If you’ve ever seen another woman go from rocking a bob to beautiful waist-length hair in a matter of days, you have witnessed the amazing potential of hair extensions.
Hair extensions make it possible to sport the hairstyle of your dreams without having to wait for your hair to grow out. However, if hair extensions are not a product you’re familiar with, they can seem slightly intimidating.
Hair Extensions – What to Look For
If this is the first time that you will be purchasing hair extensions, it’s always better to invest in the best quality hair extensions that you can afford. Virgin human hair, or Remy hair extensions, is slightly more expensive but they will end up lasting you much longer and won’t leave you with tangled or matted locks after several weeks.
The price of your hair extensions will also change depending on how much length you want to gain so think about this before you start looking around.
Hair Extensions – Care
As a first-time hair extensions user, you should know that they will require a little extra care and attention. For one, you will need to reconsider the shampoo and conditioner that you’re currently using as not all products are suitable for hair extensions.
You will also need to make some slight adjustments to your haircare routines. Brushing your extensions at least twice a day and before every wash is a must. You will also need to wash, brush and dry your extensions very carefully if you want to prevent them from tangling.
Never go to bed with wet hair extensions and always place them in a loose plait for a fuss-free morning.
Hair Extensions – Your Options
Now let’s look at your hair extension options and application methods.
- Clip Hair Extensions
Top quality human clip hair extensions give you the freedom to add volume and length to your natural hair whenever you want to. Clip hair extensions are easy to install and with proper care, they can last you up to a year. This is ideal for the first-time wearer who wants a more affordable and flexible option.
- Micro-Link Hair Extensions
To attach micro-link hair extensions, microbeads will be used. The extensions are looped through the natural hair before the bead is clamped down with a pair of pliers. While these hair extensions do look natural, they are known to damage the wearer’s natural hair and slip down the hair shaft quite easily.
- Tape Hair Extensions
Tape hair extensions are definitely one of the more popular options. The extensions are attached to the natural hair using tape, which means your natural hair won’t be damaged because it isn’t required. Tape hair extensions are also very light, which means they won’t pull on your natural hair. The extensions will need to be readjusted every few months.
- Weave Hair Extensions
Weave hair extensions are ideal for coarse and thick hair. To apply the extensions, the natural hair is braided, after which the extensions are sewn into the braids. Some wearers find that if the weft is sewn in too tightly though, it can cause discomfort.
- Fusion Hair Extensions
Fusion hair extensions are discreet but because they are bonded to the natural hair using glue or keratin, it can cause damage. Fusion hair extensions require several hours to install but they will last up to six months, after which they will need to be removed by a professional.