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What Are the Different Kinds of Hair Extensions?
Before we get into the dos and don’ts of hair extensions, it’s important to note that there are different types of hair extensions. First of all, there are two main categories of hair extensions- human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. Human hair extensions are made from real human hair collected from a donor, while synthetic hair extensions are made out of various synthetic, blended fibres. They contain no human hair, but are made to imitate human hair. Here are three types of hair extensions you need to know about.
1. Clip-In Hair Extensions
Clip-in hair extensions are the least permanent type of hair extension, and ideal if you want to add length or volume to your hair for special occasions. You can put them on and take them off whenever you want, and they only take about 5 to 15 minutes to apply. They come in a strand of contoured pieces, attached at the base with fabric or silicone. Each clip snaps open easily, and all you have to do is clip the pieces to your natural hair!
2. Tape-In Hair Extensions
Tape-in hair extensions are pre-taped, then taped/glued together on either side of your hair. These types of extensions are applied by a hairdresser since they require a heated tool that heats up the glue. You also need to have them removed and reinstalled (you can re-use the same ones if they’re in good condition).
3. Sew-In Hair Extensions
Sew-in hair extensions, also known as weaves, are applied by braiding the natural hair into cornrows first, then using a needle and thread to sew the extensions into the cornrows. This is a very long process and is typically done on those with thicker hair. Sew-ins are applied by professionals and are the most permanent and seamless hair extensions of all.
Do's and Don’ts
of
Hair Extensions
1. Do wash your clip in extensions regularly
Just like real hair, hair extensions need to be cleaned and maintained. Wash your clip-ins every six to eight times you wear them- more often if you use a lot of product. Use shampoo and conditioner that’s free of sulfates and parabens, blot them with a towel and let them air dry.
2. Don’t sleep with wet hair
Make sure your hair is dry all the way through before going to sleep at night. Sleeping in damp or wet hair extensions can be a total nightmare, causing severe tangles, knots and matting. Once your hair is dry, make sure to brush your hair right before going to bed to keep it from knotting while you sleep.
3. Do schedule appointments to maintain your extensions
Unfortunately, extensions don’t look so good when they’re grown out. Depending on the extensions you choose, they only last for a certain amount of time. If your hair extensions are meant to last six weeks, don’t wear them for three months. This can weigh down your hair, leading to damage and breakage.
4. Don’t skimp on quality
If there’s one thing you should splurge on, it’s good quality hair extensions. Synthetic extensions are more affordable, but they can tend to look shiny and unnatural. The goal is for hair extensions to look as natural as possible so it’s worth it to pay more for extensions that blend in flawlessly and look like your real hair. Quality is never something to be skimped on when it comes to extensions!