Everything you need to know about hair extensions
BY ADRIA VALDES GREENHAUFF
What do celebs like J. Lo, Kim
Kardashian, and Chrissy Teigan all have in common? Besides sharing a killer
fashion sense, these ladies are in on another Hollywood secret that lets them
constantly take their looks to the next level — hair extensions. How else do
you think so many starlets go from blunt bobs to extra-long, flowy mermaid
waves from one red carpet to the next?
Whether its adding extra
volume, length, or even trendy bangs, hair extensions are a great way to rock
different styles, without having to commit to a certain look for too long. The
good news: you don't have to be Beyoncé to have hair like a boss. In fact, all
you need is a little research to start. Luckily, I love researching and did
some digging for you, so read on for 10 things you should know before getting
your first set of hair extensions.
Real or synthetic?
Extensions are usually made in
two different ways — with real human hair or with synthetic material that's
made to emulate real hair. Each has its benefits and drawbacks. Human hair
extensions have a natural look and feel. They also have a certain shine and
movement that's difficult to recreate in synthetic hair. Plus, because its real
hair, natural hair extensions are easy to cut, style and blend with your own hair.
The downside? Human hair extensions aren't exactly cheap, costing anywhere from
$300 for partial hair extensions to add fullness, to $4,000 for full extensions
that add both length and volume.
Synthetic hair extensions, on
the other hand, can be a more affordable option, usually costing between $50
and $100. With advances in technology, synthetic hair has come a long way in
recent years, with newer options made with fibers that feel more like real
hair. One great thing about synthetic extensions is that most can be worn out
of the box. Plus, they hold up in bad weather because they don't frizz like
natural hair does. However, because of the strong fibers, synthetic extensions
are less versatile than human hair, taking more effort to change curl patterns.
They also don't last as long as human hair, typically requiring replacement
every 3-6 months.
So many options
Choosing between real or
synthetic hair isn't the only decision you have to make when it comes to your
hair extensions. You'll also have to decide which one of the four types of
extensions you'll be adding to your mane. "There are keratin-applied
extensions, weaves, taped, and glue-taped," Bianca Arussi, co-owner of
J'Adore Salon in Beverly Hills, told OK! magazine. According to the interview,
Arussi highly recommends the keratin process, which adheres the extensions to
your scalp using a keratin-based dry "glue" at one-end, and a
hot/cold drying treatment.
Consider your lifestyle
Think about your everyday
routine when considering hair extensions. Do you spend a lot of time out in the
sun? In the water? Do you often add a lot of heat to your locks with blowdryers
and flat irons? This could help in deciding which extensions are right for you.
"If you do a lot of hot yoga, the tape is not a good option—the keratin is
better," explains Monica Thornton, co-founder of RPZL in New York City,
the world's first hair-extension and blowout bar, in Forbes. "If you want
to change your color often, opt for the tape because the keratin is in there a
long time."
Select the right color
As much as those shiny blonde
locks may be calling your name, you should choose extensions that match your
natural hair color. This will not only look more natural right off the bat, but
the extensions will also blend better should you choose to dye your hair or add
highlights later on.
Permanent isn't always best
While permanent extensions can
look great, they aren't always the best option as they can end up damaging your
existing hair. "The most important thing is to avoid extensions and pieces
that are heavier than your own hair," Philip Pelusi of New York City's
Tela Salon told She Knows. "If extensions are too heavy, they will damage
and break off hair — so hair needs to be long and healthy enough to withstand
the pressure." Pelusi also suggests asking your stylist about getting a
variety of weights, because a single one may not work for everyone.
Go to an expert
If you do decide on permanent
hair extensions, don't trust just any hair stylist. Do your research and be
prepared to make an investment. This will ensure your end result not only looks
great, but also won't damage your hair in the long term.
Be prepared to spend a few
hours at the salon
Much like having your hair
colored, getting hair extensions is a process. Be prepared to spend 3-4 hours
at the salon on the day of your appointment.
Get your hair cut
It may sound counterintuitive,
especially because most people get extensions to make their hair appear longer,
but Arussi notes a post-extensions cut is the key to making your hair look as
natural and beautiful as possible.
Take care of your extensions
Whether you're rocking real or
fake hair, you need to maintain your locks if you want them to stay looking
gorgeous. "The natural oils of your hair will not reach the tips of your
extensions," Monica Thornton, co-founder of RPZL told InStyle.
"Proper care includes a daily brushing routine, hydration, and the use of
natural products that avoid drying chemicals."
When in doubt, go with
clip-ons
Hair extensions can be a big
commitment in both time and money. Before investing in permanent extensions,
play around with clip-ons. Available at most beauty supply stores, clip-on
extensions can be a good segway into permanent extensions as you get to see
what you look like with longer, fuller locks, experience how they feel, and
learn how to maintain them. What's even better, clip-ons are a fraction of the
cost of regular extensions.
SOURCE: THE LIST
SOURCE: THE LIST
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