How Healthy Are You?

Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a great way to get your hair longer, thicker, and fuller than you could simply by using styling products! Extensions have come a long way since they were first introduced. Now, people looking for a change have more options then they could have ever dreamed of. Today you’ll find new tools and chemicals, different methods for attaching the hair, and more style possibilities then ever before.

There are numerous ways to attach extensions, but they break down into three major categories: clip-in extensions, bonded/sewn weft extensions, and strand-by-strand extensions. Clip-in extensions are the easiest of the three systems, because the extensions are sewn onto a clip that the client can place in and take out as she pleases. These extensions will last much longer than traditional extensions, since their calibre is not dependent on the growth of the hair.

Weft extensions are applied in a track form, meaning that the extension hair is bonded on one side, and free-flowing on the other. A weft extension resembles a curtain before it’s attached. The weft is applied one at a time by either gluing or sewing.

The strand-by-strand method refers to extensions that are added in small sections of about fifty to several hundred hairs. This is the most time-consuming of all the methods. These sections are attached to your existing hair by means of clamping devices (like micro links), glues, polymers, or heat fusing methods. The strand-by-strand method is probably the least noticeable of all the other extension methods, even though it takes the longest to complete.

Strand-by-strand extensions can be added either with an adhesive substance or a clamping device. Some people prefer adhesive attachment because the extensions look more natural, while others prefer a clamping device, because it’s less harmful to your hair.

If you’re considering hair extensions, keep this in mind:

* The topic of extensions can be confusing. There are so many brand-name application methods that differ by the materials used and the type of extension hair. If you have any questions about the types of extensions available, just ask your stylist.

* If you have extensions, it’s important to remember that they require extra care and maintenance. Be sure to check with your stylist on the appropriate care and maintenance guidelines for the extensions method you choose.

* Human hair extensions blend better with your real hair, so it’s best to stick with human hair if you want a more natural look. But if you’re looking for crazy colors - like red, pink, orange, or blue - try synthetic hair. You’ll have a lot more choices.

* Extensions can be much heavier than your natural hair. If this intent bothers you, make sure to talk to your stylist about possibly adding fewer extensions.

* Some glues or adhesives used to attach extensions can cause allergic reactions, so make sure to let your stylist know about any allergies you have.