Extensions aren’t just about adding volume or length to your hair anymore. Nowadays, an increasing number of people are experimenting with different hairstyles using extensions. Not just ordinary folks, even celebrities are choosing different colors, styles, and sizes of extensions for a new, improved look.
But some people still don’t know much about hair extensions and hesitate to use them. Most of the time, extensions may get a negative response because some people wear them wrong. But extensions are pretty easy to use and a handy fashion accessory during emergency outings.
In this article, you will learn about the basics of extensions, from the types there are to the reasons people use them.
There are various types of extensions
It is essential to study the variety of extensions to know which one best suits you. Typically, new users should start with temporary clip-in extensions as they are the easiest ones to use. Sown using a needle, weave extensions can last up to three months. Then there are keratin extensions wherein the extension is adhered to the scalp using dry glue. Other popular options include taped, glued, and halo extensions.
How to know if extensions are right for you
Extensions are a vital part of the global hair industry. Almost everyone at least experiments with extensions once in their lives. So, the chances of extensions being right for you are pretty high. However, to be absolutely sure, you can get extensions for reasons like the following.
- Your confidence needs a boost.
It is universally accepted that getting a haircut, a manicure, facial, or other beauty-related services can make you feel better. Extensions will do the same. People with thinning, scant, or short hair often use extensions to give themselves a confidence boost. Looking better can make them feel a lot better about themselves, improving their sense of self-worth.
- You can’t wait to grow out the bob cut.
If you’re regretting a bob haircut and can’t wait for your hair to grow out of it, extensions are the way to go. Use a type that disguises the haircut well until your hair reaches the ponytail stage. Then you can think about whether or not to continue using the extension.
- You want a new look.
If you want to know what you would look like with different colored hair without actually using hair dyes, you can try using an extension. You can also use wavy hair extensions on your naturally straight hair and change your whole look.
Getting the right color matters
While experimenting with different color extensions is normal, picking a shade that does not match your natural hair color even a little can be problematic. It can be a dead giveaway that you are wearing faux hair. Ideally, you should pick a color that matches the ends of your hair and not the roots. It is safest to pick a shade that is most prominent in your natural hair.
Extensions require maintenance
Regardless of the type of extensions you use, you need to wash them periodically to maintain them. For instance, you can wash clip-in extensions every six to eight uses. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, blot the extensions out on a towel to get rid of excess water, and let them air dry. If you’ve had these hair attachments for a long time, consider getting new ones.
Synthetic VS. real extensions
Hair extensions made using real hair are highly preferred as they give a natural look. However, they require higher maintenance as they can experience natural hair problems such as frizziness. Synthetic extensions are made from synthetic fibers and are more economical than real extensions. But if they are not of good quality, they may give a plastic-type of look to the hair.