Human hair

Peruvian vs. Brazillian Hair

Published By: Kennedy

Last Updated: February 14, 2022

Peruvian hair and Brazilian hair are actually similar in a lot of ways. However, there are some slight differences you need to know that can determine what kind of hair is right for you. 

Peruvian Hair vs. Brazilian Hair

Peruvian hair and Brazilian hair are both beautiful textures that blend well with African-American hair. The main differences between them lie in their texture and best hair care options.

If you need something more low maintenance, then Peruvian hair is the best option. If you want something with more shine, Brazilian hair is the best option. Peruvian hair tends to be a little coarser, while Brazilian hair tends to be silkier. Peruvian hair also lasts longer than Brazilian hair and is very heat resistant.

 Both kinds of hair can have different curl patterns, and both are around the same price. 

Qualities of Peruvian Hair 

Peruvian hair is thicker hair that blends well with African American hair. It can come curly or straight, and either way has a lot of volume. Although it looks heavy and very thick, it is actually very lightweight.

It is slightly coarser than Brazilian hair, which blends well with the African-American texture. Many people choose Peruvian hair because of how comfortable it is to have on, so you can wear many bundles, but not even feel its weight.

The curl pattern of Peruvian hair is usually looser than that of Brazilian hair but is still very voluminous. The durability of Peruvian hair is also an advantage because it lasts for a long time and is easy to maintain. This hair holds curls and withstands heat very well. It is also very dense. Peruvian hair typically ranges from about $20 – $40 per bundle. 

How to Care for Peruvian Hair 

1. Use Shampoos Without Silicones

Shampoos that contain silicones can be very damaging to the hair over time. Silicones are synthetic polymers that are used in hair products in order to keep the hair hydrated and moisturized. However, studies have shown that they block out the evaporation of water, which can keep the hair from absorbing additional moisture.[1]

Silicones are heavy, and while they may provide a protective layer for the hair and keep it from frizzing at first, they can also weigh the hair down. Silicones are harder to wash out, and over time that product can build up – making the hair dry. Your hair needs to be able to be completely clean if you want its soft and bouncy look to last. 

Peruvian hair is lightweight hair, with bouncy curls, and silicones have a high likelihood of weighing the hair down and making it look limp. In order to ensure you will not accumulate product build-up, it would be best to buy a shampoo that does not contain silicones. 

Alternatively, you could co-wash your hair as well. Co-washing is a method used to clean the hair, while not stripping the hair of the moisture that it needs. 

The method of co-washing is simply using a conditioner to clean your hair. Shampoos are great for the day that you want to do a deep clean, but co-washing is great for removing product buildup. Usually, after a week or even a couple of days of using styling products, your hair will start to get stiff and in need of a fresh start.

Co-washing will not only re-moisturize your hair but also cleanse your hair and scalp enough to hold you over for the next wash day. You should co-wash as needed, it really depends on what your lifestyle is and how frequently you use products. 

If you are wearing Peruvian hair in its natural, curly state, then co-washing will help keep those curls bouncy and fresh.

2. Detangling Brush 

One thing you want to avoid after you purchase hair is pulling it out. One way you can pull out hair is by combing it. The hair needs to be combed, but it should not be combed every day, or it will not last as long. 

When you are combing curly Peruvian hair, you should use a detangling brush. A detangling brush is specifically made to detangle the hair in a more gentle way, which makes it easier to comb. Using a detangling brush will allow you to comb your hair for less time, which will cause less hair to fall out. 

3. Heat Protectant

Using a heat protectant is one of the best ways to protect hair that you are applying heat to. Although Peruvian hair has a high heat tolerance, it will still look better and last longer if you protect the hair before applying heat. A heat protectant is simply something you apply to the hair to create a protective layer from the heat. The product has to be able to withstand high temperatures, while also imparting moisture into the hair.[2]

There are heat protectant sprays you can buy, but there are also natural products you can use as well. Argan oil and coconut oil are some of the best natural heat protectors – but you don’t want to use too much or your hair will smoke.

Qualities of Brazilian Hair 

Brazilian hair is coarse and is also very dense. It is usually purchased as curly hair, and it is not uncommon for it to contain several curl patterns. Brazilian hair looks very natural and is more durable than most hair types. The hair is also silkier and shinier than Peruvian hair. 

There is usually a natural luster attributed to Brazilian hair, so if you want a more shiny hair, then that would be the route to go. Brazilian lasts for a long time, but not as long as Peruvian. Also, Brazilian hair requires slightly more maintenance than Peruvian. Brazilian hair typically ranges from about $25 – $45 dollars per bundle. 

How to Care for Brazilian Hair

1. Deep Condition 

When wearing Brazilian hair, you want to keep that natural shine, and moisturized curls in place for it to look its best. However, after styling throughout the week, the hair can tend to get dry. 

Fortunately, there is a way to revive those curls and restore shine through deep conditioning the hair at least once a week. Deep conditioners impart extra moisture into the hair that will last throughout the week. 

After applying a deep conditioner, it is best to cover the hair with a shower cap and let it sit on your head for at least an hour. When the shower cap is on your head, it will create a steamy effect inside and help the deep conditioner penetrate the hair shaft. 

Brazilian hair thrives off of moisture, so making sure that moisture stays in the hair as much as possible will ensure that it lasts longer and looks better. 

2. Night Protection 

Protecting Brazilian hair at night will prevent matting and dryness. One great way to protect your hair, especially if you are wearing a weave, is to use a silk or satin bonnet. You can lose a lot of moisture in the hair as you’re sleeping, so applying a soft covering that does not absorb moisture is beneficial. 

Applying a silk or satin bonnet on top of your head before you go to bed will keep the hair from rubbing against your pillowcase – which can cause breakage – and hold in moisture throughout the night. A good silk bonnet costs between $10-$15. 

3. Oils 

Oils work so well to keep Brazilian hair soft, moisturized, and shiny. The best way to apply oil onto the hair is while it is wet. When the hair is wet it can absorb the oil better. You also do not need to use a lot of oil.[3]

If you make Brazilian hair too oily, it can become weighed down and dirty very quickly. A small amount goes a long way. There are several oils you can use, one being avocado oil. Avocado oil is loaded with fatty acids which help soften the hair and impart shine. 

Argan oil also imparts moisture and shine, and is very lightweight which means that it will not weigh the hair down too much. 

The Final Word

Though these two hair patterns are both great options, knowing what you need and what you are willing to do are important. 

Kennedy

I have always had a love for writing and have been blogging for about 3 years now. I have a passion for teaching what I have learned over the years, especially about hair. I have had almost every hairstyle - typical of a cosmetologist’s daughter- including the big chop in 2015. With all the knowledge I have gained, I feel it is my duty to help others on their healthy hair journey. I believe education can be fun, and I strive to make it fun to learn about beautiful black hair.

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