well.
• "Remy" Hair: Often, hair is collected with cuticles intact and aligned in the same direction (Remy hair), which prevents tangling and ensures a natural look and feel.
• Natural Straightness and Dark Color: This provides a versatile base for manufacturers.
• Sourcing: Hair is typically sourced from women in rural areas who may sell their long hair for supplemental income. Ethical sourcing is a crucial consideration in this industry, ensuring fair compensation and voluntary participation.

In summary, Vietnamese hair is renowned for its natural strength, silkiness, and dark color, making it both a culturally significant symbol of beauty within Vietnam and a prized commodity in the global hair industry.