If you're curious about hair extensions, there's never been a better time to try them out. They're practically part of the celebrity uniform now, as so many high-profile people have been seen sporting them at award shows, on TV, and in many other venues. Jessica Simpson, in partnership with her hairstylist, Ken Paves, has her own line of hair extensions, and Britney Spears, Eva Longoria, Tyra Banks, and many other top stars and models openly use them.

Not only are hair extensions more common now than they used to be, but the social taboo associated with wearing false hair is wearing thin. In the past, hair extensions were associated with illness?there are several diseases that cause hair thinning and hair loss, and generally women with these health issues were the most common users of hair extensions. Nowadays, however, with all its celebrity exposure, hair extensions are seen more as a trendy fashion accessory than as a way to cover thinning hair.

In addition, hair extensions are no longer a big commitment. In the past, hair extensions had to be glued or weaved into the hair in such a way as to cause significant damage to a woman's natural hair?and they couldn't be removed easily. Now, there are many brands of clip-in hair extensions that make application and removal a simple process?you don't even need a hairdresser. And with clip-in hair extensions, there's no damage to your natural hair.

Many people are surprised to hear that wigs are also growing in popularity as more celebrities openly wear them. Once associated mainly with cancer patients, wigs are now appearing more and more frequently in movies and on the red carpet. Jessica Simpson sported a stunning red wig at the NCLR ALMA awards, and among celebrities known to wear lace-front wigs are Beyonc?, Gwen Stefani, Li'l Kim, and Tyra Banks.

Wigs are a popular hair alternative because of the easy flexibility they provide. Wearing a curly wig or a wig of a drastically different color than your natural hair is not damaging?unlike perming or dying can be. It's also not permanent'so if you don't like the look, you're not stuck with it.

In addition, wigs can be styled in advance, making them less time-consuming to apply the day of a special event than hair extensions. Wigs, particularly lace-front wigs, are extremely popular with today's brides. They provide natural fullness, perfect roots, and gorgeous styling around the face in a much faster period of time than it would take to actually dye and style a bride's hair on the big day.

Both wigs and hair extensions are growing more and more common as they become easier to wear and maintain. They're now a great option for any woman looking to change her hair without a big commitment or styling damage. Chances are, you've seen them out and about more than you realize?and there's never been a better time to give them a try yourself.