Planning to Get Hair Extensions? What to Keep in Mind

If you are bored with your short hair and want a fresh, new hairstyle, then getting hair extensions is your best option. They’re a perfect confidence booster as they make your hair look thicker and longer. However, some people are still hesitant to use hair extensions out of fear that it will damage their hair. We can’t deny that some ladies have had bad experiences with extensions, but that’s only because they didn’t use the right type or they didn’t know how to maintain them. Hair extensions need regular maintenance and certain hair products and brushes. Before you buy your first hair extension set, make sure that you know how to take care of it to avoid damaging your hair. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.

Types of Hair Extensions

There are different types of hair extensions and each type needs a specific routine to take care of it. The most popular types are the clip-in, tape-in, and micro link.

Clip-ins

Clip-ins hair extension is the most common type as they are easy to use and you can apply it yourself. Clip-ins need medium-density hair as you clip those extensions to your hair. They’re ideal for people who want a reusable extension for occasions and special events. This type causes the least damaged when applied properly, as they don’t need any glue to stick to your hair. However, if you wear it for too long, sleep with it, or apply it incorrectly, the extensions can pull on your hair and cause hair loss. Clip-ins hair extensions can last up to one year with good care

Tape-in

Unlike clip-ins, tape-in hair extensions need to be applied by a professional as they have to be placed closed to the roots. They are not reusable like clip-in extensions; once they’re in, you cannot remove them unless you no longer need them. If not applied properly, tape-ins hair extensions can be hard to style, especially in a braid or a ponytail. If you want to know more about applying tape-ins, you can click here to learn everything about maintaining tape-ins and how to wear them. These extensions come with double-sided keratin tape that sticks to your hair with special glue. You put your hair between the two tapes and stick it together so it doesn’t fall when you brush or wash it. Tape-in hair extension can last up to 6 months with regular care and maintenance.

Micro Link

Micro link is also known as a micro bead, is the most sophisticated type of hair extensions yet they can hardly be detected. Micro links don’t use any glues. Usually, the technique involves aluminum or copper tubes to attach the extension to the hair, which makes the process take up to 2 hours to apply. Micro links are applied strand by strand and they need regular maintenance as well as retouches every 5 to 8 weeks. The first few days after getting micro links can be irritating to the scalp but the itch will go away and you’ll get used to the feeling of the extensions.

Brushing

Some people believe that if they get natural hair extensions, they can treat it just like their natural hair. However, no matter what type of extensions you got, you should treat them with care and use the proper brushes for it. Clip-in can be brushed with a regular brush, but tape-ins and micro links need a certain brush for extensions or you’ll risk damaging your hair and scalp.

Washing

If you’re willing to have extensions, then be prepared to change your hair washing routine. If you have clip-ins you can safely remove them and wash them every 15 to 20 years, or if you feel that there is product buildup on them. You can use any shampoo you regularly use if you’re using natural hair. However, when it comes to tape-ins or micro-links, you should be careful when and how to wash them. Tape-ins usually contain glue, so you need to wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. You can ask your hair salon for the best type of shampoo for your extensions to ensure that they stay for a long time.

Drying

When you have extensions on, you can’t let your hair dry all by itself. You have to make sure that once you wash it, you blow dry it until it’s completely dry. Wet extensions can put pressure on the hair strand and damage it. In case you have tape-ins extensions, you should blow-dry section by section. Start by drying your hair scalp, then the extension, then the hair, and so on until every part is completely dry.

Cost

The cost of hair extensions differs from one type to another. It also differs whether you’re getting natural hair or not. Natural hair is usually more expensive than synthetic ones, and that’s mainly because you can treat it just like your hair. Synthetic hair extensions need special care and maintenance. If you’re willing to get natural hair extensions, make sure that it’s 100% natural by reading reviews and feedback.

Getting hair extensions is not as easy as getting a new haircut. With a haircut, all you have to do is head to the salon and show your hairdresser a picture of the hairstyle you want. But, with hair extensions, there are a lot of things that you will need to do to keep them in place and take care of them. You have to use special shampoos, conditioners, and brushes so you can enjoy them for a long time. Otherwise, you might risk damaging your hair or your scalp. Before getting extensions, make sure that they’re suitable for your hair type. Getting tape-in when you have weak hair might put too much pressure on your hair strands and cause hair loss. Ask your hairstylist what type of extensions would be most suitable for you, and how to safely remove them without pulling your hair out. Last but not least, keep in mind that some types can only be applied and removed by a professional.