Are you looking for a way to add length, volume, and texture to your hair? Hair extensions can be an excellent solution. Whether you’re looking for a temporary or permanent change, there are several types of hair extensions available that can help you get the look you want. Before purchasing any type of extension, however, it’s important to understand how they work and what kind is best suited for your individual needs. Here are 7 things everyone should know about using hair extensions.
1. Different Types of Hair Extensions:
Depending on your lifestyle, needs, and budget, there are different types of hair extensions available. Clip-in extensions can be added quickly and easily for a temporary change. They are affordable and relatively easy to apply; however, they’re not suitable for all hair types. Sewn-in extensions require more work but last much longer than clip-ins. According to the folks at Wig Reports, tape-in extensions offer a balance between the two – they can be applied fairly easily and last several months with proper care. Also, be sure to consider the quality of the hair you’ll be using. For a natural look, it’s best to purchase 100% human hair extensions.
2. Getting the Best Fit:
When purchasing hair extensions, make sure that they fit your head size and match your natural color as closely as possible. If you choose clip-ins, be sure to pick ones that won’t slip out when you move around or put them up in a ponytail. Sewn-in extensions should be secured by a professional stylist who is experienced in applying them correctly so they don’t cause any damage to your hair. For example, if you have fine or thin hair, be sure to find a stylist who specializes in extensions for that type of hair.
This will help you get the best possible fit and also ensure that your hair isn’t damaged in the process. Also, be sure to ask your stylist about their return policy in case the extensions don’t fit as expected.
3. Caring for Hair Extensions:
Properly caring for hair extensions is essential if you want them to last and maintain a natural-looking appearance. If you have real human hair extensions, use products designed specifically for that type of hair – avoid using any products with alcohol or sulfates, as these can damage the hair follicles over time. Natural oils should also be avoided since they can cause the hair to become greasy.
When washing clip-ins or sew-in extensions, use shampoo and conditioner meant specifically for those types of extensions and only wash them once a week at most. Additionally, avoid using hot styling tools on the hair to prevent damage.
4. Quality Matters:
It’s important to choose high-quality hair extensions that match your natural hair in both thickness and color or you risk the extension looking fake or mismatched with your own locks. Some synthetic extensions may look natural at the start but will become easily damaged over time, so make sure to invest in good-quality human hair extensions. The better quality you buy, the longer they’ll last and the more natural they’ll look when applied.
In addition, be sure to consult a professional stylist or colorist if you plan on dyeing the extensions. Also, make sure to always use a heat protectant spray so your hair extensions don’t become damaged by hot styling tools.
5. Cost:
The cost of hair extensions can vary greatly depending on the type and quality of hair used, as well as any services associated with installation. Sewn-in extensions may require several appointments to ensure proper fitting and application, so it’s important to consider this when deciding how much money you want to spend. Clip-ins tend to be more affordable but may need replacing more often due to wear and tear.
Additionally, you will likely need additional products for styling and care, which could add up quickly over time. This makes it important to consider not only the up-front cost but also the ongoing costs associated with looking after your hair extensions.
6. Potential Effects on Natural Hair:
Although hair extensions can be a great way to add length or volume to your hair, there are also potential risks associated with using them. Some types of extensions can cause damage to the scalp and follicles if not applied properly; this is why it’s so important to get them done by an experienced professional who knows how to do them safely and securely. Additionally, clip-ins should never be left in for longer than two days at a time, and sew-in extensions should be replaced or removed after several months.
Finally, if you’re starting to notice thinning in your natural hair, it may be a sign that the extensions are causing too much tension on your scalp. In this case, it’s important to remove them as soon as possible.
7. Removing Hair Extensions:
Removing hair extensions is an important part of the process, as leaving them in for too long can cause damage to your natural hair. If you have clip-ins, simply unclipping them is usually enough; however, if they’ve been put in with glue or adhesive tape, you may need to use a special remover solution provided by your stylist. Sewn-in extensions should be removed by an experienced professional as it can be difficult and time-consuming to do it yourself. It’s also important to remember that most extension types cannot be reused after removal, so make sure you factor this into the cost when determining how much you want to spend on extensions.
Overall, hair extensions can be a great way to add length or volume to your natural locks. However, it’s important to consider the cost and potential effects on your scalp before investing in them. Quality matters when choosing extensions as well; higher-quality human hair is typically more expensive but will last longer and look more natural than synthetic options. If you decide that extensions are right for you, make sure they are applied by an experienced professional and follow all of the above tips for proper care so they remain healthy and beautiful. With these guidelines in mind, you should have no problem finding the perfect set of hair extensions for your needs!