Guide to Hair Extensions
By Beverly Smith
Have you noticed the amount of
celebrities who have all of a sudden grown long, flowing locks? The key to
their fabulous hair is the clever use of hair extensions, carefully
blended to match exactly with their own hair.
Hair extensions offer instant volume for limp tresses or emergency relief
from a disastrous haircut.
You can expect extensions to last up to three months.
Caring for hair extensions is a bit
different from caring for natural hair. Some things that you should know.
- Use a soft bristle brush and brush
your hair from the bottom and gently work your way up.
- Gently tie your hair up while
sleeping.
- Do not color your own hair extentions
at home.
- To prevent tangling, run your fingers
through the braid extensions.
- Don't spray your extensions with
conditioners or any silicone based products as they can cause the braids
to slip.
How long can extensions be?
You can have any length you want up to about 26"-30". Anything longer than
this puts extra weight on your scalp which may lead to uneven pressure and
damage to your own hair. The best looking hair extensions for average
height women are usually around 22" or less.
How much are they?
It's all relative. Someone will do it for you for a few hundred dollars
while others will charge thousands. Shop around, but remember that to get
the best possible product you will pay a premium price. However, your hair
will look great, it will last and you will feel terrific!
Can I wear my hair up?
Of course, the hair extensions should not be applied any lower than the
base of your scalp (approximately at the level of the middle of your ears)
and so your hair under this point covers the extensions while you wear it
in pigtails, ponytails, french braids etc.
Does it hurt?
No! If it hurts get out of there! The extensions artist should braid the
tracks firmly but comfortably. The tension should be even all over your
head with no points pulling or hurting. Do not put up with someone telling
you it has to be really tight in order to be secure. Pulling your hair out
is not the idea. You will know you have something on your head for the
first day or two but after that you won't even feel that they are there.