The use of hair extensions can cover a range of things with the most common being to add length to hair but what many people aren't aware of is that you can use hair extensions to add volume and colour and even layers to your hair. They can be used to create a wide range of styles and can be worn on a permanent basis or a temporary basis depending on your situation.
Hair extensions, believe it or not, have actually been around since the 1980's but it is only recently that we have truly embraced them and now it seems more and more people are turning to them in the hope for a dramatic new look. If you are one of these people you will no doubt know all there is to know about hair extensions; however if you are new to the trend, never fear this guide is here to get you started with all of your hair extension facts; we'll turn you into an expert in no time.
First and foremost if you are considering hair extensions get yourself down to your stylist now and book a consultation. Discussing your hair extensions is one of the most important factors involved in the process. They aren't suitable for anyone so talk to your stylist about why you want them and the types that are available to you. Your stylist will be able to advise you one whether they would suit you as well as whether your hair is in the best condition to have them applied.
You can get hair extensions in any size that you want up to 26" or 30" even though having them this long isn't advised for a number of reasons such as the hair will be about eight or ten years old so the quality of it will be lost slightly, also anything as long as this will put extra weight on your scalp, which can lead to uneven pressure and could damage your hair. The best length for a woman of average height is between 18" and 22" however 18" is what seems to be the most popular length.
All hair extensions start off very dark until the colour is stripped from the hair. It is then re-tined, which is done using fabric dye as oppose to hair dye. They are tined to all the shades that are available, meaning whatever your hair colour you will find extensions that match. The only disadvantage to this process is the extensions will have already gone through a high chemical process so trying to dye the hair extensions will make them fall apart, which is why it is important that when you get your hair extensions you choose the colour that you really want.
If you are thinking about getting hair extensions it is highly important that you speak to your stylist and that you get your extensions applied and removed by a specialist otherwise you are running the risk of damaging your natural hair.
A lot of people are worried about getting hair extensions applied as they are under the impression that doing so will ruin their natural hair. The only way that this will happen is if your stylist doesn't know what they are doing! Hair extensions should be a safe process that leaves you hair in the same condition it was in when you first had the extensions applied.
The amount of time that you hair extensions will last depends on if you take the correct after care procedures and also the rate at which your hair grows. You will need to re-visit your salon about every six to eight weeks to have your extensions looked at and if needed replaced. This is because as your hair grows the bounds of the extensions will get lower down your head so the bounds will need to be taken out and then put back in at your roots.
As well as your extensions not damaging your natural hair they also shouldn't hurt when they are being applied. If you are in pain when your extensions are being applied your hairdresser isn't applying them correctly. If you do feel pain when you are having your extensions applied you should always notify your stylist as you are running the risk of not only damaging your hair but also damaging your scalp if you say nothing. Your stylist should braid your extension tracks firmly but comfortably to your natural hair. You will feel tension when they are being applied but this tension should be even across your head so that you aren't in any pain. Once your extensions have been applied your head and hair will feel different for about the first two days; it will most likely make your hair feel heavier but once two days have passed your extensions will feel just like your normal hair.
When your hair extensions are being applied your stylist should not place them any lower than the base of your scalp, say about the middle of your ears. The reason that they are not applied any lower than this is so that your hair under this point covers the extensions if you want to wear your hair tied back or in styles such as French braids or French twists. This allows your extensions to be versatile and means that it really will feel just like your natural hair. Basically you will be able to create any style that you wish with your hair extensions in as you will just have to treat them exactly the same as you would treat your own hair.
Treating them exactly how you would treat your own hair also applies to the after care of your extensions, you should however use a mild shampoo and a strong conditioner when you are washing them as this will keep them in the best possible condition.
One worry that many people have when it comes to hair extensions is whether they will be able to wear their extensions whilst on holiday. You are free to keep your hair extensions in whilst you are on holiday as long as you take care. Getting your hair extensions wet will soften the bonds on them, which is why it is important that you dry your hair as soon as you can as having wet hair will put increased pressure on the bounds of your hair. Also you need to take care where chlorine is concerned as this can also damage your extensions. If you are wearing your extensions whilst on holiday it is advised that you tie your hair back and you use UV protection when sunbathing.
Carolyn Clayton has sinced written about articles on various topics from Accountancy Journal, Legal Matters and Adventure Travel. Helen is the web master of Inanch, specialists in applying and removing . Carolyn Clayton's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.