How much is human hair sold for? You won't believe its cost in global market

New Delhi: Often, we overlook the value of hair that we shed during combing or cutting. Little do we realize that these seemingly insignificant strands hold significant value. The astonishing price of one kilogram of discarded hair may leave you rethinking before disposing of it carelessly.

The untapped potential of human hair

While we lavish care on our hair when it's on our heads, once it falls out, it's often discarded as waste. However, these seemingly useless strands are in high demand globally, fetching billions in trade revenue.

Lucrative trade ventures

Hair traders capitalize on the abundance of shed or cut hair, selling them for substantial profits worldwide. Collectors, often seen alongside household vendors, gather hair from various sources, later exporting them for significant sums.

Historical evolution of hair trade

The trade in human hair dates back centuries, with reports tracing its origins to rural fairs in France in the 1840s. Over time, the trade expanded globally, with countries like China and India becoming significant contributors to the market.

India's role in the global market

India boasts a thriving hair trade industry, with its long, prized hair fetching high prices internationally. The country exports hair to various destinations, including China, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, contributing to a multimillion-dollar industry.

The economics of hair trade

Contrary to popular belief, discarded hair isn't a meager commodity; it commands prices ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 per kilogram. Factors like length and quality influence the price, with chemical-free hair fetching a premium.

Processing and utilization

Upon collection, the hair undergoes sorting, washing, and drying processes before being bundled and exported. The global market for natural hair sees its utilization in various products, from wigs to extensions, catering to diverse consumer demands.