As of the time of writing, the .HAIR top-level domain (TLD) is not currently active or in use. Top-level domains are part of the Domain Name System (DNS) of the internet, which helps ensure the smooth operation of internet navigation. These domains are managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), who are responsible for maintaining the integrity and stability of the internet’s address system.
Historically, examples of top-level domains have included ones like .com, .net, .org, and .edu; however, in recent years, there has been widespread expansion of the system, resulting in new top-level domains like .museum, .aero, and .coop. This expansion began in 2012 when ICANN started accepting applications for new TLDs to allow for more internet real estate and to give businesses and individuals more domain options that suit their needs.
As a result, we have seen a proliferation of newer TLDs such as .shop, .blog, and .app, many of which are industry-specific or meant to indicate certain industries or areas of interest. However, according to information found on ICANN’s website and other domain registration services like GoDaddy or Namecheap, .HAIR is not currently a recognized or active TLD.
That being said, it is possible that the .HAIR TLD may be proposed for use in the future, especially given the expansive nature of the beauty and hair care industry. For instance, this TLD could be used by businesses in the hair care industry, from salons to product manufacturers, or for communities of hair enthusiasts and bloggers.
It would be similar to other industry-specific TLDs—for example, .PHOTOGRAPHY for photographers or photography businesses, .REALESTATE for the real estate industry, or .EDUCATION for educational institutions and resources. These TLDs serve to immediately identify the industry or field of a entity, providing an intuitive navigation system for internet users.
In conclusion, while the top-level domain .HAIR is currently not in use nor recognised, it doesn’t mean it will not be used in future. The expanding nature of the internet and the push for more personalised online spaces may eventually lead to its creation and use within pertinent industries.
Sources:
1. ICANN: https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/tlds-2012-02-25-en
2. Namecheap: https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/
3. GoDaddy: https://www.godaddy.com/domains/domain-name-search
4. Verisign: https://www.verisign.com/en\_US/channel-resources/domain-registry-products/zone-file/index.xhtml
5. TechTarget: https://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/definition/top-level-domain-TLD
6. ICANN New gTLD Program: https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/program-status/delegated-strings
