When shopping for hair extensions, you’ve probably come across terms like single drawn, double drawn, and super double drawn. These categories affect everything from how thick your hair extensions look to how natural they blend—and understanding them is key to choosing the right quality for your personal or professional use.
In this blog, we’re breaking it all down in simple terms so you can shop confidently, whether you’re a hair lover, hairstylist, or beauty entrepreneur.
What Is “Drawn” Hair?
The word “drawn” in the hair industry refers to the process of trimming or sorting hair strands in a bundle to achieve a uniform length. In raw human hair bundles, hair is collected in its natural form—meaning the strands are of different lengths, just like natural hair on a real human head. The more “drawn” the hair is, the more uniform and fuller the bundle looks from top to tip.
Let’s explore the three main types:
1. Single Drawn Hair
Definition:
Single drawn hair is the most natural form of human hair bundles. It contains a mix of lengths, with around 50–60% of the strands being full-length, while the rest taper down gradually. This creates a natural, tapered look—thicker at the top and thinner at the ends.
Pros:
- Looks very natural
- More affordable
- Good for clients who want a layered or feathered effect
Cons:
- Less volume at the bottom
- May require trimming to achieve a fuller appearance
Who It’s For:
Perfect for someone who wants a natural, everyday look or is on a budget.
2. Double Drawn Hair
Definition:
Double drawn hair undergoes a second process to remove shorter hairs, leaving a bundle where about 70–85% of the strands are the same length. This makes the hair look thicker and more voluminous from root to tip.
Pros:
- Fuller and healthier look
- More consistent thickness
- Better for creating sleek, full styles
Cons:
- More expensive than single drawn
- Slightly less natural appearance (but more polished)
Who It’s For:
Ideal for those who want a glam, fuller look and don’t mind investing a bit more for volume.
3. Super Double Drawn Hair
Definition:
Super double drawn hair is the highest quality level in this category. Around 90–95% of the strands are of the same length, making the bundle appear extremely thick and even from top to bottom. There are barely any short hairs in the weft.
Pros:
- Luxurious, high-end appearance
- Ultra-thick from root to tip
- No need for extra bundles
Cons:
- Highest price point
- May feel too heavy for those preferring natural taper
Who It’s For:
Luxury lovers, brides, influencers, or clients who want premium quality and head-turning volume.
How Drawn Levels Connect to Hair Grading
You’ve likely seen hair being labeled as 8A, 10A, or even 12A. These are hair grading systems, and while there is no industry-wide standard, they help sellers and buyers understand the quality and processing level of the hair.
Here’s the connection:
- Single Drawn Hair is usually found in lower grades like 7A–9A, meaning less uniformity and lower cost.
- Double Drawn Hair fits into mid-to-high grades like 10A–11A, showing more consistency and better quality.
- Super Double Drawn Hair is considered premium or luxury (12A–13A and above). It represents top-tier quality and is often marketed as virgin or raw hair with little to no processing.
Keep in mind that while these grades give a general idea, the best way to judge quality is through feel, weight, cuticle alignment, and how well the hair holds up over time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a hairstylist installing bundles, a beauty lover buying your next wig, or a hair entrepreneur sourcing for your store—knowing the difference between single drawn, double drawn, and super double drawn hair helps you make informed choices. For a natural look, go single drawn. For more volume, choose double drawn. And if you’re going for glam, go all the way with super double drawn.
Have questions about which type is right for your needs?
Drop a comment or message us—we’d love to help you find the perfect match!