Locks of Gold: How India Powers the Global Wig Empire!

Ever wondered where the world’s finest wigs come from?

The answer might surprise you: India.

India has quietly become the powerhouse of the global wig industry, transforming tonsured temple hair and household leftovers into a multi-billion-dollar business.

But how did a nation better known for its IT boom and Bollywood magic become a cornerstone of the $4 billion wig market?

The secret lies in the quality of Indian hair.

Known for its dark colour, fine texture, and natural strength, Indian hair is prized across the globe.

Unlike chemically treated hair from other sources, Indian hair retains its natural sheen and integrity, making it ideal for wigs and extensions.

This unique quality ensures it blends seamlessly with various hair types, particularly in Europe, the U.S., and Africa.

The journey of Indian hair begins in temples, where devotees shave their heads as a mark of faith and devotion.

Temples like Tirumala Tirupati contribute significantly to this industry, collecting over 500 kilograms of hair daily and generating ₹33 crore annually.

The prized Remy hair, known for its intact cuticles and durability, can command prices as high as ₹33,000 per kilogram.

On the other hand, "comb hair," gathered from homes and barbershops, also enters the global market.

Exported to countries like China, it is processed into high-demand wigs for the U.S., Europe, and Africa.

The demand for wigs is soaring globally. In 2024, the global hair wig market was valued at USD 2.73 billion.

With over 2 billion people experiencing hair loss, wigs and extensions are no longer just fashion statements.

Medical reasons also drive demand, with more than half of doctors prescribing wigs to patients.

Over 40% of those affected turn to wigs or hairpieces.

In India, rising stress levels, irregular sleep patterns, and poor gut health contribute to increasing hair loss, especially among young men.

As a result, wigs and hairpieces are becoming more common domestically, even as exports dominate the industry.

India’s dominance in the wig market is reflected in its numbers. The country accounts for 88% of global human hair exports, contributing $138 million in 2024 alone.

While the global wig market is growing at a steady 7.9%%20from%202024%20to%202031.) annually, India’s wig sector is expanding at almost double that rate, driven by both demand and innovation.

Emerging brands like Radix, Nish Hair, and Hair Originals are capitalising on this growth.

Take Radix Industries for example, with a ₹248 crore market cap, this company specialises in premium Remy human hair, catering to various styles and colours.

Then there’s Nish Hair, for instance.

They are renowned for their extensions and diverse range of clip-ins, wigs, and extensions, offering 45 SKUs across four categories.

Their focus on sustainability and quality has won over customers worldwide.

Hair Originals is another player making strides and providing ethically sourced Remy human hair extensions, including clip-ins, scalp toppers, and wigs.

The brand exports to over 22 countries, supplying top luxury salons in the U.S., Europe, and Africa.

From temples to barbershops, India has turned hair into a valuable global commodity.

India’s journey in the wig industry highlights its remarkable ability to turn a humble resource into a thriving global trade.

With the wig market booming and India’s contributions growing, the country is set to remain a key player in the industry.

Who knew something as simple as hair could spark a global industry and shape millions of livelihoods.

Sources:
The Caravan
Economic Times
Fortune Business Insights
Business Today
YourStory
The StartUp Lab