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Hair extensions are a great way to experiment with a new look.
Often behind celebrities dramatic hair transformations, extensions allow anyone to go fromshoulder-length hairin the morning towaist-length wavesby dinnertime.
Although hair extensions are very popular, they can be confusing to navigate for first-timers.
@chrisweberhair/ Instagram
Hairstylist, Mel Moss, adds thatsynthetic and human hairextensions are the two main types.
Moss also emphasizes the importance of sourcing hair ethically.
The lack of industry regulation is wild," adds master stylist Stephanie Angelone.
“Synthetic hair is mostly what lower-end wigs and clip-ins are made of,” she says.
Synthetic extensions,wigsand clip-ins have come a long way and can vary in quality depending on the price.
Byrdie Tip
When shopping for extensions, watch out for silicones.
Some companies coat the hair in silicones, making the hair look shiny and soft.
As it wears off, the hair is more likely to get tangled and appear more dull.
Human Hair Extensions
Human hair varies greatly in quality and sourcing.
It is why we recommend knowing the terminology used to grade it if you’re shopping on your own.
“The non-Remy quality is typical of hair collected in bulk, whose cuticles are not naturally aligned.
Also, research reviews to see if the quality is consistent.”
If you’re sourcing hair on your own, here are some terms you may want to know.
Where does human hair come from?
Human hair can be sourced from live humans, fallen hair, and salon trimmings.
Human hair comes from many parts of the world, with the highest-producing countries being China andIndia.
According to Angelone, the most high-quality hair comes from Russia and India.
Moss also explains that some terms are used very broadly and can have subcategories and off-shoots.
In some cases, extension methods may have different names but are installed in the same way.
All three experts recommend consulting a professional to determine the best pop in of extensions for your hair.
Here are some of the most popular types of hair extensions.
Clip-Ins
Clip-in extensionsare a great option for those looking to temporarily add some length.
“Clip-ins are awesome for low-commitment extension wearers,” says Johns.
“you’re able to wear them just for a day or special occasion and then remove them.
If you take good care of them, they can last you a long time.”
“A new technique of clip-in hair extensions is the skin weft seam.
Wigs
Wigsare some of the most user-friendly options on this list.
They have long been the top choice for quick and dramatic hair transformations.
“Much like clip-ins, you’re not committed,” she says.
Sew-ins or Weaves
Sew-insare a classic punch in of extension and a great option for longterm wear.
Also called a weave, they are traditionally sewn into thenatural hairafter it was braided into cornrows.
“One of the newest and most popular hair extensions are the hand-tied weft,” says Angelone.
Sew-ins or weaves are not recommended for those with thin hair types.
Wefts of hair need to be securely anchored onto the natural hair for this extension to be securely installed.
In some cases, these extensions can feel heavy or causestrainon the scalp.
The extensions are aligned with the roots then glued to the natural hair.
These extensions requireremovalby a stylist to make it minimize damage made to the hair.
If they are well maintained, the hair can be reinstalled at the root after removal.
Beaded Rows
Beaded row extensionsare Moss’s favorite method.
This is one of the best extensions methods to help preservehair health.
Beaded rows provide a more full final look and are great for denser hair types, adds Johns.
The software of beaded wefts can also vary.
“They can be installed to hide the beads or not,” she says.
“They’re also great for special events and are less damaging than clip-ins.”
Microlinks
Microlinkextensions are done by attaching the extension to the hair using a tiny silicone bead.
The bead is then clamped into place using a special tool.
“RPZL also offers a high-tech cold fusion keratin bond hair extension.
“They use an ultra sound gun that creates a sound wave that melts the bond in seconds.
Not only is this healthier but its faster.”
The Final Takeaway
There are several ways and techniques to add hair extensions.
They are a great way to transform your look and try out a new color.
venture to ensure you source the hair from a reputable vendor.
It’s wise to enlist the help of a hairstylist for intricate installations and removal methods.
