Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are one of the most popular items in the beauty industry today. Their trend is prominently displayed in beauty shows around the world. With the growing demand of celebrities singing the praises of hair extensions, people are clamoring to turn heads with their new flowing locks. In response to the demand, new salons that offer hair extension services are popping up constantly. Specialist compete to come up with the best new technologies in hair extensions.

Hair extensions are lengths of synthetic or real hair affixed close to the scalp. They can give thin hair volume, change the texture of hair, add lengths overnight, and provide lowlights and highlights without harsh chemical color treatments.



Depending on the quality of the hair used the extensions can last from anywhere up to three months before maintenance is required. When done by a competent extensionist, hair extensions mix and move naturally with the clients real hair, making it difficult to detect where the real hair ends and the extensions begin.

All hair extension are not the same. Synthetic hair is actually plastic and will melt when exposed to heat. Usually bought in department stores, synthetic hair already comes in a style and should never be curled, set are colored. Human hair extensions, on the other hand, can be styled like natural hair and blends seamlessly with the clients real hair. Natural hair extensions are generally purchased and applied in a salon and are much pricier than their synthetic counterparts.

The technique used to apply the hair extensions depends on the hair of the client. There are braids, corn row methods, bonding with a latex plug and glue, metal tubing, heat shrinking tubing, and adhesive based fusion. Different methods are suitable for thin hair, straight hair, thinning hair and hair that is damaged. What will work well for one hair type may not work for another.

The end results of a hair extension style depend heavily on the skill level of the stylist. An inexperienced stylist can permanently damage the clients natural hair. No matter how skilled the stylist and how beautiful the job there is always a visible point of attachment where the extension meets the natural hair. Since there are no regulations or standards imposed on stylist who apply hair extensions, clients should make certain they have a qualified technician who understand how to protect the natural hair and blending techniques to produce a quality end product.

The stylist should also know how to cut and place the extensions for the most natural results. Hand on training classes are available for the various methods. Find a qualified extensionist who is a licensed cosmetologist, also certified in hair extension techniques.