The ins and outs of successful hair integration!
Do you fantasize about having a long mane of curly tresses? Perhaps your hair is thin and never holds a style. If you are a candidate for hair extensions, here are some helpful considerations to help you determine the best way forward.
Celebrities constantly change their looks, growing their locks seemingly overnight. They also have money to burn. Extensions add length or volume using several different methods to integrate with real hair, but they can be costly. Before making a decision about the process, learn about the methods and price tag that fits your taste, budget and lifestyle.
Whether you desire long locks or a thick head of hair, if you want to augment your coiffure take the following points into consideration:
Does it look real?
The first consideration of hair extensions is to create the most natural look possible, whether you are lengthening or adding volume. Waist-length tresses are a sure giveaway that you’re wearing extensions. Consider these issues:
- Human hair feels like your hair and can be ironed, curled and colored.
- Synthetic hair is less expensive but can’t handle the heat.
- The right color, texture and matching weight are key.
- Go to an experienced, personally recommended professional extentionist (yes, that’s what they are called) and ask to see photos of their work.
Techniques
There are several methods to discuss with your hairstylist. With names like Fusion, Netting, Micro Loops and Lace Fronts, it can be a confusing tangle to sort out. Sewn-in tracks can be heavy and clip-ins are hard to brush, tracking is fast and lasts. Whether integrating new hair with braid or weaves, find out what is best for your hair type, lifestyle and pocket book. No method lasts more than a couple of months.
- Bonding is a hair weave that glues extensions onto natural hair.
- Micro Rings use small metal rings with hair extensions attached to hair.
- Hook &Latch uses no glue or threads, lies flat and allows up-dos.
- Netting uses natural hair under a thin net with extensions and works well for thinning hair.
- Lace Fronts weave in extensions by knotting single strands of hair.
- Tracking is a common method of braiding natural hair across the head with extensions sewn to braids with a few “tracks” or a full head weave.
Glue-affixing methods are more affordable, costing hundreds of dollars as opposed to thousands, and hair can be reused for up to a year. The old glue-gun method had breakage risks and is no longer in fashion.
Applications have improved in recent years, shortening the time. Any extension has to be “tightened” every few months to protect your own new hair. Recent techniques include fusing hair with a keratin-based adhesive. Advances are happening in synthetic hair too.
Clip-in option
This popular technique allows you to try extensions temporarily. Each clip is integrated into hair for length and volume and can be worn all day or only on special occasions. The safest and most flexible solution: clip-ins may be a smart choice for women looking to lengthen hair or with thinning hair, since it does the least damage.
Clip-ins can be custom-fit and professionally styled. The downside is they must be removed at night, as sleeping with them can pull out natural hair. Also, they can shift and be revealed on a windy day. An affordable way to try extensions when thinking of investing is a full or partial head weave. Human hair versions can be washed, curled and dyed, if you want to flirt with a splash of color.
Care
Hair extensions need to be treated very gently to avoid tangles:
- A mild shampoo, cool water and a light conditioner are necessary.
- Sleeping on a silk pillowcase or with hair in a ponytail helps avoid matting.
- Human hair extensions need a special brush to avoid damage to the bond.
- Artificial hair comes with its own directions for exact type and specific temperatures for heat drying, if allowed.
Cost
Depending on the technique, the technician and the grade of hair you choose the cost can range from hundreds to thousands. Prices average from $400 to $1,500 per row with an average of one to three tracks. Other expenses include the initial setup appointments and follow-up appointments for “tightening” several weeks later. In contrast, a clip-in extension costs about $200 for a quality human-hair weft.
In summary, make sure you:
1. Go for a natural look
2. Hire a trusted professional
3. Choose quality 100% human hair
4. Protect hair at night
5. Treat gently with mild shampoo and deep conditioner
6. Enjoy your beautiful new hair!