Why Get Hair Extensions?
 
Are you sick and tired of your current hair style and want to change it immediately? Hair extensions can add instant length volume, thickness or highlights to your hair in just a few hours. They can be attached to your natural hair using many different methods available today.

For example, there is bonding, cold and warm fusion, sew-in, braid-in, heat-sealed in and even clipped in. The hair that is used can be synthetic or human and varies in price and quality. The method of attachment often times dictates the type of hair that will be used.

You definitely get what you pay for with hair extensions, as they are not cheap. Many stylists receive special training from various hair extension companies and become certified to perform specific methods of attachment. Hair extensions are not a one size fits all, and some methods may not be suitable for certain hair textures and conditions.

Here is a list of the TOP FIVE reasons that women and men get hair extensions added to their natural hair.

1. Add INSTANT length, volume or thickness to their hair. They have always wanted long hair or thicker hair and for whatever reason have never been able to grow their own hair out.

2. Cover up a really bad hair cut. So, you got a really short shag hair style and you absolutely hate it? Solution: Hair Extensions

3. Add bold or subtle highlights to your hair without chemical processing.

4. Get a new look for a special occasion, i.e. wedding, prom, formal event

5. Just for fun! Some people like to experiment with their hair styles. Hair extensions offer an instant new look.

In short, hair extensions can be a fun and exciting way to add length, volume and highlights to your natural hair. It is important to do your research on hair extensions by finding out about the different methods available, finding a qualified stylist and maintaining the hair extensions once they are in.


What Are Hair Extensions?

Hair extensions are lengths of either real or synthetic hair that can be affixed close to the scalp through a number of systems. When well matched in color and texture, and professionally applied by a competent extensionist, hair extensions mix in and move naturally with your own hair, making it difficult to tell you are wearing them. They can provide volume, extend hair, and add highlights or lowlights without the harshness of coloring your own hair. Some extensions can be worn continuously for up to 3 months before requiring maintenance.

Hair extensions come in many colors, textures, styles and lengths to match any hair type. Natural or human hair extensions are more expensive because they can be colored, set, curled or treated. Synthetic hair will melt if exposed to the high temperatures of a curling iron or a hot blow dryer; it is used as purchased, and is generally not recommended. Synthetic extenders are available widely at department stores. Human hair extensions are generally purchased through salons that provide extensionist services.

How much does it cost?

The decision to get hair extensions represents a substantial financial commitment initially, depending on how many extensions, what type and method, etc. This will be augmented with professional products to keep the extensions and your own hair healthy as well as regular trips to the salon for maintenance. Note that as your own hair grows out the extensions need to be redone. For a good result extensionists should be licensed cosmetologists. Since there are many methods of applying hair extensions (and many types of hair extensions) it's to your advantage to find a professional who has experience with the process. Here is a quick look at the different methods of applying hair extensions:

Braids, Cornrows, Twists, Locks - Integrates extensions in a visible way in that the braided attachment is seen but blends into the hairstyle.

Weaves - Tiny braids hold hair extensions against the scalp, like cornrows, except these braids are hidden. A concern with this method is that it applies tension and uneven weight to the natural hair where attached, especially when washing the hair or when wet from swimming or other activities. This can not only loosen the weave but it can tug on your natural hair and break it. It can also be difficult to dry the hair beneath the braids and some people will avoid washing their hair as often.

Bonding - The extensions used for this method have a latex plug meant to be glued to your own hair for short terms use. Because this method is fast it's also inexpensive. However, to remove extensions, oil and heat must be used to dissolve the bonding agent, which messy and time consuming. If not removed with care the latex can pull your own hair out.

Metal Tubing - Uses a metal tube clamped over the real hair to attach extension hair. In some cases it can break off real hair, can be difficult to pry open later, and adds additional weight to hair. Experts don't recommend this method for fine hair.

Heat-Shrink Tubing - This method won't harm natural hair but doesn't have a lot of adhesive for holding power needed for extended wear. After a few washings, the tubes can loosen, releasing strands, which then allows even more extension hair to fall out.

Adhesive-Based Fusion - This method is arguably the best, though the type of adhesive used is critical. Wax-based adhesives have a low melting point so a professional grade adhesive is a must. These adhesives can withstand both heat and chemical treatments. The adhesive remover that is used to remove the hair extensions dries the bonding agent to a powdery substance (rather than dissolving it through messy oil and heat).

It is best to consult with your stylist to determine the best type of application method is right for you. Factors to consider are cost, maintenance, damage to your natural hair, and the integrity of your natural hair.