This is a detailed manual on natural hair extensions.
"Hair is the crown you never take off." - anonymous saying.
And, with human hair extensions , you can parade with elegance and even sport an audacious and glamorous look. Even bad hair days will no longer be an obstacle.
The fame of hair extensions has skyrocketed in recent times. Celebrities like Ariana Grande and Jennifer Lopez are just some of the many who have adopted hair extensions to achieve longer, fuller hair. But, hair extensions are not just for Hollywood stars. With the diversity of options available today, anyone can enjoy the benefits of hair extensions.
There are different types of hair extensions available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's explore some of them:
Varieties of Hair Extensions
There are a multitude of ways to apply extensions, but we can differentiate them into two large groups, removable extensions and fixed extensions.
Fixed Extensions
Fixed extensions, as the name suggests, are permanent extensions and require a professional to adjust, apply and later remove them.
Keratin Tip Extensions
Recognized for their naturalness and durability, natural hair extensions with keratin tip are made with keratin microcapsules on top of the hair extension strands, these capsules, which, when melted with the aid of hot tweezers suitable for applying the extensions, “stick” to the natural strands of hair and remain fixed.
This method, if carried out by a good professional, leaves the keratin capsules almost invisible on the scalp, without marked strands or roots showing, as the correct option is to apply it with thinner strands! This is one of the types of hair extension that offers the most natural look to the hair.
Recognized for their naturalness and durability, these extensions require maintenance every 2 or 3 months. Its application lasts an average of 4 hours, as the professional needs to apply strand by strand to the hair along the entire length of the head.
And how are keratin natural hair extensions removed? Many professionals remove keratin extensions using a specific remover, microlink pliers and a fine comb.
The professional should comb the hair roots with a fine comb and spray the remover close to the roots of the extension, only where the keratin capsules are, and continue kneading the keratin capsules with specific pliers for removing keratin extensions.
After kneading these microcapsules well, he must spray a little more remover, so that the strand slides over the hair.
It is a very simple way to do it, and painless.
Tape Extensions
Tape human hair extensions are ideal for straight hair, these extensions are applied strand by strand and require maintenance every 6 to 8 weeks by changing the tape and lifting them.
Tape extensions are a popular and convenient way to add length and volume to your hair. They are comfortable, easy to install and can last up to 8 weeks. However, to keep them looking their best, they require proper maintenance. Some tips and tricks to keep them in the best condition are:
1) Wash your hair with sulfate-free shampoo. Avoid using hot water as it can weaken the adhesive and cause the extensions to fall out. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp and avoid rubbing your extensions. Rinse thoroughly and apply conditioner to the ends of your hair.
2) Let your hair air dry as much as possible and avoid using heat styling tools as they can weaken the adhesive. If you must use a hair dryer, use the cool setting and keep it at least 6 inches away from the extensions.
3) Avoid using oily or greasy products on your hair, as these can weaken the adhesive and cause the extensions to slip.
Weft Extensions
These are extension bands to sew into your own hair. Weft extensions involve sewing bands of hair to your original hair. They are recommended for people with thicker hair.
The advantages are the price factor and a shorter application time. Usually, its application takes an average of 2 hours, and lasts for around 2 months.
Quantity required: 1 to 2 bands of 100 grams each to fill an entire head, however the ideal is to talk to a professional so that they can advise you on the number of bands needed depending on the desired result.
We advise you to buy high quality natural extensions, of the REMY type: In Remy hair extensions, all hair strands are sewn into the band respecting the direction of the cuticle in order to avoid knots.
I-Tip Extensions
This cold styling technique allows you to add volume and length to your hair. A simple silicone ring is enough to attach these extensions to your hair. Simply crush the ring onto your own strand of hair with the help of special extension pliers.
Amount required: To fill an entire head: 125 to 150 grams of hair. To fill in the back of the head: 50 to 75 grams of hair.
How to apply I-Tip extensions to:
1) Use a comb with a handle to draw a horizontal line on the back of the head, at ear level, dividing the hair into two sections.
2) Take a section of your hair and, using a highlighting needle, pass it through the ring. Avoid very thick strands.
3) Place the I-Tip extension inside the silicone ring with the strand of hair already inserted.
4) Position the extension approximately 1.5 cm from the scalp.
5) Using extension pliers, firmly tighten the ring Repeat this process on all strands, both at the back and sides of the head.
To remove I-Tip extensions: The process is similar to the application. Simply press the silicone ring in the opposite direction to open it and carefully remove the extension.
Removable Extensions
Now that we've explained fixed extensions, let's talk about removable extensions:
Clip Extensions
Clip-in extensions are easy to use and extremely popular among celebrities for temporary looks. They are attached to the hair using special clips and can be removed and replaced as needed. Clip-in extensions are a great option for those who want to try different styles without the need for a long-term commitment.
Halo Extensions
After all, what is a Halo extension?
Halo extensions are the current favorite for those looking for a glamorous look without needing the help of a hairdresser.
This extension uses a resistant and completely transparent nylon thread, which is discreetly positioned on the head, guaranteeing the extension's fixation.
It's an effective and harmless way to instantly increase the length and volume of your natural hair.
How does the halo extension stay securely in the hair without any chance of slipping?
In addition to the nylon thread, there are clips attached to the extension strip, providing extra and more secure hold for your hair.
Ponytail Extensions
Do you dream of that ponytail like Ariana Grande? Now it's possible with Ponytail Extensions.
How to apply Ponytail Extensions :
1) Brush your hair and make a ponytail as you normally do (Further back, higher up or to the side...), secure your ponytail with an elastic or a clip;
2) Place the Ponytail around the ponytail made with your own hair;
3) Now wrap the side band of the Ponytail around your ponytail, and secure with the integrated adhesive velcro. You can stretch, curl and braid your ponytail without any problem and according to your desire.
Necessary Care for Hair Extensions
Taking care of your hair extensions is essential to maintain their beauty and durability. This includes proper washing and moisturizing. Hair extensions can be treated like your natural hair in most ways, but it's important to remember to be gentle to avoid any potential damage.
Maintenance with a professional who specializes in hair extensions is also a crucial part of caring for your extensions. Remember, hair extensions are an investment and caring for them correctly can help them last as long as possible.
Suitability and Risks of Hair Extensions
- The suitability of extensions for different hair types
- Potential risks such as damage to natural hair
Hair extensions are suitable for almost all hair types. However, it is important to keep in mind which type of extension is best suited for your hair type.
Hair extensions can provide increased volume and length, however it is crucial to choose high-quality extensions and ensure they are applied and maintained correctly.
Conclusion
Hair extensions certainly provide a boost to the wearer's self-esteem. With the right information and proper care, you can enjoy the benefits of hair extensions without compromising the health of your strands.
With the perfect extensions, your hair is not just a part of you, but a vibrant expression of your unique, shining essence.